Kitchen Manager Salary in Fort Lee, NJ
Kitchen Managers in Fort Lee, NJ, in 2026, 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 Fort Lee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and an expanding hospitality industry in the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Fort Lee, NJ?
Kitchen Manager salaries in Fort Lee vary depending on experience, skills, and the establishment. Below is a table showing typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,493.33 | $53,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Fort Lee Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as their role is managerial and primarily behind the scenes, focusing on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Fort Lee vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of about $29.66 per hour, which amounts to roughly $61,692.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Fort Lee earn slightly more at $30.00 per hour and $62,400.00 annually, reflecting the area's cost of living and local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lee for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offering higher salaries for Kitchen Managers include:
- Area 1: $31.00 per hour
- Area 2: $32.00 per hour
Kitchen Managers considering relocation within the region might find increased earning potential slightly north or west of Fort Lee.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Fort Lee?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced managers with strong leadership skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type and Size of the Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or corporate food services usually offers higher pay compared to smaller or fast-food establishments.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and food safety certifications can improve salary prospects.
- Location and Demand: Higher demand in busy metropolitan or affluent areas typically leads to better salaries.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Fort Lee
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in Fort Lee, consider the following steps:
- Gain Experience: Start in culinary roles such as Cook or Sous Chef to gain kitchen operation experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification and the Trust20 Food Protection Manager Certification, recognized by the New Jersey Department of Health, are essential.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Effective management involves coordinating kitchen staff and controlling costs.
- Formal Culinary Education: Completing culinary courses and management training can boost credentials and employment opportunities.
Food Protection Manager Certification and ServSafe Certification are also commonly required to ensure compliance with state health regulations.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Fort Lee
Local employers frequently hiring Kitchen Managers include:
- IPIC Theaters, LLC
- Cater to You
- Hillstone Restaurant Group
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Fort Lee Work At
Kitchen Managers typically work in various types of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady shifts and moderate salaries, with management focused on customer satisfaction and kitchen oversight.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often require fast-paced management skills, with competitive wages reflecting efficiency demands.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide higher salaries and benefits but expect comprehensive management of larger kitchen teams.
- Catering Companies and Theaters: These require flexible management skills and may offer variable pay depending on event schedules.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the Kitchen Manager's salary and job responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lee for Kitchen Managers
For those exploring similar career paths to Kitchen Manager, consider roles such as:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, which share overlapping responsibilities and skill sets with Kitchen Managers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Fort Lee
Kitchen Managers should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper workplace rights.
- New Jersey Department of Health official website provides vital information on health regulations and certifications for foodservice workers.
- U.S. Department of Labor official website offers comprehensive resources on federal labor laws, wage standards, and employee rights.