Food Runner Salary in Suffolk, VA
Food Runners in Suffolk, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $15.38 per hour, which translates to about $615.20 per week, $2,665.87 per month, and $31,990.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Suffolk is growing steadily at about 10% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market in the restaurant and hospitality industry within the area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Suffolk, VA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Suffolk varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown by experience levels for a clearer view of typical earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.38 | $615.20 | $2,665.87 | $31,990.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.27 | $730.80 | $3,146.80 | $37,910.40 |
Do Food Runners in Suffolk Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do earn tips as part of their income, with many receiving an additional approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and customer generosity. Tips can be a significant supplement to their base salary.
Food Runner Salary in Suffolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18.49 per hour, translating to about $38,459.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Suffolk earn a bit less, at the average hourly of $15.38 per hour and an annual salary of $31,990.40. This gap can be influenced by the local cost of living and the type of dining establishments predominant in Suffolk.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Suffolk for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Food Runners:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Harbour View: $17.00 per hour
Working in these surrounding areas may provide better pay opportunities for Food Runners willing to commute from Suffolk.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Suffolk?
Several factors influence the salary a Food Runner might earn in Suffolk, including:
- Experience and work speed: More proficient Food Runners who work quickly and efficiently can earn more through tips and better positions.
- Skills and customer service: Good communication and friendly service enhance the customer experience, often resulting in increased tips.
- Type of establishment: High-end restaurants tend to offer higher base pay and better tipping potential than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift hours: Working busy dinner shifts or weekends often results in stronger tip earnings.
How To Become a Food Runner in Suffolk
Starting a career as a Food Runner typically does not require formal education, but some programs and certifications can improve job prospects.
- Consider enrolling in the Culinary Arts Program at Tidewater Community College to gain foundational knowledge of kitchen operations and food handling.
- The Hospitality Management Program at Paul D. Camp Community College is helpful for those aiming to advance into supervisory food service roles.
- Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrates knowledge of food safety, which is valued by employers.
- The Certified Restaurant Server (CRS) credential can enhance customer service skills and credibility.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Suffolk
Several well-known restaurant chains are regularly seeking Food Runners in Suffolk, including:
- Applebee's
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Food Runners in Suffolk Work At
Food Runners are vital staff members in a variety of dining establishments such as:
- Casual dining restaurants: Often the most common employers, offering steady hours and reliable wages.
- Fast casual chains: These can offer a fast-paced environment with moderate pay.
- Fine dining venues: Typically offering higher wages and better tips due to upscale clientele.
- Hotel restaurants and resorts: These may provide higher salaries and benefits but could require more formal hospitality knowledge.
The type of establishment directly influences both the base salary and the tipping potential for Food Runners in Suffolk.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Suffolk for Food Runners
If you are exploring career options similar to Food Runner, consider these related roles that share overlapping skills and often similar work environments:
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Server roles, each providing diverse opportunities within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Suffolk
Food Runners should be aware of federal and state labor laws that govern wages and employee rights to ensure fair working conditions and proper tax reporting.
- Federal labor laws and employment information can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Virginia Employment Commission's site at https://www.vec.virginia.gov offers state-specific labor laws and job resources.