Kitchen Manager Salary in Clearwater, FL
Kitchen Managers in Clearwater, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $27.61 per hour, which translates to about $1,104.40 per week, $4,785.73 per month, and $57,428.80 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Clearwater is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market for professionals who can efficiently manage kitchen operations and staff in this region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Clearwater, FL?
A Kitchen Manager's salary in Clearwater varies based on experience, skills, and employer type. The following table presents typical earnings across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.58 | $863.20 | $3,738.13 | $44,857.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.61 | $1,104.40 | $4,785.73 | $57,428.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.31 | $1,412.40 | $6,087.60 | $73,444.80 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Clearwater Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their primary role involves overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is mainly through salaried wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Clearwater vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $27.61 per hour and about $57,428.80 annually.
Kitchen Managers in Clearwater earn roughly the same as the national average, reflecting local market alignment with broader industry compensation trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clearwater for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Kitchen Managers:
- Clearwater Beach: $29.50 per hour
- Island Estates: $30.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to Island Estates or Clearwater Beach may find better paying opportunities compared to Clearwater proper.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Clearwater?
Several factors affect how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Clearwater:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Kitchen Managers with proven leadership skills generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and high-volume kitchens tend to offer better compensation than casual or fast-casual outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like ServSafe Manager Certification or Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) can boost earning potential.
- Size and Location of Employer: Larger hotels or resort kitchens in profitable locations usually pay more.
- Skills in Culinary and Staff Management: Strong organizational and culinary skills improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Clearwater
Launching a career as a Kitchen Manager in Clearwater involves several key steps:
- Complete Relevant Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Pinellas Technical College and the Hospitality Management Program at St. Petersburg College provide excellent preparation.
- Earn Certifications: Obtaining nationally recognized certifications like ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) required in Florida demonstrate expertise in food safety.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchen roles like line cook or kitchen supervisor helps build the skills necessary for managing a kitchen.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Proven management abilities are crucial for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Clearwater
Several prominent employers actively seek qualified Kitchen Managers in Clearwater, including:
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Horizons Group Care
- Legacy Restaurant Group
- Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Clearwater Work At
Kitchen Managers typically find employment at various establishments such as:
- Casual Restaurants: These often have steady but moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Dining: Typically pay varies with volume and management complexity.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually offer higher salaries due to scale and expectations.
- Catering Services: Can provide unique management challenges and compensation structures.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with high-end or high-volume kitchens generally offering better pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clearwater for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in positions related to Kitchen Manager, you may consider these similar roles:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Executive Chef, all of which require strong culinary and management skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Clearwater
Understanding labor laws and taxes in Clearwater is crucial for Kitchen Managers:
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Florida-specific labor resources, check the official Florida state portal.