Kitchen Manager Salary in Fairfield, CA
Kitchen Managers in Fairfield, CA in 2026, earn approximately $37.69 per hour, which translates to about $1,507.60 per week, $6,532.93 per month, and $78,395.20 per year.
The job outlook for Kitchen Managers is positive with a growth rate of about 10% per year, indicating a strong demand and expanding opportunities for this role in Fairfield and surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Fairfield, CA?
The salary for a Kitchen Manager in Fairfield varies depending on experience and the specific employer. Here’s a breakdown of typical salary ranges by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $31.25 | $1,250.00 | $5,416.67 | $65,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $37.69 | $1,507.60 | $6,532.93 | $78,395.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.42 | $1,576.80 | $6,789.60 | $81,993.60 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Fairfield Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on the operational and management side of kitchen work rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are typically salary or wage-based only.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Fairfield vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $30.77 per hour, equating to approximately $64,001.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Fairfield enjoy a significantly higher hourly wage of $37.69 and annual earnings close to $78,395.20.
This difference can be attributed to the local cost of living, demand, and the presence of more upscale dining establishments requiring experienced management.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fairfield for Kitchen Managers
Nearby locations offer varying salary levels for Kitchen Managers:
- Downtown Fairfield: $38.46 per hour
- Cordelia: $39.42 per hour
Kitchen Managers in Cordelia tend to earn the highest wages nearby, reflecting perhaps more competitive restaurant markets or larger operations.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Fairfield?
Several factors contribute to how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Fairfield:
- Experience Level: More years in kitchen management significantly increase pay, as seasoned managers bring leadership and efficiency skills.
- Skillset: Knowledge of kitchen operations, staff management, inventory control, and food safety certifications can boost salary.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, catering companies, and health or corporate cafeterias offer varying pay scales.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications like ServSafe often correlate with higher compensation.
- Location: Salaries can differ by neighborhood or the size of the establishment within Fairfield and surroundings.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Fairfield
Pursuing a career as a Kitchen Manager in Fairfield generally involves several key steps and qualifications:
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Solano Community College provide hands-on kitchen management and cooking training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Credentials like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification or the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification are highly regarded and often required.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Many start as line cooks or kitchen supervisors and work their way up to managerial roles.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Strong communication and organizational abilities are crucial for effectively managing kitchen teams and operations.
- Consider Hospitality Management Education: Napa Valley College's Hospitality Management Program is also beneficial for understanding broader restaurant business operations.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Fairfield
Several prominent companies in Fairfield regularly seek skilled Kitchen Managers:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Trinity Services Group, Inc.
- Aramark
- Red Lobster
- Chevys
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Fairfield Work At
Kitchen Managers hold pivotal roles across a variety of dining and food service establishments in Fairfield, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often require versatile managers who can oversee food prep and customer satisfaction, typically with moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Tend to have fast-paced environments and can offer different compensation based on volume and complexity.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Usually pay more due to larger operations and complex event management.
- Corporate and Institutional Kitchens: Hospitals, schools, and corporate cafeterias employ Kitchen Managers who may enjoy stable schedules but variable pay scales.
The type and scale of the establishment have a substantial impact on salary levels, with larger and upscale venues generally offering more lucrative compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fairfield for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in roles similar to Kitchen Manager, below are a few related careers you might consider, each offering different paths within the hospitality sector:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Chef positions, which each involve different responsibilities but share a close connection in hospitality management and culinary skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Fairfield
Kitchen Managers should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax guidelines to safeguard their rights and understand their responsibilities.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor laws, regulations, and workplace safety information.
- Check with the California Employment Development Department for state employment services, unemployment benefits, and tax information.
- For federal labor laws and employee rights, the U.S. Department of Labor provides resources and guidance.