Kitchen Manager Salary in Charlotte, NC
Kitchen Managers in Charlotte, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $28.84 per hour, which translates to about $1,153.60 per week, $4,998.93 per month, and $59,987.20 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Charlotte is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with opportunities increasing annually in the local hospitality and food service industries.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Charlotte, NC?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Charlotte varies depending on experience level and skills. Here is an overview of earnings across different levels of experience in the city.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.88 | $995.20 | $4,299.47 | $51,782.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.51 | $1,140.40 | $4,914.53 | $58,900.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.95 | $1,398.00 | $6,042.00 | $72,696.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Charlotte Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers in Charlotte generally do not earn tips, as their role is primarily managerial and operational behind the scenes rather than customer-facing. Their compensation is usually based on their salary and benefits rather than gratuities.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Charlotte vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn on average about $28.84 per hour, translating to approximately $59,987.20 per year.
Kitchen Managers in Charlotte earn roughly $28.84 per hour, aligning closely with the national average, and about $59,987.20 annually. This reflects a competitive salary consistent with the broader U.S. market for this position.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charlotte for Kitchen Managers
Looking at nearby areas, Kitchen Managers can earn higher salaries in some locations close to Charlotte:
- Huntersville: $30.46 per hour
- Cary: $28.36 per hour
Huntersville offers notably higher hourly pay for Kitchen Managers compared to Charlotte itself, while Cary’s rates are comparable but slightly lower than Charlotte's average.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Charlotte?
Several factors can affect the salary of a Kitchen Manager in Charlotte:
- Experience: More years working in kitchen management or related culinary roles generally lead to higher pay.
- Skills and Certifications: Advanced skills in inventory control, staff management, and food safety certifications can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and large catering companies usually offer better salaries than small or fast casual restaurants.
- Size of Operation: Managing a larger kitchen or team often commands higher compensation due to increased responsibility.
- Local Market Demand: Growing hospitality scenes in Charlotte contribute to salary competitiveness.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Charlotte
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Charlotte involves a combination of education, certifications, and practical experience:
- Formal Culinary Training: Programs like the Central Piedmont Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational skills in food preparation, kitchen operations, and management.
- Advanced Culinary Education: The Johnson & Wales University Charlotte Campus Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive training with a focus on both practical and theoretical knowledge to prepare for leadership roles.
- Food Safety Certifications: Earning credentials such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) demonstrates essential knowledge of food safety and health regulations, often required for Kitchen Managers.
- Gain Experience: Working your way up through positions such as line cook, kitchen supervisor, or assistant kitchen manager helps build the skills needed.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Charlotte
Several notable employers in Charlotte seek experienced Kitchen Managers:
- Snooze an AM Eatery
- Condado Tacos
- East Coast Wings + Grill
- White Duck Taco Shop
- Honey Baked Ham Co. LLC
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Charlotte Work At
Kitchen Managers in Charlotte typically work in various food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate pay and opportunities to manage diverse kitchen teams.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often provide steady work environments but may have lower salaries compared to higher-end restaurants.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments tend to pay higher salaries owing to their larger scale and complexity.
- Catering Companies: Demand strong organizational skills, often with competitive pay based on contract size.
The nature of the establishment significantly influences Kitchen Manager salaries, with upscale or larger-scale operations generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charlotte for Kitchen Managers
If interested in roles related to Kitchen Management, consider exploring similar hospitality positions:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, all roles that share some responsibilities or career progression paths with Kitchen Managers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Charlotte
Kitchen Managers should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper financial management:
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor for federal employment laws and regulations.
- Visit the State of North Carolina website for state-specific labor laws and worker rights.
- For local regulations and government services, refer to the City of Charlotte official website.