Kitchen Manager Salary in Columbus, OH
Kitchen Managers in Columbus, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $29.86 per hour, which translates to about $1,194.40 per week, $5,175.73 per month, and $62,108.80 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Columbus is growing steadily at about 2% per year, reflecting positive job growth and expanding opportunities in the foodservice and hospitality industries.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Columbus, OH?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Columbus varies by experience level and the specific employer, but the table below breaks down typical pay ranges.
| 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 Columbus, OH Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role is managerial and behind the scenes, focusing on kitchen operations and staff management rather than direct customer interaction.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Columbus, OH vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn approximately $31.40 per hour and about $65,312 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Columbus earn slightly less, at around $29.86 per hour and $62,108.80 annually.
This reflects the local market conditions and cost of living variations in Columbus, OH.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbus, OH for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas to Columbus offer different salary levels for Kitchen Managers:
- Downtown: $31.00 per hour
- Short North: $32.00 per hour
Kitchen Managers working in Short North can expect slightly higher pay compared to other neighborhoods, reflecting the restaurant scene and clientele.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Columbus?
Experience and Expertise: Kitchen Managers with more years of experience and strong leadership skills are often rewarded with higher salaries.
Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants, hotels, and high-volume facilities tend to offer higher wages compared to casual or fast food establishments.
Size and Location: Larger kitchens or those located in busier parts of Columbus may pay more due to operational complexity.
Certifications and Education: Formal training and certifications in culinary management or food safety can positively impact earnings.
Skill Set: Proficiency in inventory control, staff scheduling, and compliance with health regulations adds value and salary potential.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Columbus, OH
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Columbus involves gaining relevant education and practical experience.
Programs such as the Columbus State Community College Culinary Apprenticeship Program provide hands-on training in culinary arts, preparing students for management roles.
The Franklin University Business Management Program offers education in business principles beneficial for kitchen management responsibilities.
Certifications like ServSafe Manager Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) are important, with CFPM required by Ohio law for at least one person per food service establishment to ensure safety compliance.
Starting as a cook or kitchen supervisor and working up to management through experience is also a practical pathway.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Columbus, OH
Several major employers in Columbus frequently hire Kitchen Managers, including:
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
- Texas Roadhouse
- Applebee's
- Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants
- Dave & Buster's
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Columbus Work At
Kitchen Managers in Columbus can be found working in various settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often require hands-on management and train kitchen staff, with moderate salary levels.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Involve managing fast-paced kitchens which may offer different wage scales compared to sit-down restaurants.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically offer higher pay due to the scale of operations.
- Hospitality and Catering Services: Can provide unique management challenges and accordingly competitive salaries.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in determining a Kitchen Manager's salary due to differences in kitchen size, staff numbers, and operational complexity.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbus, OH for Kitchen Managers
If you are interested in similar careers in the hospitality industry, consider these related roles.
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Executive Chef positions, which share management responsibilities and culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Columbus, OH
Kitchen Managers should be aware of federal and state labor regulations and tax responsibilities to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Federal labor statistics and job outlook information can be found on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
- Details on labor laws and workplace regulations are available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Ohio-specific labor laws and safety regulations can be reviewed on the Ohio Department of Commerce website.