Kitchen Manager Salary in Chesapeake, VA
Kitchen Managers in Chesapeake, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $29.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,160.00 per week, $5,026.67 per month, and $60,320.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Chesapeake is growing positively at about 5% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities and the need for skilled management in food service operations throughout the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Chesapeake, VA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Chesapeake varies based on experience, skills, and workplace, but the following table gives an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,493.33 | $53,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Chesapeake Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips since their primary role is supervisory and operational within the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their compensation typically comes solely from their salary or wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Chesapeake vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $30.00 per hour, translating to about $62,400 per year.
In Chesapeake, the average hourly pay of $29.00 and annual salary of $60,320 are slightly below the national average, but remain competitive with other regions considering local living costs and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chesapeake for Kitchen Managers
Exploring nearby areas, Kitchen Managers can find varying pay rates:
- Norfolk, VA: $30.00 per hour
- Virginia Beach, VA: $32.00 per hour
Virginia Beach offers the highest pay among nearby areas, making it a lucrative option for experienced Kitchen Managers willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Chesapeake?
Several factors influence the salary of a Kitchen Manager in Chesapeake:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers with proven leadership and operational expertise generally command higher pay.
- Size and Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or large hospitality venues usually offers better compensation compared to smaller, casual dining environments.
- Certifications and Education: Additional qualifications, such as culinary or hospitality management certifications, can increase earning potential.
- Location: Proximity to higher-paying urban centers like Virginia Beach may influence wages.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Chesapeake
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Chesapeake involves a mix of education, training, and experience.
Some paths to consider include:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Associate of Applied Science at Tidewater Community College in nearby Virginia Beach offer strong foundational skills in food preparation and hospitality management.
- Advanced Studies: The Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts at ECPI University's Culinary Institute of Virginia in Norfolk provides immersive training on modern cooking techniques and industry standards.
- Relevant Certifications: Achieving credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates professional expertise, while obtaining a Food Handler’s License is required for compliance with Virginia food safety regulations.
- Hands-On Experience: Gaining experience in kitchen roles, perhaps starting as a line cook or kitchen supervisor, builds the skills needed to manage operations effectively.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Chesapeake
Several well-known establishments seek qualified Kitchen Managers in Chesapeake, including:
- T.G.I. Fridays
- Red Robin
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Chesapeake Work At
Kitchen Managers in Chesapeake are commonly employed across various types of food service locations, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Chains and sit-down restaurants offer steady opportunities and competitive pay depending on the brand and clientele.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These provide a faster-paced environment with potentially different salary scales based on volume and reputation.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues typically offer higher salaries and comprehensive benefits, reflecting the complexity of kitchen operations.
- Catering Companies: Offering unique challenges and potentially flexible schedules, catering firms may vary in pay levels.
The type and size of the establishment strongly affect the Kitchen Manager’s salary, responsibilities, and advancement potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chesapeake for Kitchen Managers
If you are exploring related roles within hospitality, several similar careers may interest you, with overlapping skills and salary ranges.
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, each offering unique opportunities within the food and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Chesapeake
Understanding relevant labor laws and tax obligations is important for Kitchen Managers to maintain compliance and fair workplace practices.
- Check out the federal labor laws and employment information provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
- For state-specific legal guidance, the Virginia government website offers resources on employment laws and worker rights.