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Runner In Restaurant Jobs in Portland, PA (NOW HIRING)

Red Lobster

Busser/Runner

Bartonsville, PA · On-site

Over fifty years later, every seat in our over 500 restaurant family is an extension of that ... Running hot food to guests when ready in alley * Providing guest support for Servers as needed

MOD Pizza

Restaurant Shift Supervisor

Easton, PA · On-site

$18.49/hr

In this position, you will flex to the needs of the restaurant and the squad, sometimes leading ... running smoothly. * As assigned, train newly hired/promoted squad and support the team through new ...

THE ORCHID STEAKHOUSE

Be Seen First

Entry Level Fine Dining Upscale Hostess / Host / Food Runner

Bethlehem, PA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

... the restaurant. Food Runners provide guest with their orders in an efficient and very professional manner. Our ideal candidates are early risers, punctual, professional, and organized. They will ...

THE ORCHID STEAKHOUSE

Be Seen First

Entry Level Fine Dining Upscale Hostess / Host / Food Runner

Bethlehem, PA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

... the restaurant. Food Runners provide guest with their orders in an efficient and very professional manner. Our ideal candidates are early risers, punctual, professional, and organized. They will ...

Taco Bell

Shift Manager -1200 US HWY 22

Phillipsburg, NJ · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

... running a shift. Seeks assistance from others when appropriate and willing to provide help and ... Short and long-term success of the restaurant is impacted by management's role in achieving 100 ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsRunner In Restaurant JobsRunner In Restaurant Jobs in Portland, PA

Runner In Restaurant information

See Portland, PA salary details

$6

$14

$21

How much do runner in restaurant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for runner in restaurant in Portland, PA is $14.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.20 and $17.07 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 Portland, PA are hiring for Runner In Restaurant jobs?

Cities near Portland, PA with the most Runner In Restaurant job openings:

Runner In Restaurant jobs near you

Busser/Runner

Red Lobster

Bartonsville, PA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Red Lobster rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 262 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 89 rated restaurants

Job description

Overview

Why You Want to Work Here:

  • We offer weekly pay and competitive wages
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Options for medical, dental and vision starting at less than $10/week
  • Life insurance, short-term disability and voluntary benefits
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match after 1 year of service
  • Anniversary pay (must meet eligibility requirements)
  • Discounted shift meals and a 25% discount when dining as a guest
  • Opportunities - we train and provide career opportunities so you can advance and grow 

Who We Are:

It all began with a single family-owned restaurant and the vision to give people something special:  a connection to seafood and the coast.  Over fifty years later, every seat in our over 500 restaurant family is an extension of that founding passion.  We proudly set the table for our guests' favorite meals and moments because we are more than just a place to eat and work.  We are part of the communities we serve, and this is where new friends become familiar faces. 

Your responsibilities as a Busser/Runner will include, but are not limited to:

  • Welcoming every guest into our restaurant with a smile 
  • Setting up station for the shift
  • Ensuring silverware and condiments are on the table
  • Refilling drinks and pre-bussing
  • Running hot food to guests when ready in alley
  • Providing guest support for Servers as needed
  • Following all food safety and cleanliness standards
  • Clearing dishes from tables, resetting table, and cleaning seats and floors
  • Communicating table readiness
  • Breaking down items in the dish area

What it Takes to Succeed (Physical Job Requirements)

  • Must meet the minimum age requirement and authorized to work in the country you are applying
  • Ability to bend, reach, stoop and lift up to 30 pounds safely
  • Ability to move about the restaurant and remain standing for an 8 - 12 hour shift 
  • Team player with attention to detail and ability to multi-task

The physical demands described above are representative of those that must be met by employees to successfully perform this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

BIG plans are on the horizon for Red Lobster. Our team and restaurants are great today, but our future is even better. There is no better time than now to be a part of the Red Lobster Family! 

***We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer who provides a welcoming workplace for everyone. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, or veteran status***

Employment Type: PART_TIME

What Red Lobster employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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