Kitchen Manager Salary in Des Moines, IA
Kitchen Managers in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $28.27 per hour, which translates to about $1,130.80 per week, $4,900.13 per month, and $58,801.60 per year.
The job market for Kitchen Managers in Des Moines is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for skilled management in the culinary industry.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Des Moines can vary based on experience level and other factors. Below is an overview of the typical earnings for different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.35 | $894.00 | $3,867.00 | $46,404.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.85 | $1,154.00 | $4,980.67 | $59,968.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.74 | $1,429.60 | $6,179.73 | $74,339.20 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Generally, Kitchen Managers do not earn tips since their role is focused on managing kitchen operations and staff rather than direct customer interaction. Their income primarily comes from their salary or wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of about $28.27 per hour, or approximately $58,801.60 per year.
Kitchen Managers in Des Moines earn salaries that are largely in line with the national average, reflecting the local cost of living and demand for skilled culinary management professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Kitchen Managers
Nearby cities offer slightly varying salaries for Kitchen Managers:
- Cedar Rapids: $29.04 per hour
- Sioux City: $28.26 per hour
Cedar Rapids offers slightly higher compensation compared to Des Moines and Sioux City, possibly due to differing market demands and economic conditions.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several factors can influence how much a Kitchen Manager earns in Des Moines:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced managers with proven leadership and culinary skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale hotels often yields better pay compared to fast food or casual dining restaurants.
- Certifications and Education: Possessing management certifications or culinary credentials can boost income.
- Size of the Kitchen or Operation: Larger kitchens with more staff and complex operations usually offer higher wages.
- Local Economic Conditions: Regional cost of living and business demand impact salary ranges.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Des Moines
Starting a career as a Kitchen Manager in Des Moines typically involves a blend of formal education and hands-on experience.
Consider enrolling in culinary education programs such as the Des Moines Area Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in culinary arts. Another option is the Iowa Culinary Institute at DMACC, providing advanced culinary education and industry networking opportunities.
Obtaining food safety certifications is crucial for management roles. Notable certifications include the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification and the state-specific Certified Food Manager (CFM) certification required by Iowa law.
Gaining experience through kitchen roles, developing strong leadership and organizational skills, and building knowledge in food safety and menu planning are essential steps toward becoming a successful Kitchen Manager.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Des Moines
Several well-known employers currently hire Kitchen Managers in Des Moines, including:
- Casey's
- Kum & Go
- Perkins
- New Horizon Academy Iowa, Inc.
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Des Moines Work At
Kitchen Managers can be found in a variety of food service establishments across Des Moines:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderately competitive salaries and often require multitasking and diverse management skills.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Kitchen Managers in these environments typically manage higher-volume operations but with potentially lower pay.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: These often provide higher compensation due to the complexity and scale of kitchen operations.
- Cafeterias and Institutional Food Services: Salary levels vary but usually fall within the mid-range spectrum depending on size and budget.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly impact a Kitchen Manager's salary, with upscale venues generally offering more lucrative pay packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Kitchen Managers
If you're exploring alternatives or career growth paths similar to Kitchen Manager roles, consider these related positions:
These include Kitchen Manager, Kitchen Supervisor, and Restaurant Manager roles, each offering unique responsibilities and salary ranges within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Des Moines
Kitchen Managers should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the official website of the State of Iowa to access resources about state labor laws, employment standards, and workplace regulations.
- For federal labor laws and workplace standards, consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.