Kitchen Manager Salary in Boulder, CO
Kitchen Managers in Boulder, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $28.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,120.00 per week, $4,853.33 per month, and $58,240.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Boulder is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook with increasing job opportunities in the hospitality and food service sectors.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Boulder can vary depending on experience and workplace setting. Here’s a breakdown based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.00 | $1,280.00 | $5,546.67 | $66,560.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Boulder Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips since their primary responsibilities are managerial and operational rather than direct customer service. Their compensation mainly comes from salary or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Boulder vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of about $25.70 per hour, amounting to approximately $53,456 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Boulder, CO, earn a higher hourly rate of $28.00 and an annual salary of $58,240.00. This premium can be attributed to local economic factors and demand for experienced management in food establishments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas also offer competitive salaries for Kitchen Managers:
- University Hill: $29.50 per hour
- Pearl Street Mall: $30.00 per hour
Kitchen Managers working closer to Pearl Street Mall may find slightly higher wages, reflecting the area's concentration of dining and hospitality venues.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Boulder?
Several key factors can impact the salary of a Kitchen Manager in Boulder, including:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: Those with extensive managerial expertise and strong leadership abilities tend to command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or larger food service operations often provides better compensation than smaller or casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications like Food Safety Manager or completing culinary management programs can increase earning potential.
- Location within Boulder: Establishments in busy commercial or tourist areas may offer premium wages.
- Work Hours and Responsibilities: Managers covering multiple shifts or additional duties may receive higher pay.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Boulder
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Boulder involves a combination of education, certification, and practical experience.
Consider enrolling in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts or the Professional Cook Certificate at Front Range Community College located nearby. These programs provide valuable training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
Obtaining essential certifications is also crucial. The ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM), required by Colorado law, ensure comprehensive knowledge of food safety and sanitation.
Gaining hands-on experience in kitchens and developing strong organizational and leadership skills can pave the way to securing a Kitchen Manager role.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Boulder
- The Kitchen
- Frasca Food and Wine
- Black Cat
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Boulder Work At
Kitchen Managers typically work in a varied range of foodservice establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide higher salaries due to the complexity and standards of the kitchen operations.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: May offer moderate pay but can provide rapid advancement opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large-scale kitchens tend to pay more and offer additional benefits.
- Catering and Banquet Facilities: These can offer seasonal or event-based work with varying pay scales.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary, with high-end and large venues often paying more for experienced managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Kitchen Managers
If you’re exploring careers related to Kitchen Manager, consider the following roles which share similar skill sets:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Chef de Cuisine, and Executive Chef roles, each involving different levels of responsibility within kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Boulder
Understanding applicable labor laws and tax regulations is important for Kitchen Managers in Boulder to ensure compliance and proper workplace standards.
- Information on state regulations is available at the Official website of the State of Colorado.
- For local government resources, visit Boulder County's official website.
- Federal labor standards and tax guidelines can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.