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Runner In Restaurant Jobs in Fullerton, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sonic Drive-In

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Restaurant General Manager

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$27 - $31/hr (+ commission)

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 ...

LUIS THE CHEF INC

Busboy/ Food Runner

Torrance, CA · On-site

$500 - $2.0K/mo (+ commission)

Experience: 2 years in restaurant industry Skills * Customer service * Social perceptiveness * Critical thinking * Judgment and decision making * Time management * Communication Bar / Food Runner and ...

LUIS THE CHEF INC

Busboy/ Food Runner

Torrance, CA · On-site

$500 - $2.0K/mo (+ commission)

Experience: 2 years in restaurant industry Skills * Customer service * Social perceptiveness * Critical thinking * Judgment and decision making * Time management * Communication Bar / Food Runner and ...

Sonic Drive-In

Assistant General Manager

Ontario, CA · 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 General Manager

Pomona, CA · 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 General Manager

Duarte, CA · 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

General Manager

Costa Mesa, CA · 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 ...

Marriott

Restaurant Runner

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Clean and set up tables in the outlet and perform other food service related duties, including general cleaning and set up. Serve water, bread and coffee and greet guests by name whenever possible ...

Sonic Drive-In

General Manager

Huntington Beach, CA · 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 ...

555 East

Food Runner

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Delicious food in a beautiful restaurant! The Food Runner ensures our Guests receive an experience that will exceed expectations by delivering food to visual standard and to timing standards. They ...

Sonic Drive-In

General Manager

Ontario, CA · 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

Santa Ana, CA · 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 ...

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All JobsRunner In Restaurant JobsRunner In Restaurant Jobs in Fullerton, CA

Runner In Restaurant information

See Fullerton, CA salary details

$6

$14

$21

How much do runner in restaurant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for runner in restaurant in Fullerton, CA is $14.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.06 and $16.83 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 are popular job titles related to Runner In Restaurant jobs in Fullerton, CA?

For Runner In Restaurant jobs in Fullerton, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Runner In Restaurant jobs in Fullerton, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Runner In Restaurant jobs in Fullerton, CA are:

What cities near Fullerton, CA are hiring for Runner In Restaurant jobs?

Cities near Fullerton, CA with the most Runner In Restaurant job openings:

Runner In Restaurant jobs near you

Restaurant General Manager

Sonic Drive-In

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$27 - $31/hr (+ commission)

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

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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

As a SONIC Drive-In restaurant General Manager, you are indeed a general—leading your troops in a never-ending campaign to give America an infinitely more delicious food service experience. You will be involved in training and supporting drive-in restaurant employees, ensuring that food is delivered in a clean, safe and efficient manner and our customers have an excellent experience.


Essential General Manager restaurant job duties are listed below:

  • Manages, trains, monitors and coaches Crew/ Team 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 employee handbook, policies and practices
  • Performs restaurant opening and/or closing duties
  • Prepares employee work schedules; monitors and makes appropriate adjustments to restaurant staffing levels
  • Monitors and maintains restaurant inventory levels. Places orders for food, paper and other supplies within cost control procedures
  • Completes and maintains all drive-in restaurant employment related records and payroll records
  • Reinforces a customer service mentality and ensures all employees are focused on serving the customer at all times.
  • Immediately and respectfully resolves guest requests. Reports guest complaints to immediate supervisor and assists in resolving such complaints
  • Interview and hire restaurant crew and management team members to achieve proper staffing levels
  • Prepare all necessary operational reports. Develop appropriate action plans to resolve unfavorable financial and/or sales trends
  • Develop and implement a marketing plan


Additional General Manager Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required. 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 supervision
  • Required to work a minimum 5 day workweek with 2 closing shifts including irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays
  • Knowledge of recruiting, interviewing and selection practices
  • Knowledge of federal and state labor laws as well as local health and sanitation laws and regulations
  • Leadership and supervisory practices and skills; effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Basic accounting and computer skills
  • Ability to follow directions and work with autonomy once given directions; ability to multi-task and successfully solve problems
  • Problem solving, decision-making and conflict-resolution skills
  • Willingness to abide by the appearance, uniform and hygiene standards at SONIC


Sure, classic cars and vintage threads may be things of the past, but the Sonic Drive-In 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.

Company Description

For more than 70 years, SONIC, America’s Drive-In has built a dominant position in the drive-in restaurant business. We did it by sticking to what made drive-ins so popular in the first place: made-to-order American classics, signature menu items, speedy service from friendly Carhops and heaping helpings of fun and personality.

SONIC is part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants which includes concepts like Buffalo Wild Wings, Arby's, & Rusty Taco.

What Sonic Drive-In employees say

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