Kitchen Manager Salary in Pasadena, CA
Kitchen Managers in Pasadena, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $30.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,200.00 per week, $5,200.00 per month, and $62,400.00 per year.
The job market for Kitchen Managers is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for skilled professionals who can efficiently oversee kitchen operations in the Pasadena area.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Pasadena, CA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Pasadena depends on experience and location within the area. Below is a breakdown showing various experience levels for this position.
| 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 Pasadena Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as their primary responsibilities are managerial and involve overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from their fixed salaries or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Pasadena vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $24.00 per hour, which translates to about $49,920.00 per year.
Compared to this, Kitchen Managers in Pasadena earn notably more, with median wages at about $30.00 per hour and annual salaries approximately $62,400. This reflects both the higher cost of living in California and the demand for experienced kitchen management in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pasadena for Kitchen Managers
Nearby cities offer varying salaries for Kitchen Managers, showing where the highest pay can be found close to Pasadena:
- Glendale: $59.00 per hour
- West Hollywood: $32.00 per hour
Kitchen Managers commuting to Glendale can earn substantially higher wages compared to Pasadena or West Hollywood. This may be due to larger or more upscale dining establishments demanding more experienced management.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Pasadena?
Several key factors affect a Kitchen Manager's salary in Pasadena:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More seasoned Kitchen Managers with proven leadership capabilities command higher wages.
- Type and Size of Establishment: High-end restaurants or large catering companies typically offer increased compensation compared to smaller eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Having formal culinary management education or certifications such as ServSafe Manager Certification improves salary prospects.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in inventory control, staff training, and health compliance can enhance earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Taking on overnight or weekend shifts may lead to additional pay.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Pasadena
Steps to pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in Pasadena include:
- Gain Culinary and Management Training: Programs at institutions like Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts and Los Angeles Trade-Technical College offer solid foundations rooted in culinary skills and management principles.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: Earning certifications such as the nationally recognized ServSafe Manager Certification and the California-mandated Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) ensure readiness to comply with food safety regulations.
- Accumulate Experience in Kitchens: Working as a Cook, Line Cook, or Supervisor helps build practical knowledge necessary for managerial roles.
- Develop Leadership Competencies: Skills in team management, communication, and problem-solving are crucial to success as a Kitchen Manager.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Pasadena
Some prominent employers regularly seeking Kitchen Managers in Pasadena include:
- Tender Greens
- The Stand Restaurants
- California Pizza Kitchen
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Pasadena Work At
Kitchen Managers in Pasadena are employed across various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often provide steady work but may offer moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Fast casual spots emphasize efficiency and may pay competitive wages for skilled management.
- High-End Restaurants and Hotels: Luxury venues typically offer higher pay due to complex operations and elevated standards.
- Catering and Event Companies: These require adaptive Kitchen Managers who can handle diverse and large-scale food preparation challenges.
The prestige, size, and clientele of the establishment significantly influence the salary range within the Kitchen Manager role.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pasadena for Kitchen Managers
If you are interested in related positions within hospitality that align with skills gained as a Kitchen Manager, consider roles such as Executive Chef, Restaurant Manager, or Food and Beverage Manager.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Pasadena
Kitchen Managers should familiarize themselves with local labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Information on state labor laws and workforce data is available at the California Employment Development Department.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides employment statistics and job outlook information useful for Kitchen Managers.
- Local regulations and business resources can be found on the official City of Pasadena website.