Kitchen Manager Salary in Lakewood, CO
Kitchen Managers in Lakewood, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $30.85 per hour, which translates to about $1,234.00 per week, $5,347.33 per month, and $64,168.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Lakewood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for professionals in this role.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Lakewood, CO?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Lakewood varies depending on experience, establishment, and skills. Here is a breakdown of earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.14 | $1,005.60 | $4,364.00 | $52,272.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.85 | $1,234.00 | $5,327.33 | $64,168.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.50 | $1,500.00 | $6,500.00 | $78,000.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Lakewood, CO 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 typically limited to salary and wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Lakewood, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of about $29.80 per hour and approximately $61,984 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Lakewood earn slightly more, at around $30.85 per hour and $64,168 annually. This can be attributed to local market conditions and cost of living factors in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakewood for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas to Lakewood offer varying salaries for Kitchen Managers:
- Wheat Ridge: $30.11 per hour
- Denver: $27.73 per hour
Those seeking higher pay for Kitchen Manager roles near Lakewood may consider Wheat Ridge, which offers slightly higher hourly wages.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Lakewood, CO?
Experience and Expertise: Kitchen Managers with more years of managing culinary teams and operational experience typically command higher salaries.
Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or large catering operations often leads to increased pay compared to small cafes or fast-food kitchens.
Certifications and Education: Holding relevant certifications such as ServSafe Certification or Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) can boost salary prospects.
Skills and Leadership: Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills that improve kitchen efficiency are valued and rewarded.
Location and Cost of Living: Salaries adjust to local economic conditions; Lakewood’s proximity to Denver and other urban centers influences pay scales.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Lakewood, CO
Starting a career as a Kitchen Manager in Lakewood involves several important steps:
- Gain Culinary Experience: Begin by working in kitchen roles such as line cook or kitchen supervisor to develop hands-on skills.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) are essential for managing kitchen safety and compliance.
- Pursue Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as those offered by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts located nearby in Boulder for comprehensive culinary and management training.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Focus on interpersonal skills and team management, as Kitchen Managers must lead and coordinate kitchen staff effectively.
- Seek Advancement Opportunities: Progress from supervisory kitchen roles to management by demonstrating competence and reliability.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Lakewood, CO
Several well-known employers in Lakewood actively hire Kitchen Managers, including:
- Tokyo Joe's
- Red Robin
- Chipotle
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Lakewood, CO Work At
Kitchen Managers in Lakewood commonly work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady employment with moderate salaries, focusing on menu variety and customer experience.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often emphasize efficiency and fast service; pay can be competitive depending on the brand and location.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: Typically offer higher salaries and benefits due to the larger scale and complexity of operations.
- Catering Companies: Working in catering involves managing food preparation for large events, which can affect pay based on project scope.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the salary and job responsibilities, with upscale and larger-scale operations generally offering higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakewood, CO for Kitchen Managers
If you're considering careers related to Kitchen Manager roles, here are some similar positions in the hospitality industry:
These positions include Kitchen Manager, Kitchen Supervisor, and Restaurant Manager, which all involve leadership roles within food service operations and have comparable salary prospects.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Lakewood, CO
Kitchen Managers should stay informed about labor regulations and tax requirements relevant to their employment in Lakewood and Colorado.
- Access Colorado's official government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws, wage standards, and worker rights.
- Visit the City and County of Denver's website for local regulations and resources that may impact employment and taxation policies.