Kitchen Manager Salary in Norman, OK
Kitchen Managers in Norman, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $26.80 per hour, which translates to about $1,072.00 per week, $4,645.33 per month, and $55,744.00 per year.
The job market for Kitchen Managers in Norman is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled professionals managing kitchen operations in the area.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Norman, OK?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Norman can vary depending on factors such as experience, employer, and establishment type. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.60 | $1,024.00 | $4,426.67 | $53,248.00 |
| 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 Norman Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role involves overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is primarily salary-based without additional tip income.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Norman vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $30 per hour, which comes to approximately $62,400 per year.
In Norman, OK, Kitchen Managers earn slightly less than the national average, with an average hourly wage of $26.80 and a yearly salary of $55,744.
This difference can reflect local cost of living, business size, and demand for Kitchen Managers in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norman for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer the following average hourly salaries for Kitchen Managers:
- Area 1: $27.50 per hour
- Area 2: $28.30 per hour
These neighboring locations provide slightly better compensation, which might attract Kitchen Managers willing to commute for higher pay.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Norman?
Several factors influence how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Norman:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers with excellent leadership, organizational, and culinary skills typically earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Positions at high-end restaurants, hotels, or large institutions often pay more than smaller or fast-food venues.
- Size of Operation: Managing kitchens with larger staff or complexity can command greater compensation.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training and certifications in food safety improve salary potential.
- Local Market Conditions: Cost of living and local demand affect wages significantly.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Norman
Becoming a successful Kitchen Manager in Norman involves several key steps:
- Enroll in culinary education programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Moore Norman Technology Center, which offers training in kitchen management, food preparation, and safety standards.
- Consider programs like Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Oklahoma, which cover food service operations and leadership.
- Obtain important certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification, a nationally recognized credential focusing on food safety, which is essential for Kitchen Managers.
- Acquire the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification, required by Oklahoma law to ensure knowledge in food safety regulations.
- Gain practical experience by working in various kitchen roles to build operational and management expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Norman
Some of the leading employers in Norman seeking qualified Kitchen Managers include:
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Red Lobster
- Olive Garden
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Norman Work At
Kitchen Managers in Norman typically work in a variety of foodservice settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide stable wages with opportunities for advancement.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Usually have fast-paced environments with moderate salaries.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer higher pay due to scale and guest expectations.
- Institutional Kitchens (Hospitals, Schools): Can offer reliable employment and benefits with competitive pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment often influence the salary level for Kitchen Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norman for Kitchen Managers
For those interested in related fields, here are some positions similar to Kitchen Manager to explore:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, offering different scopes of responsibility and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Norman
Kitchen Managers should be familiar with both state and federal labor regulations to ensure proper compliance and fair treatment.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Oklahoma for information on labor laws, employment rights, and wage standards.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official website for federal workplace laws and regulations affecting Kitchen Managers.