Kitchen Manager Salary in Norfolk, VA
Kitchen Managers in Norfolk, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $29.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,160.00 per week, $5,026.67 per month, and $60,320.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Norfolk is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the hospitality and food service industry in this area.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Norfolk, VA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Norfolk can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,493.33 | $53,920.00 |
| 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 Norfolk Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is primarily based on salary or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Norfolk, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $29.00 per hour, which equates to approximately $60,320.00 per year.
Comparing this to Norfolk, VA, salaries for Kitchen Managers are in line with the national average, both hourly and annually, reflecting a competitive wage environment in the city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norfolk for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer varied pay for Kitchen Managers, including:
- Virginia Beach: $27.83 per hour
- Chesapeake: $26.92 per hour
Virginia Beach tends to offer slightly higher pay compared to Chesapeake, but both are competitive markets close to Norfolk.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Norfolk?
Several factors influence how much a Kitchen Manager in Norfolk earns. Important elements include:
- Experience: More years managing kitchens typically translate into higher salaries.
- Skill Set: Proficiency in inventory control, staff management, and food safety can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or large-scale operations often pay more than casual dining locations.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary or hospitality degrees and certifications can raise a Kitchen Manager's value.
- Location: Proximity to busy urban centers or tourist areas may influence wages.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Norfolk
Becoming a Kitchen Manager involves education, training, and skills development. Steps include:
- Enroll in culinary or hospitality management programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Tidewater Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at Norfolk State University.
- Obtain relevant certifications like ServSafe Manager Certification, which emphasizes food safety, or the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) recognized in Virginia.
- Gain experience in kitchen roles such as a cook or kitchen supervisor to develop operational and leadership skills.
- Develop strong management and organizational skills critical for overseeing kitchen staff and maintaining smooth kitchen workflow.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Norfolk
Some of the well-known establishments actively hiring Kitchen Managers in Norfolk include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Topgolf
- Mission BBQ
- The Dirty Buffalo
- Royal Farms
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Norfolk Work At
Kitchen Managers in Norfolk typically work in a variety of food service establishments, including:
- Casual dining restaurants: Often provide steady work and moderate pay.
- Fast casual or quick-service restaurants: Usually involve fast-paced environments with emphasis on efficiency.
- Fine dining or upscale restaurants: Tend to offer higher salaries due to the complexity and quality standards of the kitchen operation.
- Hotels and catering companies: Can offer broader management experiences and sometimes better pay and benefits.
The type of establishment directly impacts salary, with upscale and hotel kitchens typically offering higher wages to accommodate the skills needed to operate efficiently.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norfolk for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in careers similar to Kitchen Manager, consider exploring these related roles within hospitality:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef roles, all of which involve significant responsibilities in culinary operations and staff management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Norfolk
Kitchen Managers in Norfolk need to be aware of their rights and obligations under local and federal labor laws, as well as tax requirements.
- For detailed labor regulations in Virginia, visit the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry website.
- For federal tax information, refer to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) official website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website offers comprehensive resources on employment laws and workplace safety.