Kitchen Manager Salary in Lakeland, FL
Kitchen Managers in Lakeland, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $27.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,100.00 per week, $4,766.67 per month, and $57,200.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Lakeland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this vital hospitality role.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Lakeland, FL?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Lakeland varies depending on experience, skill level, and the type of establishment. Here's an overview of typical earnings across various levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.50 | $1,100.00 | $4,766.67 | $57,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.50 | $1,340.00 | $5,786.67 | $69,680.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Lakeland Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips since their responsibilities are focused on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service, so their earnings primarily come from their salary or wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Lakeland, FL vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $26.50 per hour, translating to about $55,120.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Lakeland tend to earn slightly more, at about $27.50 per hour and $57,200.00 annually.
This difference may be influenced by local demand, cost of living, and the specific types of food service establishments present in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakeland, FL for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas to Lakeland offer the following hourly pay rates for Kitchen Managers:
- Downtown Lakeland: $28.50 per hour
- South Lakeland: $30.00 per hour
Kitchen Managers working in South Lakeland can expect to earn the highest wages in the vicinity, making it an attractive area for career advancement in this role.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Lakeland, FL?
Several factors can influence a Kitchen Manager's salary in Lakeland:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: Kitchen Managers with extensive experience and strong management abilities are likely to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Managers at upscale restaurants or large hospitality venues often earn more than those in smaller or fast casual kitchens.
- Education and Certifications: Holding culinary degrees or certifications such as ServSafe or Certified Food Protection Manager can increase earning potential.
- Establishment Size and Revenue: Larger operations with higher customer volume typically offer better pay due to increased responsibilities.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with higher demand for skilled kitchen management might offer more competitive salaries.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Lakeland, FL
Growing into a Kitchen Manager role in Lakeland involves a mix of education, certifications, and experience.
Many pursue culinary education programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Lake Technical College, located near Orlando, which offers a Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality program accredited by the American Culinary Federation Foundation.
Alternatively, the Culinary Arts Technology program at Lakeland Community College offers an Associate of Technical Studies in Culinary Arts, combining general education with specialized culinary training, including professional cooking, baking, and food service management.
Certifications are also important. The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for understanding food safety practices, while the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification shows advanced food safety knowledge and is often required for managerial positions.
Hands-on experience in professional kitchens, climbing from cook or assistant roles to supervisory positions, is crucial to gaining the leadership and operational skills needed.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Lakeland, FL
Several notable employers in Lakeland currently hire Kitchen Managers, including:
- Harry's Seafood Bar and Grille
- LongHorn Steakhouse
- Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Lakeland Work At
Kitchen Managers in Lakeland are commonly found in a variety of foodservice settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady work and moderate to high pay depending on the chain and clientele.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often provide dynamic environments but may offer slightly lower pay compared to full-service establishments.
- Fine Dining Venues: Usually pay higher wages reflecting the complexity and expectations involved in kitchen management.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments with comprehensive foodservice operations often provide competitive salaries and benefits.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary levels, with more upscale and high-volume venues typically offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakeland, FL for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in careers related to Kitchen Manager roles, consider exploring these similar positions:
Related roles include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, each offering different responsibilities but closely connected to kitchen management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Lakeland, FL
Kitchen Managers should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax guidelines to ensure compliance and manage their employment effectively.
- Check the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations applicable nationwide.
- For state-specific laws and employment resources, visit Florida's official state website.
- For local government information and resources, consult the City of Lakeland's official website.