Food Runner Salary in Surprise, AZ
Food Runners in Surprise, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $15.29 per hour, which equates to about $611.60 per week, $2,650.27 per month, and $31,803.20 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Surprise is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and an expanding opportunity landscape for those seeking to enter or advance in this role.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Surprise, AZ?
The salary of a Food Runner in Surprise varies depending on experience and skills. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.35 | $574.00 | $2,483.67 | $29,796.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.29 | $611.60 | $2,650.27 | $31,803.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.39 | $655.60 | $2,814.13 | $33,531.20 |
Do Food Runners in Surprise Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips in addition to their base pay. On average, they can make an extra $3 to $5 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. This extra income can noticeably supplement their overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Surprise vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $18.49 per hour, translating to around $38,459.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Surprise earn a somewhat lower hourly wage of $15.29 and a yearly salary of approximately $31,803.20. This difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and market demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Surprise for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer varying salary levels for Food Runners:
- Phoenix: $23.40 per hour
- Chandler: $18.33 per hour
Food Runners seeking higher wages might consider exploring options in Phoenix, where pay scales are more competitive.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Surprise?
Several factors can influence how much a Food Runner earns in Surprise, AZ:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Food Runners who efficiently manage their tasks and support floor operations tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Earnings vary between casual dining, fast casual, fine dining, and high-volume restaurants, with upscale or busy venues often paying more.
- Location: Restaurants in busier areas or those located closer to Phoenix typically offer better pay.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might include tip bonuses or shift premiums.
- Additional Responsibilities: Food Runners who take on extra duties such as assisting servers or maintaining cleanliness might receive higher compensation.
How To Become a Food Runner in Surprise
To start a career as a Food Runner in Surprise, consider these steps:
- Earn Relevant Certificates: Obtaining a Food Handler's Card and Alcohol Server Certification can be essential to meet employer requirements.
- Complete Hospitality Courses: Programs like the Food Service Management Certificate and Hospitality Management Program offered by local community colleges provide valuable skills relevant to Food Runners.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Starting in entry-level roles at restaurants helps develop familiarity with serving protocols and restaurant flow.
- Develop Soft Skills: Strong communication and customer service skills enhance job performance and opportunities for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Surprise
Several well-known establishments in Surprise regularly hire Food Runners, including:
- Chili's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Sheraton
Establishments That Food Runners in Surprise Work At
Food Runners work in a variety of dining venues, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often offer stable shifts and moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically provide faster-paced work with variable tips.
- Fine Dining: Food Runners here may earn higher tips and wages due to the premium service standards.
- Hotel Restaurants and Banquet Halls: These venues often require Food Runners for large events and may offer higher pay during busy seasons.
The type of establishment greatly affects the salary and tipping potential of Food Runners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Surprise for Food Runners
If you are considering allied careers within hospitality and food services, some related roles to Food Runner include:
These roles include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Busser, which share similar work environments and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Surprise
Food Runners should be familiar with local and federal labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Visit the Arizona official government website for details on state labor laws, minimum wage, and workplace regulations.
- For federal labor standards and employment rights, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.