Kitchen Manager Salary in Little Rock, AR
Kitchen Managers in Little Rock, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $26.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,040.00 per week, $4,506.67 per month, and $54,080.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Little Rock is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy upward trend in job opportunities and the importance of effective kitchen management in the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Little Rock, AR?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Little Rock can vary depending on experience level and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.00 | $1,160.00 | $5,006.67 | $60,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,866.67 | $70,720.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Little Rock Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as they primarily oversee kitchen operations rather than engage in direct customer service. Their compensation typically comes solely from their salary or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Little Rock vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $28.00 per hour, translating to approximately $58,240.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Little Rock earn slightly less at about $26.00 per hour and $54,080.00 annually. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little Rock for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Kitchen Managers:
- North Little Rock: $29.80 per hour
- Conway: $31.60 per hour
Kitchen Managers working in Conway stand to earn the most among the nearby regions, with pay rates higher than those in Little Rock itself.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Little Rock?
Multiple factors impact a Kitchen Manager’s earnings in Little Rock, including:
- Experience Level: More years managing kitchen staff and operations typically lead to higher pay.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge in food safety, inventory control, and team leadership can increase salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotel kitchens often pay more than fast casual or smaller venues.
- Size of Establishment: Larger kitchens with more staff typically require more responsibility and may offer higher wages.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Economic conditions and regional factors affect salary ranges.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Little Rock
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in Little Rock, consider the following steps:
- Education: Enroll in culinary and hospitality programs such as those offered at Pulaski Technical College Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute or the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Hospitality Management Program. These programs provide valuable practical skills and knowledge relevant to kitchen management.
- Certifications: Obtain essential certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification, which is nationally recognized, and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM), required by Arkansas law for food establishments.
- Gain Experience: Start in kitchen roles such as Cook or Kitchen Supervisor to build leadership and operational expertise.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Managing teams, organizing workflow, and maintaining food safety practices are critical competencies.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Little Rock
Several prominent employers in Little Rock hire Kitchen Managers, including:
- Golden Corral
- Texas Roadhouse
- Wellington Woods Memory Care
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Little Rock Work At
Kitchen Managers in Little Rock can be found working in various establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady schedules and moderate salaries.
- Family-Style Restaurants: Emphasize customer service and menu variety, with earnings varying by size and concept.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically offer higher pay and additional benefits due to the complexity of kitchen operations.
- Healthcare Facilities and Care Homes: Require adherence to strict food safety regulations; salaries may vary accordingly.
The type and scale of the establishment play a significant role in compensation and work responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little Rock for Kitchen Managers
If you're exploring careers related to Kitchen Manager positions, the following roles share similar responsibilities or career paths:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, each offering distinct career opportunities within hospitality and food service management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Little Rock
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Kitchen Managers in Little Rock to ensure compliance and proper workplace practices.
- Relevant federal labor regulations and employment rights can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Information specific to Arkansas state laws, including labor and employment resources, is available at the Arkansas government website.