Kitchen Manager Salary in Durham, NC
Kitchen Managers in Durham, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $26.80 per hour, which translates to about $1,072.00 per week, $4,645.33 per month, and $55,744.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Durham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding market for skilled leadership in food service operations in the area.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Durham can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general look at earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.10 | $844.00 | $3,651.33 | $43,792.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.80 | $1,072.00 | $4,645.33 | $55,744.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.90 | $1,356.00 | $5,862.00 | $70,512.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Durham Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally based on salary or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an approximate average of $26.80 per hour, which amounts to about $55,744 per year.
Comparing this to Durham, NC, salaries for Kitchen Managers align closely with the national average, reflecting a competitive wage level that matches the broader market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Kitchen Managers
Looking at nearby areas within Durham, salary variations include:
- Downtown Durham: $28.50 per hour
- Duke University Area: $27.90 per hour
Kitchen Managers in Downtown Durham typically earn higher salaries compared to those in other parts of the city, likely due to the density of restaurants and higher-end establishments.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Durham?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Kitchen Manager in Durham:
- Experience and Skills: Years of management experience and strong leadership skills can significantly boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often pay more than smaller casual dining venues.
- Certifications: Food safety and sanitation certifications, such as ServSafe Manager Certification, enhance qualifications.
- Shift and Hours: Those managing multiple shifts or working overtime may receive higher compensation.
- Local Market Demand: Durham’s growing food scene and consumer demand affect wage levels for Kitchen Managers.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Durham
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Durham involves a blend of training, certification, and experience:
- Education: Programs like the Durham Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program and The Art Institute of Raleigh-Durham Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in culinary skills and kitchen management.
- Certifications: Obtaining a ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification, which is required by North Carolina law, demonstrates essential knowledge in food safety and sanitation.
- Experience: Gaining experience in various kitchen roles, such as Line Cook or Kitchen Supervisor, helps build the practical skills needed for management.
- Networking: Engaging with local food service professionals and attending industry events can open doors to opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Durham
Many prominent establishments in Durham seek skilled Kitchen Managers, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
- Red Lobster
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Durham Work At
Kitchen Managers in Durham are employed across a diverse range of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering moderate pay with steady schedules.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often with fast-paced environments and varying pay scales.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: Typically offer higher salaries due to the complexity and standards involved.
- Catering Companies: Can provide unique leadership opportunities and variable income.
The type of establishment strongly influences how much a Kitchen Manager can earn and the responsibilities they undertake.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Kitchen Managers
If you are exploring careers related to Kitchen Manager, here are some similar roles you might consider:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Line Cook, and Chef de Cuisine, which involve varying levels of kitchen leadership and culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Durham
Kitchen Managers in Durham should be aware of both federal and state employment laws and regulations:
- For federal labor laws, wages, and employment standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For North Carolina-specific labor laws and business regulations, consult the official North Carolina government website.