Kitchen Manager Salary in Portland, ME
Kitchen Managers in Portland, ME, in 2025, earn approximately $29.33 per hour, which translates to about $1,173.20 per week, $5,083.87 per month, and $61,006.40 per year.
The job demand for Kitchen Managers in Portland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities and career growth in this field.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Portland, ME?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Portland can vary based on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at various experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $27.62 | $1,104.80 | $4,788.27 | $57,459.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.33 | $1,173.20 | $5,083.87 | $61,006.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.18 | $1,367.20 | $5,916.53 | $70,974.40 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Portland Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role is managerial and behind the kitchen scenes rather than customer-facing. Their compensation is mostly based on salary or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Portland, ME vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $28.75 per hour, equating to about $59,800 per year.
Comparatively, Kitchen Managers in Portland, ME, earn a slightly higher average hourly rate of $29.33 and an annual salary of about $61,006.40. This reflects the region's specific market demands and cost of living considerations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Kitchen Managers, with some higher-paying locations including:
- Area 1: $30.50 per hour
- Area 2: $31.20 per hour
Considering commutes to these areas may provide better compensation opportunities for Kitchen Managers.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Portland?
Several key factors impact how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Portland:
- Experience and Expertise: Seasoned Kitchen Managers with years of leadership and operational experience command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge in kitchen safety, staff management, budgeting, and culinary expertise enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or large catering services typically offers better pay than smaller eateries or fast food venues.
- Location and Demand: Areas with high demand for culinary management and higher living costs tend to have increased pay scales.
- Educational Background: Holding relevant certifications or degrees can positively affect salary prospects.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Portland
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in Portland, consider the following steps:
- Gain Culinary and Management Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Southern Maine Community College provide comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Study Hospitality: The Hospitality Management Program at the University of Southern Maine offers education in hospitality operations, including food and beverage management, critical for Kitchen Manager roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) credential mandated by Maine demonstrate proficiency in food safety practices.
- Acquire Practical Experience: Working in kitchen roles such as line cook, sous chef, or kitchen supervisor builds the practical skill set needed for management.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Portland
Some notable Portland establishments currently hiring Kitchen Managers include:
- Fore Street Restaurant
- Eventide Oyster Co.
- The Honey Paw
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Portland Work At
Kitchen Managers find employment across a variety of dining establishments. These include:
- Casual and Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide higher wages due to complexity and volume of operations.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: May pay less but offer fast-paced environments valuable for gaining experience.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger scale operations with diverse food service needs often offer competitive salaries and benefits.
- Bakeries and Specialty Food Outlets: Some Kitchen Managers here may earn less but work in niche markets.
The nature and prestige of the establishment significantly affect salary ranges.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Kitchen Managers
If you are exploring similar hospitality careers related to Kitchen Manager, you might consider the following roles:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share responsibilities and skillsets related to Kitchen Management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Portland
Being informed about labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Kitchen Managers in Portland. Helpful resources include:
- Official information on employment laws and business regulations can be found on the Maine government website.
- For federal labor laws, workplace standards, and resources, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.