Food Runner Salary in Thornton, CO
Food Runners in Thornton, CO, 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 Thornton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for those interested in this role within the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Food Runner in Thornton can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview across different experience levels.
| 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 | $2,438.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Thornton Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips in addition to their base salary, which can amount to roughly an extra $5 to $10 per hour depending on the establishment and shift. This tip income can significantly supplement their overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Thornton vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn about $14.50 per hour, or approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Thornton earn slightly less, at about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually. This difference can reflect regional cost of living and market demand differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton, CO for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer the following hourly rates for Food Runners:
- Aurora, CO: $15.50 per hour
- Boulder, CO: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners willing to commute to Boulder or Aurora may find higher pay opportunities compared to Thornton.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Thornton?
Several key factors can influence how much a Food Runner earns in Thornton:
- Experience Level: More experienced Food Runners tend to command higher wages due to efficiency and familiarity with restaurant operations.
- Skills and Speed: Those who are quick, organized, and maintain excellent communication with kitchen and serving staff can earn better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale, fine-dining restaurants typically pay more than fast-casual or quick-service setups.
- Shift Times: Evening or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials or higher tips.
- Location and Cost of Living: Local economic conditions in Thornton impact wage levels compared to other cities.
How To Become a Food Runner in Thornton
To start a career as a Food Runner in Thornton, consider these steps:
- Gain Basic Food Handling Knowledge: Understanding food safety is essential in this role.
- Obtain Food Protection Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certificate or Colorado Food Protection Certificate help demonstrate proficiency and meet employer requirements.
- Develop Communication and Organizational Skills: These skills are vital for efficiently coordinating orders between the kitchen and dining area.
- Apply to Local Restaurants and Food Service Establishments: Entry-level positions are widely available at casual dining and fast-casual restaurants.
Schools and culinary institutes may offer introductory courses in food service and hospitality that could enhance employment prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Thornton
Some popular employers actively hiring Food Runners in Thornton include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Thornton Work At
Food Runners typically work across various types of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay with consistent hours, a common type of employer.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often pay slightly less base wage but may offer faster-paced work and decent tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These often pay higher wages and offer better tip opportunities.
The choice of establishment significantly affects overall earnings for Food Runners, with fine dining generally offering the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton, CO for Food Runners
If you're exploring careers similar to Food Runner, consider these closely related positions:
These include Busser, Fry Cook, and Server positions, which share overlapping duties and career pathways with Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Thornton
Food Runners should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Thornton and Colorado.
- For local labor regulations and minimum wage details, visit the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment website.
- For federal labor standards and employment rights, check the U.S. Department of Labor.