Kitchen Manager in Irvine, CA
Kitchen Managers in Irvine, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $32.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,300.00 per week, $5,633.33 per month, and $67,600.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Irvine is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for this role with expanding opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Irvine, CA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Irvine depends on their experience level. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings at various stages of a Kitchen Manager's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $32.50 | $1,300.00 | $5,633.33 | $67,600.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.60 | $1,504.00 | $6,506.67 | $78,208.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Irvine Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their roles are managerial and behind the scenes. Their compensation is generally limited to salary or wages without additional tip income.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Irvine vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $29.00 per hour, which adds up to about $60,320.00 per year.
When compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Irvine earn more, with an average hourly rate of $32.50 and an annual salary of $67,600.00.
This difference may be attributed to Irvine’s cost of living, the competitive hospitality market, and demand for experienced Kitchen Managers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Irvine for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Kitchen Managers. Two of the highest-paying locations close to Irvine include:
- Santa Ana: $35.00 per hour
- Newport Beach: $36.50 per hour
Kitchen Managers in Newport Beach can command slightly higher wages than those in Santa Ana, reflecting localized demand and cost variations.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Irvine?
Several factors influence the salary of a Kitchen Manager in Irvine:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Kitchen Managers with proven leadership skills and culinary knowledge earn higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Additional skills such as budgeting, staff management, and certifications in food safety can boost pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or large hotels tend to offer higher salaries compared to fast casual or small eateries.
- Work Hours and Responsibilities: Managers covering peak hours or who take on extra responsibilities may earn more.
- Local Market Demand: Irvine’s competitive market and cost of living contribute to salary variations.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Irvine
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Irvine involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program and Saddleback College Culinary Arts Program offer excellent preparation in culinary techniques and kitchen operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Manager Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification are often required and ensure knowledge of sanitation and safety standards.
- Gain Industry Experience: Begin working in kitchen roles such as line cook or sous chef to build practical skills and leadership abilities.
- Develop Management Skills: Strengthen skills in staff supervision, inventory control, and menu planning.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Irvine
Many notable establishments in Irvine seek experienced Kitchen Managers, including:
- California Pizza Kitchen
- The Stand Restaurants
- Silverlake Ramen
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Irvine Work At
Kitchen Managers in Irvine are employed in a wide variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Restaurants: These provide steady hours but may offer moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically have structured operations, sometimes with standardized pay scales.
- Upscale Dining: Generally offer higher pay due to complexity of kitchen operations and expectations for quality and management.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide higher wages plus benefits due to large-scale kitchen management.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary potential, with luxury and high-volume kitchens paying at the top end of the range.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Irvine for Kitchen Managers
If you’re considering careers similar to Kitchen Manager, here are a few related roles with relevant salary perspectives:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Chef positions, which share overlapping responsibilities and skill sets in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Irvine
Kitchen Managers working in Irvine should be aware of relevant labor and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for information on workplace regulations and labor laws.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources on employment services and state tax obligations.
- For federal labor laws, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.