Kitchen Manager Salary in Elgin, IL
Kitchen Managers in Elgin, IL, 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 Elgin is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Elgin, IL?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Elgin varies depending on experience and the specific employer. Below is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.82 | $1,152.80 | $4,983.47 | $59,929.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.18 | $1,367.20 | $5,918.27 | $71,014.40 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Elgin Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips since their responsibilities focus primarily on managing kitchen operations and staff rather than direct customer service. Their income is mainly derived from their salary.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Elgin, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average hourly wage of around $30.00 and an annual salary of about $62,400.00. This matches the local earnings in Elgin, indicating that salaries here are on par with the national market.
Variation in pay often depends on local economic factors, establishment type, and individual experience.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Elgin for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Kitchen Managers include:
- Downtown Elgin: $31.00 per hour
- West Elgin: $32.00 per hour
Kitchen Managers in West Elgin typically earn slightly more compared to Downtown Elgin, offering potential benefits for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Elgin?
Several key factors affect the salary prospects of a Kitchen Manager in Elgin:
- Experience and Skill Level: More seasoned Kitchen Managers with proven leadership and culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or large catering operations generally offer better compensation than smaller casual eateries.
- Certifications: Possessing food safety and management certifications such as ServSafe Manager Certification or Certified Food Protection Manager can increase earning potential.
- Management Responsibilities: Those overseeing larger teams or multiple kitchen locations often receive higher pay.
- Local Market Demand: The demand for skilled Kitchen Managers within Elgin’s growing hospitality industry also plays a role in salary levels.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Elgin
Getting started or advancing as a Kitchen Manager in Elgin can be achieved by taking specific steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Consider enrolling in programs such as the Elgin Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers hands-on training and the theory needed for kitchen management roles.
- Explore Nearby Program Options: The Kendall College Culinary Arts Program in Chicago is another excellent choice that combines culinary and management training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: It's important to secure certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM), which are required and respected in Illinois.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in kitchen roles and progressively taking on leadership responsibilities builds valuable skills for management.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Elgin
Several well-known establishments frequently seek experienced Kitchen Managers in Elgin, including:
- Portillo's
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Elgin Work At
Kitchen Managers in Elgin are employed across various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically feature moderate salaries with opportunities for advancement.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments may offer slightly lower pay but can provide faster career growth.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher salaries and include benefits.
- Catering Services: Usually require strong organizational skills and can provide competitive wages depending on the size of the operation.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly impact the earning potential of Kitchen Managers in Elgin.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Elgin for Kitchen Managers
If you’re interested in similar roles, here are closely related positions to consider:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef, which share overlapping responsibilities and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Elgin
Kitchen Managers should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Find federal labor laws and guidelines on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Check Illinois-specific employment information at the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
- For local rules and resources, visit the City of Elgin's official site.