Kitchen Manager Salary in Killeen, TX
Kitchen Managers in Killeen, TX, in 2026, earn approximately $27.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,080.00 per week, $4,680.00 per month, and $56,160.00 per year.
The job market for Kitchen Managers in Killeen is growing positively at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for experienced culinary leadership in local establishments.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Killeen, TX?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Killeen varies with experience and qualifications. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.00 | $1,080.00 | $4,680.00 | $56,160.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Killeen Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is primarily derived from their salary.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Killeen vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $30.00 per hour and approximately $62,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Killeen earn slightly less at $27.00 per hour and $56,160 per year, which may reflect regional cost-of-living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Killeen for Kitchen Managers
Salary differences can be seen in nearby areas to Killeen:
- Downtown Killeen: $28.00 per hour
- West Killeen: $29.00 per hour
Kitchen Managers working in West Killeen can expect slightly higher pay compared to other local areas.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Killeen?
Several factors affect how much a Kitchen Manager in Killeen can earn:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Kitchen Managers with proven leadership and culinary skills command higher salaries.
- Skill Set: Knowledge of food safety standards, menu planning, and staff management positively impact earnings.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or hotels typically offer higher wages compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Educational Background: Formal culinary training or management certifications can increase pay potential.
- Geographic Location: Salaries vary across different parts of Killeen and neighboring areas, reflecting local market conditions.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Killeen
To become a Kitchen Manager in Killeen, consider the following steps:
- Culinary Education Programs: Enroll in the Culinary Arts Program at Central Texas College offering hands-on training and essential knowledge for Kitchen Managers.
- Management Training: The Food Service Management Certificate at Texas A&M University-Central Texas prepares candidates for leadership in food service operations.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Manager Certification and the state-mandated Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification, accredited by ANSI, is essential for food safety compliance in Texas.
- Gain Experience: Work in various kitchen roles to develop operational and leadership skills necessary for kitchen management.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Killeen
The following employers actively seek skilled Kitchen Managers in Killeen:
- Pluckers Wing Bar
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
- Chili's
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Killeen Work At
Kitchen Managers in Killeen typically work in:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer a balanced environment with moderate pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues may have faster-paced operations, sometimes with slightly lower pay but valuable experience.
- Full-Service Restaurants: Usually provide higher salaries due to greater responsibilities and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: These can pay higher wages and provide benefits along with more complex management roles.
The type of establishment significantly influences the salary due to differences in scale, menu complexity, and clientele.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Killeen for Kitchen Managers
If you are exploring careers related to Kitchen Manager, consider these similar roles that overlap in skills and responsibilities:
These include Head Chef, Kitchen Supervisor, and Kitchen Manager positions, offering various paths within culinary management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Killeen
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Kitchen Managers working in Killeen.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Texas Workforce Commission provides state-specific employment laws and workforce resources.
- Local resources and community information are available on the Killeen city website.