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Runner In Restaurant Jobs in Apex, NC (NOW HIRING)

Sonic Drive-In

Co-Manager

Sanford, NC · On-site

You'll assist the drive-in restaurant's General Manager in managing drive-in operations and ... Experience running shifts without supervision * Effective communication skills; basic math, reading ...

Sonic Drive-In

Assistant Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Being an Assistant Manager at a SONIC Drive-In restaurant is the cherry on top of a Strawberry ... Experience running shifts without supervision • Effective communication skills; basic math ...

Sonic Drive-In

Assistant Manager

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

Being an Assistant Manager at a SONIC Drive-In restaurant is the cherry on top of a Strawberry ... Experience running shifts without supervision • Effective communication skills; basic math ...

Sonic Drive-In

Assistant Manager

Smithfield, NC · On-site

Being an Assistant Manager at a SONIC Drive-In restaurant is the cherry on top of a Strawberry ... Experience running shifts without supervision • Effective communication skills; basic math ...

Sonic Drive-In

Assistant Manager

Siler City, NC · On-site

$9 - $16/hr

You'll assist the drive-in restaurant's General Manager in managing drive-in operations. You will ... Experience running shifts without supervision * Effective communication skills; basic math, reading ...

Sonic Drive-In

Assistant Manager

Creedmoor, NC · On-site

$9 - $16/hr

You'll assist the drive-in restaurant's General Manager in managing drive-in operations. You will ... Experience running shifts without supervision * Effective communication skills; basic math, reading ...

Sonic Drive-In

Assistant Manager

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$9 - $16/hr

You'll assist the drive-in restaurant's General Manager in managing drive-in operations. You will ... Experience running shifts without supervision * Effective communication skills; basic math, reading ...

Sonic Drive-In

Assistant Manager

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$9 - $16/hr

You'll assist the drive-in restaurant's General Manager in managing drive-in operations. You will ... Experience running shifts without supervision * Effective communication skills; basic math, reading ...

Sonic Drive-In

Assistant Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$9 - $16/hr

You'll assist the drive-in restaurant's General Manager in managing drive-in operations. You will ... Experience running shifts without supervision * Effective communication skills; basic math, reading ...

Sonic Drive-In

Partner Trainee

Sanford, NC · On-site

Advanced studies in business, restaurant management or related fields are preferred * Minimum of two (2) years of restaurant management experience (QSR preferred), experience running shifts without ...

Sonic

Co-Manager

Sanford, NC · On-site

You'll assist the drive-in restaurant's General Manager in managing drive-in operations and ... Experience running shifts without supervision * Effective communication skills; basic math, reading ...

Sonic Drive-In

General Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Advanced studies in business, restaurant management or related fields are preferred • Minimum of two (2) years of restaurant management experience (QSR preferred), experience running shifts without ...

Sonic Drive-In

General Manager

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

Advanced studies in business, restaurant management or related fields are preferred • Minimum of two (2) years of restaurant management experience (QSR preferred), experience running shifts without ...

Sonic Drive-In

General Manager

Smithfield, NC · On-site

Advanced studies in business, restaurant management or related fields are preferred • Minimum of two (2) years of restaurant management experience (QSR preferred), experience running shifts without ...

Sonic Drive-In

General Manager

Siler City, NC · On-site

$44K - $66K/yr

Advanced studies in business, restaurant management or related fields are preferred * Minimum of two (2) years of restaurant management experience (QSR preferred), experience running shifts without ...

Sonic Drive-In

General Manager

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$44K - $66K/yr

Advanced studies in business, restaurant management or related fields are preferred * Minimum of two (2) years of restaurant management experience (QSR preferred), experience running shifts without ...

Sonic Drive-In

General Manager

Creedmoor, NC · On-site

$44K - $66K/yr

Advanced studies in business, restaurant management or related fields are preferred * Minimum of two (2) years of restaurant management experience (QSR preferred), experience running shifts without ...

Sonic Drive-In

General Manager

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$44K - $66K/yr

Advanced studies in business, restaurant management or related fields are preferred * Minimum of two (2) years of restaurant management experience (QSR preferred), experience running shifts without ...

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All JobsRunner In Restaurant JobsRunner In Restaurant Jobs in Apex, NC

Runner In Restaurant information

See Apex, NC salary details

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$10

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How much do runner in restaurant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for runner in restaurant in Apex, NC is $10.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.08 and $12.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a runner in a restaurant?

Restaurant runners, also known as food runners, are staff members who support servers and kitchen staff by delivering food and beverages from the kitchen to guests' tables. They ensure that dishes reach the correct table promptly and often help with clearing plates, refilling water, and checking in with guests to enhance their dining experience. Runners play a vital role in maintaining efficient service flow, especially during busy periods, and help ensure that guests receive their meals in a timely and presentable manner.

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

To thrive as a Runner in a restaurant, you need strong organizational skills, physical stamina, and attention to detail, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, food safety protocols, and basic tray-carrying techniques is often required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and a customer-focused attitude are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure efficient food delivery, smooth restaurant operations, and a positive dining experience for guests.

What are the main challenges faced by a runner in a busy restaurant, and how can these be managed effectively?

One of the main challenges for a runner in a busy restaurant is maintaining speed and accuracy while delivering food and drinks to the correct tables, especially during peak hours. Effective communication with kitchen staff and servers is crucial to ensure that orders are delivered promptly and correctly. Staying organized, keeping calm under pressure, and being attentive to guests' needs can help manage these challenges. Additionally, runners often work as part of a fast-paced team, so collaborating and assisting colleagues when needed is key to ensuring smooth service.

What is the difference between Runner In Restaurant vs Busser In Restaurant?

AspectRunner In RestaurantBusser In Restaurant
Primary RoleDeliver food from kitchen to tables, assist serversClear tables, reset for new guests, maintain cleanliness
Required SkillsKnowledge of menu, good communication, quick deliveryAttention to detail, cleanliness, teamwork
Work EnvironmentFast-paced restaurant floor, close interaction with kitchen and serversRestaurant floor, focus on table maintenance and cleanliness
CertificationsNone typically required, but food safety knowledge helpfulNone typically required

Both roles are essential in restaurant service, with Runners focusing on food delivery and Bussers on maintaining cleanliness. Runners often require quick movement and communication skills, while Bussers emphasize attention to detail and teamwork. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit in restaurant operations.

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 pay can vary based on location, restaurant type, and tips received, but generally, it is considered an entry-level position with moderate pay.

Is a runner in a restaurant the same as a waiter?

A runner in a restaurant is responsible for delivering food from the kitchen to tables and assisting waitstaff, but they do not take orders or handle customer service like waiters. Waiters take orders, serve food, and interact directly with guests, often requiring knowledge of menu items and customer service skills. Both roles work together to ensure a smooth dining experience but have different responsibilities.

What cities near Apex, NC are hiring for Runner In Restaurant jobs?

Cities near Apex, NC with the most Runner In Restaurant job openings:

Runner In Restaurant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Runner In Restaurant job openings in Apex, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $21,647 per year, or $10.4 per hour.

Co-Manager

Sonic Drive-In

Sanford, NC • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist the General Manager in managing drive-in operations and administration.

  • Train, monitor, and coach team members to ensure quality food service in a clean, safe, and efficient manner.

  • Perform restaurant opening and/or closing duties and manage staffing, inventory, and food cost control.

Sonic Drive-In rating

4.6

Company rating: 4.6 out of 10

Based on 1,639 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 107 rated fast food restaurants

Job description


There are two kinds of people in this world: SONIC employees and those who wish they were SONIC employees. This elite group gets to work with awesome people, earn great pay, and sport the cool uniform.
Being a Co-Manager at a SONIC Drive-In restaurant is the cherry on top of a Strawberry Banana Split Molten Cake Sundae. You'll assist the drive-in restaurant's General Manager in managing drive-in operations and administration. You will also be involved in training and supporting other employees to ensure we provide quality food in a clean, safe and efficient manner. We want every guest to have an enjoyable dining experience every time they come to SONIC.
Basic job duties for the drive-in restaurant's Co-Manager include:
  • Manages, trains, monitors and coaches Team / Crew Members, Carhops and Skating Carhops
  • Directs and assigns drive-in restaurant employees as needed to ensure all aspects of food service meet operational standards
  • Adheres to and monitors employee compliance of the drive-in restaurant employee handbook, policies and practices
  • Performs restaurant opening and/or closing duties
  • Monitors and makes appropriate adjustments to staffing levels, inventory levels and food cost control
  • Completes weekly inventory as needed
  • Assists in administrative duties including maintaining files, records and all required documentation
  • Reinforces a customer service mentality and ensures all employees are focused on serving the customer at all times.
  • Immediately and respectfully responds to guest requests. Reports guest complaints to immediate supervisor and assists in resolving such complaints.

Requirements
SONIC Drive-In Co-Manager Requirements:
  • Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays
  • General knowledge and understanding of the restaurant industry or retail operations required
  • Minimum of six months of restaurant management experience (QSR) or two year entry level retail management experience required. Experience running shifts without supervision
  • Effective communication skills; basic math, reading and computer skills
  • Ability to follow directions and work with autonomy once given directions; ability to multi-task and successfully solve problems
  • Willingness to abide by the appearance, uniform and hygiene standards at SONIC
  • Offer of employment contingent upon a background check.

Additional Info
Additional SONIC Drive-In Co-Manager Qualifications...
  • Friendly and smiling faces that enjoy providing courteous food service to our guests!
  • Professional individuals who value people and demonstrate respect for others!
  • A team player willing to meet and exceed drive-in goals and objectives.
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and lead team members.
  • Dedicated individuals with a proven track record of building sales, creative marketing, expense management and developing people into successful teams.

Sure, classic cars and vintage threads may be things of the past, but the SONIC Drive-In restaurant experience will always be groovy, right on, awesome, wicked, fab, the bee's knees, cruisin' . . . you get the picture! It's downright sensational!!
All that's missing is you, so APPLY TODAY!
SONIC and its independent franchise owners are Equal Opportunity Employers.
You are applying for work for a franchisee D.L. Roger Corp of Sonic, not Sonic Corporate, or any of its affiliates. If hired, the franchisee will be your only employer. Franchisees are independent business owners who set their own wage and benefit programs that can vary among franchisees..

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