Kitchen Manager Salary in New Orleans, LA
Kitchen Managers in New Orleans, LA, in 2025, earn approximately $22.50 per hour, which translates to about $900.00 per week, $3,900.00 per month, and $46,800.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in New Orleans is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for skilled kitchen management professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in New Orleans, LA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in New Orleans can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in New Orleans Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role involves managing kitchen operations behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from their salary or wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in New Orleans vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $24.00 per hour, translating to about $49,920.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in New Orleans earn slightly less at about $22.50 per hour and $46,800.00 annually.
This variation can be influenced by regional cost of living differences and local industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Orleans for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas feature slightly different pay rates for Kitchen Managers:
- French Quarter: $25.00 per hour
- Garden District: $26.50 per hour
Kitchen Managers working in Garden District tend to earn more compared to those in the French Quarter or New Orleans city proper, possibly due to the types of establishments located there.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in New Orleans?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Kitchen Manager in New Orleans:
- Experience and Skill Level: Kitchen Managers with extensive experience and strong leadership skills often command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies generally offer better compensation than casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Education: Having culinary education or food safety certifications can increase earning potential.
- Size of the Kitchen and Staff: Managing larger kitchens or more staff typically means a higher salary.
- Shift and Responsibilities: More demanding shifts, such as late nights or weekends, may come with additional pay incentives.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in New Orleans
Starting a career as a Kitchen Manager in New Orleans can be supported by following these steps:
- Education: Completing programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Delgado Community College gives foundational knowledge and skills in kitchen operations.
- Practical Training: Participating in the Chef Apprenticeship Program at New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI) provides hands-on experience with the combination of academic coursework essential for kitchen management.
- Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Manager Certification or the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) credential, required by Louisiana Department of Health, ensures understanding of food safety protocols and is often required by employers.
- Work Experience: Starting as a line cook or kitchen supervisor helps build management and culinary skills essential for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in New Orleans
Some of the prominent employers actively looking for skilled Kitchen Managers in New Orleans are:
- Commander's Palace
- Emeril's New Orleans
- Brennan's Restaurant
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in New Orleans Work At
Kitchen Managers typically work at a variety of establishments in New Orleans, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest salaries due to higher standards and clientele expectations.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often provide moderate earnings but can offer more opportunities due to abundance.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer competitive wages and benefits due to the scale of operations.
- Catering Companies: Dynamic work environments that sometimes come with variable pay depending on event scale.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary with fine dining and hotel kitchens generally paying better than casual eateries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Orleans for Kitchen Managers
If you are considering careers related to Kitchen Manager, here are some similar roles you might explore:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share managerial and operational responsibilities in hospitality settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in New Orleans
Kitchen Managers should be mindful of labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper management of their employment conditions:
- For detailed federal labor laws and regulations, visit the Department of Labor website.
- The Louisiana Workforce Commission's official site at laWorks.net provides specific state labor laws and employment resources.
- The City of New Orleans official website offers local regulatory information and resources relevant to workers and employers.