Kitchen Manager Salary in Buffalo, NY
Kitchen Managers in Buffalo, NY, in 2026, earn approximately $25.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,020.00 per week, $4,420.00 per month, and $53,040.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Buffalo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this field within the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Buffalo, NY?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Buffalo can vary along with experience levels and venue size. Below is a breakdown to provide insight into typical earnings across various stages of a Kitchen Manager’s career.
| 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) | $25.50 | $1,020.00 | $4,410.00 | $53,040.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Buffalo Earn Tips?
Typically, Kitchen Managers do not earn tips as their role focuses on supervising kitchen operations and staff rather than direct customer service. Their income is primarily based on salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Buffalo vs. National Average
On a national level, Kitchen Managers earn approximately $27.00 per hour or about $56,160 per year.
Comparing this with Buffalo's average, Kitchen Managers earn slightly less with a typical hourly wage of $25.50 and a yearly salary around $53,040. The difference reflects local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Buffalo for Kitchen Managers
Looking at nearby areas, Kitchen Managers in Buffalo can find higher wages in certain neighborhoods:
- Downtown Buffalo: $28.00 per hour
- Elmwood Village: $27.50 per hour
These neighborhoods are known for their bustling dining scenes, offering better pay prospects owing to demand and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Buffalo?
Several factors can influence how much a Kitchen Manager earns in Buffalo, including:
- Experience and Qualifications: More experienced Kitchen Managers with proven leadership skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and large hotels often offer better compensation than smaller casual eateries.
- Skill Set: Expertise in inventory management, budgeting, and staff training can boost earning potential.
- Education and Certifications: Formal training and certifications related to hospitality and food safety can result in higher pay.
- Location Within Buffalo: Areas with high demand or upscale clientele may offer higher wages.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Buffalo
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in Buffalo, consider the following steps and educational options:
- Enroll in Culinary and Hospitality Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Erie Community College and the Hospitality Management Program at Buffalo State College provide essential training in kitchen techniques and management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification ensures knowledge of critical safety standards.
- Consider Management Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Kitchen Manager (CKM) demonstrate advanced kitchen management skills.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Work your way up in kitchen roles to understand operations thoroughly and develop leadership skills.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Buffalo
Several large employers in Buffalo actively recruit skilled Kitchen Managers, including:
- Delaware North
- Rich Products Corporation
- Wegmans Food Markets
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Buffalo Work At
Kitchen Managers typically find employment in a variety of venues, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer stable work but with modest pay scales.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often have fast-paced environments that might provide incentive pay or bonuses.
- Fine Dining Restaurants and Hotels: Tend to offer higher salaries reflecting the complexity and expectations of the kitchen.
- Institutional Kitchens: Such as those in hospitals or universities, providing steady employment with possible benefits.
The type of establishment profoundly impacts salary, with upscale or high-volume operations generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Buffalo for Kitchen Managers
If you're considering roles similar to Kitchen Manager, here are a few related careers you might explore:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Kitchen Manager positions, each offering career pathways within hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Buffalo
Kitchen Managers in Buffalo should be aware of relevant labor laws and taxation rules to protect their rights and manage their earnings: