Assistant Restaurant Manager Salary in Santa Maria, CA
Assistant Restaurant Managers in Santa Maria, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $25.18 per hour, which translates to about $1,007.20 per week, $4,364.53 per month, and $52,374.40 per year.
The demand for Assistant Restaurant Managers in Santa Maria is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market with opportunities increasing each year.
How Much Does an Assistant Restaurant Manager Make in Santa Maria, CA?
The salary of an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Santa Maria varies depending on experience and employer. Below is an overview of earnings across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Assistant Restaurant Managers in Santa Maria Earn Tips?
Typically, Assistant Restaurant Managers do not earn tips as their role focuses on management duties rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is usually derived from salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Assistant Restaurant Manager Salary in Santa Maria vs. National Average
Nationally, Assistant Restaurant Managers earn on average about $24.52 per hour, which amounts to around $51,001.60 per year.
In comparison, Assistant Restaurant Managers in Santa Maria earn slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $25.18 and an annual salary of approximately $52,374.40. This reflects a modest wage premium likely due to regional cost of living and local economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Maria for Assistant Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Assistant Restaurant Managers, including:
- Blosser Southwest: $27.00 per hour
- Entrada Este: $26.50 per hour
If commuting or relocating are options, Assistant Restaurant Managers may find slightly higher pay in these surrounding neighborhoods compared to Santa Maria itself.
What Influences an Assistant Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Santa Maria?
Several factors can impact how much an Assistant Restaurant Manager earns in Santa Maria:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced managers with developed leadership and operational skills can command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or busy chains often offers better pay compared to smaller or casual dining venues.
- Education and Certifications: Knowledge in hospitality management or food safety certifications can improve compensation prospects.
- Location and Cost of Living: Salaries are influenced by regional market rates and economic conditions.
- Shift Responsibilities: Managers handling varied or extended shifts may receive additional pay.
How To Become an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Santa Maria
Steps to pursue a career as an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Santa Maria include:
- Gain Relevant Education: Programs such as the Allan Hancock College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive culinary and management training valuable for this role.
- Acquire Hospitality Management Skills: Courses like the Santa Barbara City College Hotel Management Program focus on restaurant operations and team leadership.
- Obtain Key Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification ensure knowledge of food safety standards; additionally, a California Food Handler Card is mandatory in this state.
- Build Practical Experience: Working in various restaurant roles helps develop the needed operational and interpersonal skills.
Top Employers Hiring Assistant Restaurant Managers in Santa Maria
Some of the key employers frequently hiring Assistant Restaurant Managers in Santa Maria include:
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
- Chili's
Establishments That Assistant Restaurant Managers in Santa Maria Work At
Assistant Restaurant Managers typically find work in various dining environments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady demand and often good benefits, though salaries may be moderate.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Growing in popularity, these tend to offer competitive wages reflecting operational complexity.
- Fine Dining: Higher-end establishments generally offer higher compensation because of increased responsibility and customer expectations.
- Chain Restaurants: Large franchises often have structured pay scales and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment greatly affects earning potential, with fine dining and larger chains usually paying more than lower-tier or small independently-owned venues.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Maria for Assistant Restaurant Managers
If you're exploring careers related to Assistant Restaurant Manager, consider these similar opportunities:
These include Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager, roles that share responsibilities and skill sets with Assistant Restaurant Managers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Assistant Restaurant Managers in Santa Maria
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Assistant Restaurant Managers working in Santa Maria.
- California's Department of Industrial Relations provides detailed information on state labor laws and workplace regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources on employment services, taxes, and paid leave programs.
- For federal regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor which covers wage and hour laws, safety standards, and more.