Assistant Restaurant Manager Salary in Wilmington, NC
Assistant Restaurant Managers in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $21.35 per hour, which translates to about $854.00 per week, $3,700.67 per month, and $44,408.00 per year.
The demand for Assistant Restaurant Managers in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market with increasing job opportunities for this role.
How Much Does an Assistant Restaurant Manager Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Wilmington varies depending on experience and employer, but the following breakdown provides insight into earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.35 | $854.00 | $3,700.67 | $44,408.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
Do Assistant Restaurant Managers in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Assistant Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation, since their role is management-focused and not primarily customer-facing like servers or bartenders.
Assistant Restaurant Manager Salary in Wilmington, NC vs. National Average
Nationally, Assistant Restaurant Managers earn approximately $22.12 per hour, translating to about $46,009.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Assistant Restaurant Managers in Wilmington earn slightly less per hour and annually, with local pay averaging $21.35 hourly and $44,408 annually.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Assistant Restaurant Managers
The salary for Assistant Restaurant Managers can vary within nearby areas around Wilmington:
- Mayfaire: $23.00 per hour
- Downtown: $22.50 per hour
Those working in Mayfaire can expect to earn a bit more compared to Downtown and other areas in Wilmington.
What Influences an Assistant Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Wilmington?
Multiple factors influence earnings for Assistant Restaurant Managers in Wilmington, NC:
- Experience and Tenure: Managers with more years in restaurant operations and leadership tend to command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Strong leadership, communication skills, and certifications such as ServSafe Manager improve salary prospects.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or upscale venues generally offer better pay than casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Location within Wilmington: Some neighborhoods, like Mayfaire, offer higher wages due to clientele and restaurant prestige.
- Size and Brand of Employer: Larger or well-known chains may provide higher salaries and benefits compared to small independent restaurants.
How To Become an Assistant Restaurant Manager in Wilmington
Starting a career as an Assistant Restaurant Manager involves a few key steps:
- Education: Consider programs like the Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program or the University of North Carolina Wilmington Hospitality Management Program to build a strong foundation in restaurant operations and management.
- Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Manager Certification is crucial for compliance with food safety regulations. Advanced certifications like the Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) can further boost credentials.
- Experience: Gain experience in various restaurant roles such as server, line cook, or supervisor to develop operational insight.
- Leadership Development: Developing strong team management and customer service skills is essential for career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Assistant Restaurant Managers in Wilmington
Several well-known employers in Wilmington actively seek qualified Assistant Restaurant Managers:
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Five Guys
- Cook Out Restaurants
Establishments That Assistant Restaurant Managers in Wilmington Work At
Assistant Restaurant Managers typically work in a variety of establishment types, each influencing salary potential:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer the highest salaries due to upscale service and clientele expectations.
- Casual Dining: Provide moderate pay with opportunities for growth and varied responsibilities.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service: Usually pay lower salaries but may offer high-volume experience and advancement potential.
- Hotel Restaurants and Catering: Can offer competitive salaries and benefits, often integrating hospitality management skills.
The establishment’s scale, reputation, and location all influence overall earnings for Assistant Restaurant Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Assistant Restaurant Managers
If you are exploring careers related to Assistant Restaurant Manager, here are similar roles to consider:
These include Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager positions, which often share similar responsibilities and career pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Assistant Restaurant Managers in Wilmington
Assistant Restaurant Managers in Wilmington should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work conditions and pay:
- For federal labor laws and regulations, you can visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- For North Carolina-specific laws including workplace standards, check the North Carolina Department of Labor website.