Food Runner Salary in Wilmington, NC
Food Runners in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $15.23 per hour, which translates to about $609.20 per week, $2,639.87 per month, and $31,678.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the local restaurant and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Food Runner in Wilmington can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview of earnings based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.66 | $426.40 | $1,844.80 | $22,169.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.29 | $571.60 | $2,463.87 | $29,723.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.64 | $825.60 | $3,564.27 | $42,931.20 |
Do Food Runners in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Wilmington, they can make an extra around $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and the volume of customers served, significantly boosting their total earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Wilmington, NC vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $14.62 per hour, translating to approximately $30,409.60 yearly.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Wilmington earn slightly more per hour at $15.23 and a bit higher yearly total at $31,678.40. This reflects the local demand and cost of living factors in Wilmington.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer competitive pay rates for Food Runners, including:
- Downtown Wilmington: $17.50 per hour
- Wrightsville Beach: $16.80 per hour
Working in Downtown Wilmington tends to offer the highest pay, likely due to higher customer traffic and upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Wilmington, NC?
There are several factors affecting how much a Food Runner can earn in Wilmington:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners typically earn higher wages.
- Skills and Speed: Efficiency and the ability to manage multiple orders can impact salary and tips.
- Establishment Type: Upscale restaurants often pay more, while casual or fast food places may pay less.
- Shift Timing: Working evenings or weekends might include higher pay or increased tips.
- Local Demand: Areas with more tourist traffic generally offer better wages.
How To Become a Food Runner in Wilmington, NC
Becoming a Food Runner requires minimal formal training but taking some steps can improve your employability and salary prospects.
Consider enrolling in the Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program to gain foundational knowledge of the food service industry. Additionally, the UNC Wilmington Hospitality Management Program provides beneficial education for those aiming to advance.
Certification also matters. Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures you understand food safety practices, a common requirement. For establishments serving alcohol, North Carolina Alcohol Server Training is necessary.
Gaining practical experience through entry-level roles and demonstrating reliability will help you progress.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Wilmington, NC
Several well-known employers actively seek Food Runners in Wilmington, including:
- Chili's
- Epicurean Bistro
- Holiday Inn Wrightsville Beach Resort
Establishments That Food Runners in Wilmington Work At
Food Runners commonly find jobs in these types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work and modest pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Can offer hourly wages with tips and opportunities for advancement.
- Resorts and Hotels: Typically offer better pay and benefits due to larger volume and hospitality standards.
- Fine Dining: May provide higher tips but often require more precision and speed.
The type of establishment affects the pay rate, workload, and tipping potential significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington, NC for Food Runners
If you are interested in roles related to being a Food Runner, consider these similar positions that share skills and work environments.
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Server roles, all of which involve customer service and food handling skills relevant to Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Wilmington, NC
Food Runners should be well-informed about applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper workplace rights and compliance.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and workplace standards can be found on the North Carolina Department of Labor website.
- Local government resources for Wilmington are available via the City of Wilmington official website.