When you go out to eat, it’s far more than just servers that make your dining experience pleasant. The busser is an integral part of the restaurant staff. So, let's dive into the world of bussers and discuss the importance of their role as well as their responsibilities, wages, job outlook, and advancement opportunities.
What is a busser?
A busser is an entry-level position in the restaurant industry. Bussers work behind the scenes, ensuring everything is in place for the next guest, so the server team can focus on providing excellent service.
Responsibilities of a busser
The duties of a busser vary depending on the restaurant and its needs. The most common responsibilities include:
- Clearing tables. Bussers remove all used plates, silverware, and glasses from the table once guests have finished their meal.
- Resetting tables. Once the table has been cleared, the busser wipes it down and resets it with clean linens, glassware, and silverware.
- Assisting servers. Bussers help the server team deliver food to tables, refill water glasses, and perform other tasks as needed.
- Cleaning duties. Bussers clean the dining area by sweeping, mopping, and wiping down tables and chairs when needed.
Average busser wages
According to Salary.com, the average hourly wage for a busser in the United States falls between $10 and $12 per hour. Likewise, ZipRecruiter lists the average hourly wage for a busser, as of June 2023, as $13.46 per hour.
Wages can vary depending on factors such as experience, the type of dining establishment, and geographic location. Bussers working in high-end restaurants or large cities may earn more than those working in small-town diners. Bussers may earn more if they work in an establishment where tips are split among the entire restaurant staff.
Job outlook and demands of the role
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, serving and related jobs in the food and beverage industry are expected to grow 9% by 2031, which is faster than average for other occupations.
Bussing is a physically demanding job. Bussers spend most of their time on their feet which can be tiring, especially during long shifts. It's essential for bussers to have good lifting techniques and to take breaks as needed. Bussers must often bend to clear tables and lift heavy objects, such as trays of dishes.
In addition to meeting certain physical demands, bussers may be required to work in hot or humid conditions, such as in kitchens or outdoor dining spaces. This could be unpleasant, particularly during the summer season.
Advancement opportunities
Bussing can lead to other positions such as host, server, or even line cook. With the right skills and experience, bussers can move up the ranks and take on more significant roles in the kitchen or front of house. If you want to move up in the world of bussing, it's important to be dedicated, reliable, and open-minded towards learning new things.
Tips for advancement
Learning as much as possible about the restaurant business is essential to advance in the culinary industry. This can be done by attending culinary school, taking online courses, or working with other industry professionals. Consider some of the following tips when advancement is your goal:
- Take advantage of training opportunities. Many restaurants offer on-the-job training programs or courses to help employees learn new skills. You could even consider staging to immerse yourself in the industry.
- Network with industry professionals. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and stay current on industry trends and job opportunities.
- Show initiative. Take on extra responsibilities whenever possible, and be willing to help in other areas of the restaurant. This shows your employer that you’re dedicated and ready to go above and beyond.
- Develop strong communication skills. Effective communication is critical in the restaurant industry. Practice good communication skills with customers and other staff members, and be willing to listen and take feedback.
- Pursue additional education. Taking courses or getting a culinary arts, hospitality management, or business degree can help you stand out from other job candidates.
Finding busser jobs
If you're interested in becoming a busser, there are many ways to find open positions. You can start by checking job search websites or visiting your favorite restaurants' websites and looking for open positions. Don’t be afraid to stop by establishments in-person during slower hours to request an application. Face-to-face interactions can really help to set you apart from other candidates.
Pick up busser shifts with Qwick
Once you have at least a year of experience as a busser, consider using the Qwick platform to pick up shifts at different businesses. As a busser with Qwick you can make your own schedule, work in various settings, and even get paid in just 30 minutes after clocking out.
Working with Qwick can provide you with flexibility, diverse experiences, and extra income, all while helping businesses in need of reliable staff and furthering your culinary career. Want to see what opportunities are waiting for you? Sign up for Qwick today.
