Assistant Restaurant Manager Salary in Des Moines, IA
Assistant Restaurant Managers in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $17.30 per hour, which translates to about $692.00 per week, $2,998.67 per month, and $35,984.00 per year.
The demand for Assistant Restaurant Managers in Des Moines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook for this leadership role within the local hospitality scene.
How Much Does an Assistant Restaurant Manager Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Des Moines varies depending on experience, skill, and employer size. Here's a look at typical hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings across career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,686.67 | $32,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.30 | $692.00 | $2,998.67 | $35,984.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.10 | $804.00 | $3,482.00 | $41,808.00 |
Do Assistant Restaurant Managers in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Assistant Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation, since their role is primarily managerial and less customer-facing in terms of direct service. Their income usually comes from their salary or hourly wage alone.
Assistant Restaurant Manager Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Assistant Restaurant Managers earn an average of around $17.60 per hour, translating to about $36,608 per year.
Assistant Restaurant Managers in Des Moines earn slightly less hourly, at $17.30, and annual earnings are a bit below the national average at $35,984. This difference can reflect local market factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Assistant Restaurant Managers
Nearby cities show some variation in salaries for this position:
- West Des Moines: $18.50 per hour
- Ankeny: $18.00 per hour
Assistant Restaurant Managers might find better pay by commuting to West Des Moines or Ankeny, where hospitality establishments tend to offer slightly higher compensation.
What Influences an Assistant Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Des Moines?
Experience plays a major role, with seasoned Assistant Restaurant Managers earning more than entry-level workers.
Skills such as staff supervision, conflict resolution, and inventory management improve earning potential.
The type of establishment also matters—a luxury fine dining restaurant may pay more than a fast casual venue.
Size and location of the restaurant influence salaries, as larger operations with higher volume often offer better compensation.
How To Become an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Des Moines
To pursue a career as an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Des Moines, consider these steps:
- Enroll in programs like the Des Moines Area Community College Culinary Arts Program for comprehensive culinary and management training.
- Advance with further education at the Iowa Culinary Institute at DMACC, focusing on cuisine and management skills.
- Obtain certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification, essential for food safety compliance.
- Earn the Certified Restaurant Manager (CRM) credential from the National Restaurant Association to validate operational expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Assistant Restaurant Managers in Des Moines
Several well-known companies actively hire Assistant Restaurant Managers in Des Moines, including:
- Panera Bread
- Papa John's
- Taco John's
Establishments That Assistant Restaurant Managers in Des Moines Work At
Assistant Restaurant Managers typically work in a variety of foodservice venues:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often pay moderate wages and require a mix of management and customer interaction.
- Fast Casual Chains: Such establishments focus on efficiency and may offer steady pay but less in bonuses or tips.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues tend to pay more due to higher complexity and guest expectations.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: Larger operations often have structured management teams with higher salaries.
The type of establishment can significantly impact salary and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Assistant Restaurant Managers
Assistant Restaurant Managers can consider related roles that share overlapping skills and responsibilities. Here are a few career paths worth exploring:
These include Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, and Hotel General Manager positions, which offer career progression options within hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Assistant Restaurant Managers in Des Moines
Understanding local labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Assistant Restaurant Managers to protect their rights and manage earnings.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Iowa for comprehensive information on state labor laws and employment standards.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's website is a valuable resource for federal labor laws, wage regulations, and workplace safety guidelines.