ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Food Running Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Special Event Services Inc

Food Runner

San Diego, CA · On-site

Some examples include, setting up tents, grills, fryers, running a POS system and taking orders, cooking food, running food and other various tasks as assigned. If you're friendly, hard-working, and ...

Special Event Services Inc

Food Runner

San Diego, CA · On-site

Some examples include, setting up tents, grills, fryers, running a POS system and taking orders, cooking food, running food and other various tasks as assigned. If you're friendly, hard-working, and ...

Special Event Services Inc

Food Runner

San Diego, CA · On-site

Some examples include, setting up tents, grills, fryers, running a POS system and taking orders, cooking food, running food and other various tasks as assigned. If you're friendly, hard-working, and ...

The Brooklyn Pizza Company

Be Seen First

Food Runner

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$400 - $800/wk

Previous expediting or food running experience is a major plus!

Clive Collective

Food Runner

Belvedere Tiburon, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness of all food running stations * Perform additional responsibilities as directed by management to support overall operations

Burma Inc

Food Runner

Oakland, CA · On-site

$17.34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Keep food running station clean and organized at all ties * Safely and neatly package leftovers and to-go items * Promote an atmosphere of teamwork by assisting front of house team members including ...

Burma Inc

Food Runner

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Keep food running station clean and organized at all ties * Safely and neatly package leftovers and to-go items * Promote an atmosphere of teamwork by assisting front of house team members including ...

Bear Flag Fish Company

Food Runner/Busser

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

Maintain cleanliness and organization of food running stations * Help clear tables and support the team during busy periods * Provide friendly and attentive hospitality to all guests Qualifications

Bear Flag Fish Co.

Food Runner/Busser

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

Maintain cleanliness and organization of food running stations * Help clear tables and support the team during busy periods * Provide friendly and attentive hospitality to all guests Qualifications

HTR LLC

Food Runner

Valley Center, CA

$16.90 - $20/hr

As a Food Runner, you will set and clear tables, deliver food, communicate with the host, and provide excellent hospitality to our guests. If you're friendly, hard-working, and interested in getting ...

HTR LLC

Food Runner

Valley Center, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20/hr

As a Food Runner, you will set and clear tables, deliver food, communicate with the host, and provide excellent hospitality to our guests. If you're friendly, hard-working, and interested in getting ...

HTR LLC

Food Runner

Valley Center, CA

$16.90 - $20/hr

As a Food Runner, you will set and clear tables, deliver food, communicate with the host, and provide excellent hospitality to our guests. If you're friendly, hard-working, and interested in getting ...

Mom's Pizza and Pasta

Food Runner

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

As a Food Runner, you are the link between the kitchen and the wait staff. You will set and clear tables, deliver food, and generally act as the liaison between the front of house and back of the ...

FOUR ROOTS

Food Runner

Azusa, CA · On-site

$17/hr

As a Food Runner, you are the link between the kitchen and the wait staff. You will set and clear tables, deliver food, and generally act as the liaison between the front of house and back of the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFood Running JobsFood Running Jobs in California

Food Running information

See California salary details

$11

$21

$40

How much do food running jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for food running in California is $21.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a food runner do?

A Food Runner is responsible for delivering food orders from the kitchen to guests at their tables in a restaurant. They ensure that dishes are delivered promptly and correctly, helping servers provide excellent customer service. Food Runners also assist with clearing tables, refilling water, and addressing guest needs to ensure a smooth dining experience. They play a key role in maintaining communication between kitchen staff and the front of house.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food runner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Runner, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the physical stamina to move quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced restaurant environment. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic food safety practices is often required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude help build rapport with both kitchen staff and servers. These skills ensure timely, accurate food delivery and a smooth dining experience for guests.

What are some common challenges faced by food runners and how can they be addressed?

Food runners often face the challenge of balancing multiple orders during busy periods, which requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Navigating a crowded dining area while carrying hot plates also demands careful coordination and good communication with both kitchen staff and servers. To address these challenges, it's helpful to stay calm under pressure, double-check order accuracy before leaving the kitchen, and work closely with the rest of the team to ensure smooth service. Most restaurants provide training and encourage teamwork to help food runners succeed in these fast-paced environments.

Do food runners get paid well?

Food runners typically earn an hourly wage that is close to minimum wage, often supplemented by tips from customers. Their total earnings can vary based on location, restaurant type, and shift hours, but generally, they do not receive high salaries compared to other restaurant staff roles.

Is being a food runner worth it?

Food running is a fast-paced job that involves delivering orders from the kitchen to customers, requiring good communication and time management skills. It often offers flexible hours and tips, but pay can vary based on location and tips received. The role provides experience in the hospitality industry and can serve as a stepping stone to other restaurant positions.

What is a food running job?

A food running job involves delivering food orders from a restaurant to customers, often in a fast-paced environment. It requires good communication skills, knowledge of the delivery area, and sometimes a valid driver's license or access to a vehicle. Food runners typically work for restaurants, catering services, or delivery platforms to ensure timely and accurate order delivery.

What are popular job titles related to Food Running jobs in California?

For Food Running jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Running jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Running jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Food Running jobs?

Cities in California with the most Food Running job openings:

Food Running jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Running job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,154 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Food Runner

Special Event Services Inc

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
 
Job Summary
We are seeking a Food Runner to join the team at our busy concessions location! As a Food Runner, you have many responsibilities depending on need.  Some examples include, setting up tents, grills, fryers, running a POS system and taking orders, cooking food, running food and other various tasks as assigned. If you’re friendly, hard-working, and interested in getting your foot in the door in the hospitality industry, we want to hear from you. 


Responsibilities: 
  • Serve customers their meals and drinks in an efficient manner
  • Set up and take down tents and equipment
  • Cook if needed
  • Many other various tasks
  • Adhere to all health and safety rules and regulations

Qualifications: 
  • Experience as a busser, barback, food runner, or similar position is preferred
  • Familiarity with food safety guidelines
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 30 pounds
  • Friendly and outgoing personality
  • Availability to work evening and weekend shifts