Food Runner Salary in Tulsa, OK
Food Runners in Tulsa, OK, 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 Tulsa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and expanding opportunities in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Tulsa, OK?
The salary of a Food Runner in Tulsa can vary with experience and the employer, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Tulsa Earn Tips?
Food Runners often do earn tips, supplementing their income by delivering excellent customer service. They can typically make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, though this varies by establishment and shift.
Food Runner Salary in Tulsa 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 Tulsa make slightly less hourly at $13.90 per hour, with an annual salary of $28,912. This modest difference reflects regional cost-of-living and demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tulsa for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer higher pay rates for Food Runners, including:
- Downtown Tulsa: $15.50 per hour
- Brookside: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners willing to work in these neighborhoods may earn a premium above the city average.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Tulsa?
Several factors can affect how much a Food Runner earns in Tulsa:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners tend to command higher wages due to their efficiency and reliability.
- Skills: Strong communication, multitasking, and customer service skills improve earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or busy venues often pay better and provide more tip opportunities.
- Work Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may include shift differentials or higher tips.
- Local Demand: Areas with high foot traffic and tourism can provide more job openings and better pay.
How To Become a Food Runner in Tulsa
To start a career as a Food Runner in Tulsa, consider taking these steps:
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs such as Tulsa Community College Culinary Arts Program and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program offer valuable foundational skills.
- Acquire Food Safety Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of essential food safety practices, a common employer requirement.
- Obtain Required Permits: If serving alcohol is involved, an Oklahoma Alcohol Server Permit may be necessary.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles in food service can provide on-the-job training to prepare for Food Runner positions.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Tulsa
Some of the prominent employers recruiting Food Runners in Tulsa include:
- Chili's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Food Runners in Tulsa Work At
Food Runners typically work in a range of food service establishments, each influencing salary and tipping potential:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Common workplaces that offer steady hourly wages and moderate tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These may pay slightly less per hour but often have a higher volume of customers, affecting tip income.
- Upscale Dining Venues: Food Runners in these settings usually earn more through higher base pay and generous tipping.
- Hotels and Catering Facilities: Opportunities to work in larger establishments with potential for tip pooling and benefits.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence a Food Runner’s total earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tulsa for Food Runners
If you’re interested in careers similar to Food Runner, the following positions might be relevant:
These include Server, Fry Cook, and Dishwasher roles, which share some duties and offer pathways within food service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Tulsa
Food Runners should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and earnings:
- Detailed information on Oklahoma-specific labor laws and worker rights can be found at the official Oklahoma government website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website provides federal regulations on wages, overtime, and employment standards relevant to Food Runners.