Food Runner Salary in Virginia Beach, VA
Food Runners in Virginia Beach, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $20.85 per hour, which translates to about $834.00 per week, $3,614.00 per month, and $43,368.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Virginia Beach is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Virginia Beach, VA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Virginia Beach varies based on experience and employer, but below is an overview of typical earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.41 | $496.40 | $2,142.67 | $23,936.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.85 | $834.00 | $3,614.00 | $43,368.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $43.89 | $1,755.60 | $7,619.60 | $91,187.20 |
Do Food Runners in Virginia Beach Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically earn some tips, often averaging around an extra $5 to $10 per hour depending on the establishment and customer volume. This can substantially increase their overall income on busy days, making tips an important component of their earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Virginia Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $18.97 per hour, which amounts to approximately $39,457.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Virginia Beach earn slightly more at about $20.85 per hour and $43,368.00 annually, reflecting competitive wages in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Virginia Beach for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Food Runners:
- Arlington: $21.20 per hour
- Fairfax: $19.81 per hour
Food Runners may find better compensation in Arlington compared to Fairfax, though Virginia Beach maintains solid pay levels within these nearby locales.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Virginia Beach?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Food Runner in Virginia Beach:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Food Runners generally negotiate better pay and receive more tips.
- Skills and Efficiency: Fast, reliable service and good communication skills can lead to increased tips and higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy venues often pay higher wages and provide better tips compared to casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Working peak hours, evenings, or weekends can increase earning potential through tips and shift differentials.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with a vibrant tourism sector, such as Virginia Beach, often have more opportunities and higher pay.
How To Become a Food Runner in Virginia Beach
To start a career as a Food Runner in Virginia Beach, consider these steps:
- Get Basic Culinary Training: Programs like the Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program offer foundational skills useful for food service roles.
- Enroll in Hospitality Courses: Institutions such as Virginia Beach Technical and Career Education Center provide practical courses tailored to quick employment in food service.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of important safety standards.
- Learn Responsible Beverage Service: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is valuable for working in establishments serving alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or internships at local restaurants can help build the necessary skills to excel.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach features several popular chains and restaurants actively hiring Food Runners, including:
- Chili's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Bartaco
Establishments That Food Runners in Virginia Beach Work At
Food Runners typically find jobs in various types of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady shifts with moderate pay and steady tips.
- Fast-Casual Restaurants: Usually have faster-paced work but may offer slightly lower wages due to self-service elements.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: These establishments often offer higher base pay and more substantial tips, rewarding efficient and professional Food Runners.
- Event Venues and Banquet Halls: Sometimes provide seasonal or event-driven opportunities with varying wage scales.
The kind of establishment can significantly affect both the base salary and the tipping potential for Food Runners, so choosing the right workplace is crucial for maximizing income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Virginia Beach for Food Runners
If you are interested in related roles within the hospitality sector that share similar skills with Food Runners, consider the following positions which may offer career growth or lateral opportunities.
These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Dishwasher, all integral roles within the hospitality and food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Virginia Beach
Food Runners should stay informed about labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and manage their employment conditions effectively.
- For federal employment laws and guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific Virginia labor laws, workplace regulations, and assistance can be found on the Virginia state government website.