Kitchen Manager Salary in Lubbock, TX
Kitchen Managers in Lubbock, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $25.53 per hour, which translates to about $1,021.20 per week, $4,425.20 per month, and $53,102.40 per year.
The job market for Kitchen Managers in Lubbock is growing at a healthy rate of around 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for experienced leadership to oversee kitchen operations in the area's bustling food service industry.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Lubbock, TX?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Lubbock varies based on experience, skills, and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings at different levels of proficiency.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.74 | $909.60 | $3,940.40 | $47,404.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.26 | $1,050.40 | $4,548.53 | $54,620.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.79 | $1,231.60 | $5,324.27 | $63,203.20 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Lubbock Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on management and kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation comes primarily through salary or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Lubbock vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers make an average of about $28.02 per hour and roughly $58,281.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Lubbock earn slightly less on the hourly rate at $25.53 but maintain a competitive annual salary due to consistent work weeks.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lubbock for Kitchen Managers
Exploring nearby areas reveals some variation in salaries for Kitchen Managers:
- South Overton: $27.50 per hour
- Tech Terrace: $28.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to Tech Terrace or South Overton may find higher wages reflective of those areas' demand and cost of living.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Lubbock?
Several major factors impact how much a Kitchen Manager in Lubbock can earn:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More seasoned Kitchen Managers with proven team leadership and operational experience command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or hotels generally pay better than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Certifications: Certifications related to food safety and kitchen operations enhance job prospects and pay potential.
- Size and Volume of Operations: Managing a larger kitchen with complex menus often comes with increased responsibility and compensation.
- Local Market Demand: Demand for Kitchens Managers in Lubbock and the surrounding areas helps determine pay levels.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Lubbock
Becoming a Kitchen Manager involves developing a blend of culinary skills, management knowledge, and certifications.
One can pursue formal education programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at South Plains College, which offers comprehensive training in culinary skills and kitchen management, preparing students for leadership roles.
The Hospitality Management Program at Texas Tech University is another valuable resource, providing education in hospitality operations including food and beverage management, which is essential for aspiring Kitchen Managers.
Certifications are often required or preferred employers, including the nationally recognized ServSafe Manager Certification, which focuses on critical food safety practices.
Additionally, the Certified Food Manager (CFM) License is a Texas-specific certification ensuring knowledge of state food safety regulations and is often mandatory for managerial roles in food service.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Lubbock
Several prominent companies and chains actively seek skilled Kitchen Managers in the Lubbock area, such as:
- Chick-fil-A
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Lubbock Work At
Kitchen Managers work across various types of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady hours and moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Generally have a faster pace, and pay may vary depending on the chain or franchise.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually offer higher pay and additional responsibilities tied to catering and banquet services.
- Full-Service Restaurants: May offer more opportunities for higher salaries due to complexity of menu and staff management.
The type of establishment significantly affects the **salary** since more upscale venues often require more expertise and offer better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lubbock for Kitchen Managers
If you're considering roles related to Kitchen Manager positions, here are some similar hospitality jobs worth exploring:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Kitchen Manager roles, which share responsibilities related to kitchen operations and food service management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Lubbock
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is critical for Kitchen Managers to maintain compliance and manage their careers effectively.
- Visit the Texas government website for official resources on state labor laws, wage standards, and employment rights.
- The Texas Workforce Commission's website offers valuable information on employment services, workforce development, and compliance requirements.