Kitchen Manager Salary in Houston, TX
Kitchen Managers in Houston, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $28.07 per hour, which translates to about $1,122.80 per week, $4,865.47 per month, and $58,385.60 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Houston is growing moderately at about 2% per year, indicating a stable and gradually expanding job market for this essential role within the food service industry.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Houston, TX?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Houston varies based on experience, skill level, and the type of establishment. Below is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,973.33 | $47,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,066.67 | $72,800.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Houston Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their responsibilities focus on managing kitchen operations behind the scenes rather than direct customer service.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Houston vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of about $31.40 per hour, which equates to roughly $65,312 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Houston earn slightly less at around $28.07 per hour and $58,385.60 per year. This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Houston for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer various rates for Kitchen Managers, including:
- Pearland: $28.85 per hour
- Cypress: $23.67 per hour
Pearland positions tend to offer slightly higher wages, possibly reflecting differences in local industry and employer demand.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Houston?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Houston is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Expertise: Those with extensive experience managing kitchens and staff tend to command higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills in inventory management, budgeting, and culinary knowledge, along with certifications like ServSafe Manager, can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often pays more than in casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Size of the Operation: Larger kitchens or multiple-location operations may offer higher salaries due to greater responsibilities.
- Local Market Demand: Economic conditions and regional food culture affect compensation levels.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Houston
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in Houston, consider the following steps:
- Education and Training: Enroll in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Houston Community College or the Professional Chef Program at The Art Institute of Houston for comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) required by Texas are crucial for demonstrating food safety expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Build experience by working in kitchens as a cook, sous chef, or supervisor to develop skills and industry knowledge.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Strong management and communication skills are essential to effectively lead kitchen staff and operations.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Houston
Several prominent employers in Houston actively hire Kitchen Managers, including:
- Puttshack
- My Fit Foods
- Sodexo
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Houston Work At
Kitchen Managers in Houston typically find employment across a range of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often have moderate pay scales but offer valuable experience managing diverse kitchen teams.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These establishments may offer slightly lower salaries but provide fast-paced work environments.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Usually offer higher wages due to scale and complexity of operations.
- Specialty and Fine Dining: Tend to pay top-tier wages for highly skilled Kitchen Managers.
The type of establishment impacts the earnings potential significantly, with larger or more upscale venues typically offering higher salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Houston for Kitchen Managers
If you are exploring career options related to being a Kitchen Manager, consider roles such as:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, all of which share responsibilities in managing food service operations and staff, with varying scopes and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Houston
Kitchen Managers should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment.
- Consult the federal website for labor laws and regulations to understand overarching workplace policies and rights.
- Refer to the State of Texas workforce commission website for localized employment laws, wage standards, and tax resources.