Food Runner Salary in Vancouver, WA
Food Runners in Vancouver, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.75 per hour, which translates to about $750 per week, $3,250 per month, and $39,000 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Vancouver is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in this hospitality role.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Vancouver, WA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Vancouver can vary depending on experience, establishment, and other factors. Below is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,686.67 | $32,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.75 | $750.00 | $3,250.00 | $39,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
Do Food Runners in Vancouver Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips in addition to their base salary, typically averaging an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment's tipping culture.
Food Runner Salary in Vancouver vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $17.50 per hour, translating to approximately $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national averages, Food Runners in Vancouver earn slightly more, at around $18.75 per hour and $39,000 per year, indicating a competitive wage for the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Vancouver for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer the following higher wages for Food Runners:
- Downtown Vancouver: $20.50 per hour
- Fisher's Landing: $21.00 per hour
These upticks in pay reflect localized demand and the presence of larger or more upscale establishments.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Vancouver?
Several key factors influence how much a Food Runner earns in Vancouver:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Food Runners with efficient speed and strong communication often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and event centers tend to offer better pay compared to casual or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timings: Evening and weekend shifts may offer higher wages due to demand.
- Tips and Service Quality: In locations where tipping is customary, exceptional customer service can significantly boost total earnings.
How To Become a Food Runner in Vancouver
To pursue a career as a Food Runner in Vancouver, consider these steps:
- Acquire Food Safety Certifications: Obtain certificates such as the Washington State Food Worker Card and ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which are often required and improve employability.
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs like the Clark College Culinary Arts Program or Portland Community College Hospitality and Tourism Program provide solid foundations for food service roles.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level food service jobs helps build necessary skills and customer interaction experience.
- Develop Strong Communication and Physical Stamina: These qualities are essential for efficiently delivering food and coordinating with kitchen and wait staff.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Vancouver
Some of the notable employers currently hiring Food Runners in Vancouver include:
- Cinetopia
- Brick House Bar & Grill
- Buffalo Wild Wings
Establishments That Food Runners in Vancouver Work At
Food Runners in Vancouver find opportunities in various types of establishments, each affecting salary differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Common venues that usually offer steady shifts and average pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have a faster pace and may pay slightly less but provide flexible hours.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Tend to pay higher wages and may offer opportunities for tips and advancement.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: Can provide top salaries and more tips but usually require higher service standards.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence the Food Runner's overall salary and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Vancouver for Food Runners
If you're interested in roles similar to Food Runner, consider exploring positions that offer transferable skills and growth opportunities.
These include Busser, Cashier, and Backwaiter positions, which share similar work environments and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Vancouver
It is essential for Food Runners to understand the legal and financial landscape affecting their work.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries for comprehensive information on state labor laws, workplace rights, and safety regulations.
- For federal tax information and guidelines, the Internal Revenue Service website offers detailed resources.