Kitchen Manager Salary in Mesa, AZ
Kitchen Managers in Mesa, AZ, in 2026, 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 Mesa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality and food service industries.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Mesa, AZ?
The earnings of a Kitchen Manager in Mesa vary based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Below is an overview of typical salaries across different experience levels.
| 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) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Mesa Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their work is focused on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally composed of salary or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn on average $27.00 per hour, which amounts to about $56,160.00 annually.
When compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Mesa, AZ, earn slightly less hourly at $26.00 per hour, with an annual salary of $54,080.00.
This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living factors in Mesa compared to other areas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mesa for Kitchen Managers
Nearby cities offer competitive salaries for Kitchen Managers including:
- Tempe: $60,169.00 per year
- Scottsdale: $57,489.00 per year
Kitchen Managers in Tempe tend to earn the highest salaries nearby, making commuting an option to consider for higher pay.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Mesa?
Several key factors can influence how much a Kitchen Manager earns in Mesa:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Kitchen Managers with proven leadership tend to command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills in inventory management, staff supervision, and knowledge of food safety regulations add value.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or corporate dining services usually offers better compensation than fast food or casual eateries.
- Location within the Metro Area: Salaries can vary between neighborhoods, with busier or more affluent areas paying more.
- Size of the Kitchen and Staff Managed: Managing larger kitchens or multiple outlets can lead to a higher salary.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Mesa
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Mesa involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications.
- Gain Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as those offered by the Arizona Culinary Institute or Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program to build foundational skills in culinary arts and kitchen management.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Important certifications include the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, recognized nationally, and the Arizona Food Manager Certification, which complies with Maricopa County health regulations.
- Acquire Work Experience: Start in kitchen roles like Cook or Kitchen Supervisor to gain experience before moving up.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Focus on managing teams, scheduling, and inventory to prepare for Kitchen Manager responsibilities.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Mesa
Several well-known establishments in Mesa actively hire Kitchen Managers, including:
- Chick-fil-A
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Thirsty Lion Gastropub
- King's Fish House
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Mesa Work At
Kitchen Managers in Mesa typically find employment across various settings:
- Fast Food Chains: These offer structured environments but often have lower salaries compared to other sectors.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Common work environments with moderate salaries and opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end establishments usually provide better pay and benefits for Kitchen Managers.
- Catering and Event Venues: These positions may involve varied responsibilities and competitive compensation depending on scale.
The type of establishment has a great impact on salary, with upscale settings generally paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mesa for Kitchen Managers
If you are interested in roles similar to Kitchen Manager, consider exploring these related positions:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef, all of which share responsibilities related to managing kitchen operations and staff.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Mesa
Kitchen Managers in Mesa should be aware of the relevant labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment conditions.
- Visit the Arizona Department of Health Services for state health regulations and certifications.
- The Maricopa County Government website provides local health department guidelines and food safety standards.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.