Kitchen Manager Salary in Chattanooga, TN
Kitchen Managers in Chattanooga, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $25.26 per hour, which translates to about $1,010.40 per week, $4,378.40 per month, and $52,540.80 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Chattanooga is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry locally.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Chattanooga, TN?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Chattanooga varies based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.17 | $846.80 | $3,662.93 | $43,955.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.26 | $1,010.40 | $4,378.40 | $52,540.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.15 | $1,206.00 | $5,211.00 | $62,712.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Chattanooga Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily supervisory and operational within the kitchen environment, rather than customer facing.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Chattanooga vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $27.41 per hour, which amounts to about $57,012.80 per year.
Comparatively, Kitchen Managers in Chattanooga earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $25.26 and annual earnings around $52,540.80. This difference reflects regional cost of living variations and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chattanooga for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer some variation in pay for Kitchen Managers:
- Downtown: $27.50 per hour
- North Shore: $26.80 per hour
Those willing to commute to Downtown Chattanooga may find higher salary opportunities than in North Shore, but both areas offer competitive rates.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Chattanooga?
Several factors can influence how much a Kitchen Manager earns in Chattanooga:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers or those with exceptional leadership tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and large hotels typically pay more than casual eateries or fast casual chains.
- Location: Salaries can vary by neighborhood; areas with higher living costs often offer better pay.
- Certifications and Education: Certifications related to food safety and kitchen management can enhance salary prospects.
- Size of the Kitchen and Staff Managed: Managing larger kitchens or multiple teams may come with higher compensation.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Chattanooga
Becoming a Kitchen Manager requires a combination of culinary knowledge, leadership ability, and relevant certifications.
Key steps include:
- Complete a Culinary Education Program: Programs like the Chattanooga State Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training preparing students for various roles in food service.
- Pursue Hospitality Management Courses: The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga offers a Hospitality Management Program that is relevant for understanding kitchen operations extensively.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Professional (CFPP) are highly regarded and often essential for Kitchen Managers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting out as a line cook or kitchen supervisor builds the skills and experience needed to step into a Kitchen Manager role.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Chattanooga
Some of the prominent employers sourcing skilled Kitchen Managers in Chattanooga include:
- Mission BBQ
- Agave & Rye
- Texas Roadhouse
- The Chop House
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Chattanooga Work At
Kitchen Managers in Chattanooga typically find employment in a variety of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often provide steady work hours and moderate pay.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offering higher salaries due to quality standards and complex operations.
- Fast Casual Chains: Usually feature fast-paced environments with moderate wages but good advancement opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: These can offer competitive salaries and benefits across both kitchen and overall food service management.
The type of establishment greatly affects Kitchen Manager salaries due to operational scale, clientele, and complexity of services offered.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chattanooga for Kitchen Managers
If you are considering related career paths, here are a few roles that align closely with Kitchen Manager responsibilities:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef—positions that require leadership and culinary expertise within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Chattanooga
Kitchen Managers should be aware of several labor laws and tax requirements that govern their employment:
- The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development provides comprehensive information on state labor laws and employment resources.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For local government resources and updates, the City of Chattanooga Official Website is a valuable resource.