Assistant Restaurant Manager Salary in Lakeland, FL
Assistant Restaurant Managers in Lakeland, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $20.23 per hour, which translates to about $809.20 per week, $3,506.53 per month, and $42,078.40 per year.
The demand for Assistant Restaurant Managers in Lakeland is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating a positive job market for those pursuing careers in restaurant management roles within the area.
How Much Does an Assistant Restaurant Manager Make in Lakeland, FL?
Assistant Restaurant Manager salaries in Lakeland vary based on experience, skills, and the type of employer, but the general pay scale is as follows:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.36 | $694.40 | $3,009.07 | $36,109.33 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.23 | $809.20 | $3,506.53 | $42,078.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
Do Assistant Restaurant Managers in Lakeland Earn Tips?
Assistant Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as their role is usually managerial, overseeing staff and operations rather than direct customer service. Their earnings primarily depend on their base salary and any bonuses offered by the employer.
Assistant Restaurant Manager Salary in Lakeland, FL vs. National Average
Nationally, Assistant Restaurant Managers earn approximately $19.00 per hour, equating to around $39,520 per year.
Compared to the national average, Assistant Restaurant Managers in Lakeland, FL, earn slightly more at about $20.23 per hour and $42,078.40 annually, which reflects the regional demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakeland for Assistant Restaurant Managers
The pay for Assistant Restaurant Managers can vary slightly depending on the specific area within and around Lakeland:
- Downtown Lakeland: $21.50 per hour
- South Lakeland: $22.00 per hour
Assistant Restaurant Managers working in South Lakeland tend to earn the highest wages, slightly above Downtown Lakeland and the city average.
What Influences an Assistant Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Lakeland?
Several factors impact the salary of an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Lakeland, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More years of management experience and strong leadership skills generally lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries are typically higher in upscale restaurants or large chains than in small independent eateries.
- Location: Working in high-traffic or more affluent areas such as South Lakeland can increase salary potential.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Having specialized management or food safety certifications can enhance earning capacity.
- Job Responsibilities: Those overseeing larger teams or multiple shifts may command higher wages.
How To Become an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Lakeland
Pursuing a career as an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Lakeland involves the following steps:
- Education: Completing a program such as the Polk State College Hospitality and Tourism Management Program or Florida Southern College Business Administration with a Concentration in Hospitality Management can provide valuable knowledge and skills.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification and Certified Food Manager (CFM) Certification is often essential to validate expertise in food safety and sanitation.
- Experience: Gaining hands-on experience by working in restaurant operations, either in supervisory roles or as an assistant, builds the competencies needed.
- Networking: Connecting with local industry professionals and actively seeking opportunities can facilitate entry and advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Assistant Restaurant Managers in Lakeland
Many prominent employers in Lakeland regularly seek skilled Assistant Restaurant Managers, including:
- Metro Diner
- IHOP
- Fresh Kitchen
- KFC
- Sonic Drive-In
Establishments That Assistant Restaurant Managers in Lakeland Work At
Assistant Restaurant Managers find employment across various types of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer stable salaries with opportunities for bonuses based on performance.
- Fast Casual & Quick-Service Restaurants: Salaries might be competitive, but generally lower than upscale establishments, with a focus on operational efficiency.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These may provide higher compensation and additional benefits due to greater responsibilities and customer expectations.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary levels, with larger or more prestigious venues typically paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakeland, FL for Assistant Restaurant Managers
Those interested in similar roles may consider related careers within the hospitality sector that share overlapping skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Assistant Restaurant Managers in Lakeland
Being informed about employment regulations and taxation is vital for Assistant Restaurant Managers in Lakeland.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be accessed via the Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and resources are available at myflorida.com.
- Local employment information and resources can be found on the city’s official site at lakelandgov.net.