Kitchen Manager Salary in Columbia, MD
Kitchen Managers in Columbia, MD, in 2025, earn approximately $30.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,200.00 per week, $5,200.00 per month, and $62,400.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Columbia is relatively stagnant with a growth rate close to 0% per year, indicating that job opportunities are steady without significant expansion or decline expected in the near future.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Columbia, MD?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Columbia can vary depending on experience and level of responsibility, but here is an overview for 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 Columbia, MD Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily supervisory and operational within the kitchen, rather than in direct contact with customers. Their compensation is typically based solely on salary or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Columbia, MD vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average hourly wage of $30.00, which corresponds to about $62,400 per year.
Kitchen Managers in Columbia, MD earn roughly the same as the national average, making Columbia a competitive region in terms of Kitchen Manager pay.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbia for Kitchen Managers
Kitchen Managers in nearby areas tend to earn the following hourly wages:
- Annapolis: $68.00 per hour
- Gaithersburg: $70.00 per hour
These areas offer significantly higher pay for Kitchen Managers compared to Columbia, MD, and might be attractive for those seeking higher compensation within commuting distance.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Columbia, MD?
Several factors impact how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Columbia, including:
- Experience: More experienced Kitchen Managers tend to command higher wages due to their expertise in managing kitchen operations and staff.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in inventory management, food safety, and team leadership increases value to employers.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or catering companies often pay more than casual dining or fast food locations.
- Size and Complexity of Operation: Larger kitchens with greater staff and menu complexity usually require more skilled managers commanding higher pay.
- Local Market Conditions: Economic factors and demand for food service management in the region influence salary ranges.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Columbia, MD
Becoming a Kitchen Manager typically requires a combination of food service experience and leadership skills, with the following pathways enhancing job prospects:
- Educational Programs: Completing programs such as the Howard Community College Culinary Arts Program or the University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hospitality and Tourism Management Program can provide valuable culinary and management knowledge.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Manager Certification or the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) demonstrates competency in food safety and sanitation, often required for Kitchen Management roles in Maryland.
- Work Experience: Starting as a line cook or kitchen supervisor to gain operational and leadership experience is crucial.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Columbia, MD
Several well-known employers actively hire Kitchen Managers in Columbia, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Columbia, MD Work At
Kitchen Managers find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady management jobs with moderate salary levels.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Offering quicker pace environments often with a focus on efficiency, sometimes resulting in slightly lower wages than fine dining.
- Hotels and Catering Firms: Larger-scale operations where Kitchen Managers oversee complex kitchen systems tend to pay more.
- Specialty and Ethnic Cuisine Restaurants: May offer varied pay depending on reputation and business size.
The type and scale of the establishment considerably affect the salary potential for a Kitchen Manager in Columbia.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbia, MD for Kitchen Managers
If you're exploring roles similar to Kitchen Manager, consider these alternatives which share many skills and responsibilities:
These roles include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef, all offering different perspectives and responsibilities within food service leadership.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Columbia, MD
Kitchen Managers should stay informed regarding labor laws and workplace safety standards applicable in Maryland.
- Visit the Maryland Department of Labor website for information on employment laws and worker rights.
- Consult the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for federal guidelines on workplace safety, including for the food service industry.