Kitchen Manager Salary in Bakersfield, CA
Kitchen Managers in Bakersfield, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $27.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,100.00 per week, $4,766.67 per month, and $57,200.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Bakersfield is growing strongly at about 37% per year, reflecting expanded opportunities in the hospitality and food service sector in the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Bakersfield, CA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Bakersfield varies according to experience and employer, but the following table reflects typical earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.10 | $924.00 | $3,996.00 | $47,904.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.50 | $1,100.00 | $4,766.67 | $57,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.20 | $1,328.00 | $5,749.33 | $68,960.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Bakersfield Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on kitchen oversight and management rather than direct customer service. Their income primarily comes from their salary or wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Bakersfield vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $31.40 per hour, translating to about $65,312 per year.
When compared, Kitchen Managers in Bakersfield earn slightly less, at approximately $27.50 per hour and $57,200 annually.
This difference can be influenced by local cost of living, demand, and regional economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bakersfield for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas with noteworthy Kitchen Manager salaries include:
- Downtown Bakersfield: $29.50 per hour
- Rosedale: $28.70 per hour
These nearby areas offer marginally higher pay, which could be attractive for Kitchen Managers willing to commute.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Bakersfield?
A range of factors can influence how much a Kitchen Manager earns in Bakersfield:
- Experience Level: More seasoned Kitchen Managers typically command higher salaries, reflecting their advanced skills and leadership capabilities.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized skills in kitchen operations, inventory control, and culinary knowledge can boost pay.
- Type of Establishment: Salary differs between casual dining, fast-casual, and fine dining restaurants or catering services, with upscale venues often paying more.
- Size of the Kitchen Team: Managing larger teams usually brings greater responsibility and better compensation.
- Local Market Demand: Economic conditions and demand for food services in Bakersfield directly affect salary levels.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Bakersfield
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Bakersfield involves several steps to develop the necessary skills and credentials:
- Gain Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Bakersfield College Culinary Arts Program for hands-on training in food preparation and kitchen management.
- Complete Occupational Courses: The Kern High School District Regional Occupational Center offers culinary arts courses focused on practical cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and management skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Acquire the ServSafe Manager Certification, a nationally recognized credential demonstrating knowledge of food safety protocols.
- Get State Certification: The California Food Handler Card is mandatory for food handlers and validates safe food handling knowledge.
- Develop Management Experience: Build experience by working up from positions such as line cook, sous chef, or kitchen supervisor.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Bakersfield
Some of the top employers currently seeking Kitchen Managers in Bakersfield include:
- Famous Dave's
- Hooters
- Bakersfield Tacos + Tequila + Whiskey
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Bakersfield Work At
Kitchen Managers in Bakersfield work across various types of establishments, which can impact their salary level:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often promote hands-on kitchen leadership with competitive wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually have faster-paced kitchens requiring efficient management, sometimes with moderate pay.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Demand refined culinary and management skills, often resulting in higher salaries.
- Catering and Event Services: Provide diverse kitchen management scenarios, which may affect income based on event scale.
The nature and prestige of the establishment influence salary ranges and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bakersfield for Kitchen Managers
If you are considering a career similar to Kitchen Manager, several related hospitality roles might interest you, including positions with overlapping management and culinary duties.
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager, which share core responsibilities related to kitchen leadership and culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Bakersfield
Kitchen Managers in Bakersfield should be knowledgeable about labor laws and taxes that affect their employment and income.
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor laws and workplace safety regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on state employment services and tax information.
- For federal labor statistics and employment standards, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.