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

Eataly

Runner - Terra Restaurant

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Greets guests in assigned area; pours beverage as requested; serves bread and olive oil * Runs food ... restaurant * Highly organized with excellent time management skills * High school diploma or ...

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Restaurant & Bar Server

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$23 - $35/hr

Bar & Restaurant Server REPORTS TO: Restaurant Manager, General Manager DIRECT REPORTS: None ... running drinks and general friendly engagement is required in this role. The Server position is ...

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Restaurant & Bar Server

San Ramon, CA · On-site

Bar & Restaurant Server REPORTS TO: Restaurant Manager, General Manager DIRECT REPORTS: None ... running drinks and general friendly engagement is required in this role. The Server position is ...

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Servers Food Runners

San Jose, CA · On-site

Job Type Part-time Description JOB TITLE: FOH - Cashier, Servers, Food Runner/Expeditor, Guest ... Position may be required to assist in restaurant operations (prolonged periods of standing, walking ...

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Servers Food Runners

San Jose, CA · On-site

Description JOB TITLE: FOH - Cashier, Servers, Food Runner/Expeditor, Guest Services REPORTS TO ... Position may be required to assist in restaurant operations (prolonged periods of standing, walking ...

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Casual Restaurant Server

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Restaurant Server REPORTS TO: Restaurant Manager, General Manager DIRECT REPORTS: NoneCOMPENSATION ... running drinks and general friendly engagement is required in this role. The Server position is ...

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Casual Restaurant Server

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Restaurant Server REPORTS TO: Restaurant Manager, General Manager DIRECT REPORTS: NoneCOMPENSATION ... running drinks and general friendly engagement is required in this role. The Server position is ...

Highway West Vacations

Runner I

Pescadero, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Runner I Job Title: Food Runner (Runner I) Company: Highway West Vacations Location: Costanoa ... Restaurant offers a unique dining experience rooted in fresh ingredients, a beautiful natural ...

Posted today

ANANTARA INC

Food Runner

Fremont, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

... busy restaurant! As a Food Runner, you are the link between the kitchen and the wait staff. You ... If you're friendly, hard-working, and interested in getting your foot in the door in the ...

San Jose Improv

Food & Drink Runner

San Jose, CA

The San Jose Improv is looking for energetic and outgoing Food and Drink Runners to join the team ... High school diploma, or equivalent work experience. * 1 or more years of experience in restaurants ...

Horsefeather

Food Runner

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$18.20/hr

Join Our Team as a Food Runner - Support an Exceptional Guest Experience About the Position The ... in a timely and accurate manner. * Ensure that all dishes are presented according to restaurant ...

Nola Palo Alto

Food Runner

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

The food runner may also assist in many other duties when other members of the staff are busy. Requirements/Responsibilities - Restaurant Experience is proffered, however not required - Excellent ...

Milagros Redwood City

Food Runner

Redwood City, CA · On-site

The food runner may also assist in many other duties when other members of the staff are busy. Requirements/Responsibilities - Restaurant Experience is proffered, however not required - Excellent ...

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

Runner In Restaurant information

See Milpitas, CA salary details

$6

$15

$23

How much do runner in restaurant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for runner in restaurant in Milpitas, CA is $15.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.31 and $18.75 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 Milpitas, CA are hiring for Runner In Restaurant jobs?

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

Runner In Restaurant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Runner In Restaurant job openings in Milpitas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,108 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Runner - Terra Restaurant

Eataly

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Create a high-quality dining experience by delivering meals accurately and promptly, organizing and cleaning tables.

  • Greet guests, serve beverages, bread, and olive oil, and assist with running food and drinks to tables.

  • Remove used dishes and silverware, maintain cleanliness of tables and chairs, and reset vacated tables.

Eataly rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 88 rated restaurants

Job description

Company Description

Eataly is the world's largest artisanal Italian food and beverage marketplace! Eataly is not a chain; each Eataly is different, with its own character and own theme - but all with the same aim... for our guests to:

  • EAT authentic Italian food at our restaurants, cafes and to-go counters
  • SHOP a selection of high-quality Italian, local and homemade products
  • LEARN through our classes and our team's product knowledge
Job Description

A Runner - known as a Table Support Team Member at Eataly - creates a high-quality dining experience in Eataly's restaurants through timely and accurate delivery of meals as well as the organization and cleaning of tables. Reports to the Restaurant Manager. 

  • Greets guests in assigned area; pours beverage as requested; serves bread and olive oil
  • Runs food from the kitchen to tables, ensuring each course is delivered accurately and in a timely manner
  • Runs beverage from bar to tables and makes sure water glasses remain filled
  • Removes used dishes and silverware from tables between courses and after guests leave the table
  • Maintains cleanliness of all tables and chairs in an assigned service area and resets vacated tables
  • Assists servers when needed and understands food descriptions and ingredients of menu items
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned
Qualifications
  • 1+ year of experience in a fast-paced high-volume restaurant
  • Highly organized with excellent time management skills
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred

Job Requirements

  • Availability to work onsite with a flexible schedule often including evenings, weekends and holidays
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to exert well-paced mobility for up to 8 hours, including standing, walking, bending and squatting
Additional Information

Benefits and Perks

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • 401K with match 
  • Free family meal daily
  • Discounts at Eataly
  • Referral bonus program
  • and more!

Pay rate is set at $18.70 an hour plus tips. 

Eataly is an equal employment opportunity employer. It is the Company's policy to not unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability or any other characteristic made unlawful to consider by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Eataly also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also Eataly's policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws regarding consideration of unemployment status, salary history, credit/bankruptcy history and criminal background/conviction history in making hiring decisions.  If contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise Human Resources if you require accommodation.

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