Kitchen Manager Salary in Knoxville, TN
Kitchen Managers in Knoxville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $26.10 per hour, which translates to about $1,044.00 per week, $4,524.00 per month, and $54,288.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Knoxville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy expansion in the hospitality and food services industry in the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Knoxville, TN?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Knoxville varies based on experience and employer, offering different pay rates across entry, mid, and top levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.90 | $1,076.00 | $4,660.67 | $55,952.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.50 | $1,300.00 | $5,616.67 | $67,600.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Knoxville Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role is managerial and operational behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally salary-based without tip income.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Knoxville, TN vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $27.40 per hour, translating to about $56,992.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Knoxville earn a bit less, with an average hourly rate of $26.10 and yearly pay of $54,288.00. This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Knoxville for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer slightly different salaries for Kitchen Managers:
- Downtown Knoxville: $28.50 per hour
- West Knoxville: $30.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to West Knoxville or Downtown might find better pay opportunities than in other parts of the city.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Knoxville?
Several important factors influence how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Knoxville:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experience managing kitchens and strong team leadership typically correlate with higher salaries.
- Size and Type of Establishment: Large restaurants, hotels, or catering companies often offer higher pay than small cafes or fast-food outlets.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Culinary education and certifications can boost credibility and wages.
- Operational Responsibilities: Kitchen Managers handling larger teams or multiple locations are usually compensated more.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Knoxville
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Knoxville involves several key steps and can be aided by specialized training and certifications.
- Formal Culinary Training: Programs such as the UT Culinary Certificate Program and Pellissippi State Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational culinary knowledge and skills.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is often required and demonstrates essential food safety knowledge.
- Management Certifications: Earning the Certified Kitchen Manager (CKM) credential from the National Restaurant Association validates managerial expertise.
- Gaining Experience: Working in kitchens in roles like cook or kitchen supervisor before stepping up helps build the practical skills necessary.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Knoxville
Several notable organizations in Knoxville actively hire Kitchen Managers:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Maple Street Biscuit Company
- Knox County Sheriff's Office - CAPP
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Knoxville Work At
Kitchen Managers work in various settings which can affect their salary:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These generally provide stable but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Higher volume can mean busier kitchens but often less managerial pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often offer competitive salaries reflecting the scale of operations.
- Catering Companies: Pay can vary widely depending on client base and event scale.
The salary differences often come down to the complexity, size, and prestige of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Knoxville for Kitchen Managers
If you’re interested in careers related to Kitchen Manager, consider exploring these similar roles:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef, roles closely linked in skill sets and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Knoxville
Kitchen Managers should be familiar with local and federal labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Tennessee for detailed information on labor laws and employment guidelines.
- Check the U.S. Department of Labor's official website for federal labor standards and workplace resources.