Kitchen Manager Salary in Omaha, NE
Kitchen Managers in Omaha, NE, in 2025, earn approximately $27.50 per hour, which amounts to about $1,100.00 per week, $4,766.67 per month, and $57,200.00 per year.
With a positive job growth rate of around 5% per year, the demand for Kitchen Managers in Omaha is increasing steadily, reflecting a growing hospitality and restaurant industry in the area.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Omaha, NE?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Omaha varies depending on experience, skills, and the employing establishment. Below is an overview by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.20 | $888.00 | $3,840.00 | $46,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.50 | $1,100.00 | $4,766.67 | $57,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.30 | $1,332.00 | $5,740.00 | $68,640.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Omaha Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on managing kitchen operations behind the scenes rather than direct service to customers. Their earnings primarily come from their salary or hourly wage.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Omaha vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of about $29.20 per hour and $60,736 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Omaha earn slightly less, with an hourly wage of $27.50 and an annual salary of approximately $57,200. This reflects regional cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Omaha for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas in and around Omaha offer competitive wages for Kitchen Managers:
- Downtown Omaha: $29.50 per hour
- West Omaha: $28.70 per hour
Those working in Downtown Omaha generally see the highest hourly rates, likely due to the density of upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Omaha?
Several key factors affect how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Omaha:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers with strong leadership and organizational skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and large catering companies typically pay more compared to fast casual or small independent eateries.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education or certifications, such as ServSafe Manager Certification, can enhance salary potential.
- Size and Location of Employer: Larger operations in prominent locations often offer higher pay to attract qualified managers.
- Local Market Demand: The demand for skilled kitchen management in Omaha’s growing hospitality sector drives wage levels up.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Omaha
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Omaha involves several steps and potential educational pathways including:
- Culinary Arts Training: Programs like the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive skills in kitchen management, food safety, and menu planning.
- Hospitality Management Education: The University of Nebraska at Omaha offers Hospitality Management Programs with a focus on restaurant operations and kitchen management.
- Food Safety Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Manager Certification is essential, along with the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification mandated by Nebraska law.
- Work Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles and progressing through supervisory positions helps build necessary experience.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Omaha
Some of the leading employers seeking Kitchen Managers in Omaha include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Perkins Restaurants & Bakery
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Omaha Work At
Kitchen Managers find employment across various types of establishments each influencing compensation differently.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher salaries due to complex kitchen operations and higher customer expectations.
- Casual Dining: Provide moderate pay with opportunities for advancement within growing chains.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: May offer lower wages but present opportunities in large volume kitchens.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay competitive salaries with benefits, especially for those managing large-scale operations.
- Catering Companies: Salaries may vary widely depending on company size and event scope.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Omaha for Kitchen Managers
If you are interested in careers similar to Kitchen Manager, you might consider roles such as Head Chef, Food and Beverage Manager, or Restaurant Manager.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Omaha
Kitchen Managers should be aware of both federal and Nebraska state labor laws that regulate wages, working hours, and workplace safety.
- Information on federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific regulations, the Nebraska Department of Labor website is a valuable resource.