Food Runner Salary in Tacoma, WA
Food Runners in Tacoma, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Tacoma is growing at a healthy rate of 5% per year, indicating an expanding job market in this role throughout the region and promising opportunities for job seekers.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Tacoma, WA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Tacoma varies widely based on experience and specific employer policies. Here's an overview of typical earnings for entry-level, mid-level, and top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Tacoma Earn Tips?
Food Runners in Tacoma typically do not earn tips directly. Their earnings generally come from their hourly wage, as they assist with food delivery from kitchen to guests rather than providing full table service.
Food Runner Salary in Tacoma vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners average around $14.50 per hour, or about $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Tacoma earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $13.90 and annual earnings close to $28,912. This difference may reflect local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tacoma for Food Runners
Exploring nearby neighborhoods reveals some of the highest pay opportunities for Food Runners around Tacoma:
- Downtown Tacoma: $15.50 per hour
- North End: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners working in North End enjoy some of the highest wages in the region, while Downtown Tacoma also offers competitive pay compared to the city average.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Tacoma?
The salary of a Food Runner in Tacoma is influenced by several key factors that can affect earning potential and career growth.
Experience and Tenure: Those with more years of working as Food Runners or in similar roles typically command higher wages due to their efficiency and reliability.
Skills and Certifications: Additional skills such as knowledge of food safety or guest interaction skills add value to the role.
Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants and hotels may offer better pay and benefits compared to fast-food or casual dining venues.
Shift and Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts often carry premium pay rates.
How To Become a Food Runner in Tacoma
Becoming a Food Runner in Tacoma involves laying some groundwork through education, certification, and experience.
Culinary Arts Program at Bates Technical College: This comprehensive program covers food preparation, kitchen safety, and customer service, providing a valuable foundation for Food Runners.
Hospitality Management Program at Tacoma Community College: Focused on hospitality industry operations, this program includes coursework beneficial for understanding restaurant dynamics and customer relations.
Required Certifications: Most Food Runners in Washington State must have a Washington State Food Worker Card, confirming they have been trained in food safety practices.
Additionally, if working in establishments serving alcohol, a MAST (Mandatory Alcohol Server Training) Permit is required to handle beverages safely and legally.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Tacoma
Several well-known companies actively hire Food Runners in Tacoma:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Tacoma Work At
Food Runners in Tacoma are typically employed across a variety of food service establishments, including:
- Fast Food and Quick Service: Lower wages but higher turnover create consistent demand for Food Runners.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer moderate wages with more guest interaction opportunities.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: Higher pay and potential for tips, but also higher performance expectations.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: Often provide steady hours and benefits along with competitive salaries.
The nature of the establishment directly impacts pay levels, work environment, and growth potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tacoma for Food Runners
Those interested in similar roles within the hospitality industry might consider these related positions, which share overlapping skills and career paths.
These include Busser, Cashier, and Backwaiter, all of which involve supporting roles in food service that can serve as stepping stones or complementary career options.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Tacoma
Food Runners in Tacoma must comply with federal, state, and local labor laws, which govern wages, working hours, and workplace safety.
- Refer to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries for state-specific labor standards and employment rights.
- For federal labor regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive resources.
- The City of Tacoma official website offers local ordinances and employment resources relevant to workers and employers alike.