Kitchen Manager Salary in Costa Mesa, CA
Kitchen Managers in Costa Mesa, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $28.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,120.00 per week, $4,853.33 per month, and $58,240.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Costa Mesa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for those pursuing careers in kitchen management and restaurant operations in the area.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Costa Mesa, CA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Costa Mesa may vary based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of possible earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.00 | $1,280.00 | $5,493.33 | $66,560.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Costa Mesa Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves managing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come mainly from their salary or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Costa Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $25.00 per hour, which equates to roughly $52,000.00 per year.
In comparison, Kitchen Managers in Costa Mesa earn a higher average salary of about $28.00 per hour and $58,240.00 annually.
This wage difference may be influenced by local factors such as the cost of living and the demand for experienced kitchen leadership in Costa Mesa.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Costa Mesa for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Kitchen Managers, often surpassing the city average:
- Eastside Costa Mesa: $30.00 per hour
- South Coast Metro: $31.00 per hour
Considering a commute to these neighborhoods could provide access to higher-paying Kitchen Manager positions.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Costa Mesa?
Several factors influence a Kitchen Manager’s salary in Costa Mesa, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Kitchen Managers with skills in inventory control, staff management, and culinary knowledge earn higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in kitchen safety, budgeting, and team leadership enhances earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Kitchen Managers working at upscale restaurants or hotels often receive higher salaries than those in casual dining or fast food.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger operations or well-known restaurant groups can offer more competitive compensation packages.
- Work Schedule and Responsibilities: Managing multiple shifts or overseeing larger teams can increase pay.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Costa Mesa
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Costa Mesa involves several key steps to build the necessary expertise and credentials:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Consider pursuing programs such as the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training including kitchen management.
- Explore Formal Culinary Programs: The Art Institute of California – Orange County Culinary Program provides valuable education focused on kitchen operations and management, located nearby in Santa Ana.
- Earn Industry Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) are essential for demonstrating knowledge in food safety and kitchen leadership.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Working in various kitchen roles such as line cook or kitchen supervisor helps build practical experience.
- Develop Strong Management Skills: Leadership, communication, and organizational skills are crucial to advance in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa has numerous venues seeking qualified Kitchen Managers, including:
- Greenleaf Kitchen and Cocktails
- Umami Restaurant Group
- Pitfire Costa Mesa
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Costa Mesa Work At
Kitchen Managers typically work in a variety of foodservice establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer stable schedules and moderate wages with room for advancement.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These may have faster-paced environments with variable pay scales.
- Fine Dining Restaurants and Hotels: Tend to provide higher salaries due to the complexity and prestige of operations.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Often require specialized management skills and can offer competitive compensation.
The type and size of the establishment significantly impact the salary range for Kitchen Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Costa Mesa for Kitchen Managers
If you are exploring similar career options related to Kitchen Management, consider roles in the hospitality industry such as:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Assistant Restaurant Manager positions, which share similar responsibilities and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Costa Mesa
Kitchen Managers should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights. Useful resources include:
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For California-specific workplace regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- The official City of Costa Mesa website offers local information and resources for workers and employers.