Kitchen Manager Salary in Raleigh, NC
Kitchen Managers in Raleigh, NC, 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 demand for Kitchen Managers in Raleigh is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Raleigh, NC?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Raleigh varies by experience level and employer. Here’s a breakdown of estimated earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.40 | $856.00 | $3,706.67 | $44,512.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,493.33 | $53,920.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.00 | $1,280.00 | $5,546.67 | $66,560.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Raleigh Earn Tips?
Generally, Kitchen Managers do not earn tips as their role is primarily managerial and behind the scenes. Their earnings are based on salary and do not typically include direct tipping.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Raleigh, NC vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn approximately $26.80 per hour and $55,744 annually.
Kitchen Managers in Raleigh earn roughly at the national average hourly rate and yearly salary, reflecting Raleigh’s competitive market for culinary leadership roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Raleigh for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer varying pay scales for Kitchen Managers:
- Chapel Hill: $32.50 per hour
- Cary: $24.80 per hour
Chapel Hill offers higher pay rates for Kitchen Managers, possibly due to a different market and establishment types compared to Raleigh and Cary.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Raleigh, NC?
The salary for a Kitchen Manager in Raleigh can be influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced managers with strong leadership and culinary knowledge usually command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or large catering companies may offer better compensation than small diners or fast-casual chains.
- Certifications and Training: Having certifications related to food safety and kitchen management can boost earning potential.
- Location within the Raleigh Area: Salaries may vary by neighborhood, commuting distance, and local establishment competition.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Raleigh, NC
Succeeding as a Kitchen Manager in Raleigh involves a combination of education, certification, and experience.
Consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive kitchen management and culinary techniques.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Kitchen Managers start as cooks or supervisors, developing skills over time in real kitchen environments.
- Obtain Relevant Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) demonstrate professional knowledge important for leadership roles.
- Enhance Leadership Skills: Strong organizational and people management skills are critical for effective kitchen management.
- Network and Apply: Engaging with local culinary communities and applying to area employers increases job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Raleigh, NC
Several notable restaurants and chains are key employers of Kitchen Managers in Raleigh:
- Uncle Julio's
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Outback Steakhouse
- Golden Corral Corporation
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Raleigh Work At
Kitchen Managers in Raleigh typically work in a range of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady work with moderate salary ranges and opportunities to manage varied menus.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Generally have faster-paced environments with slightly different managerial needs and often moderate salaries.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Require higher skill levels and typically offer higher salaries due to complexity and standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations with more complex kitchen logistics often provide better compensation and benefits.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the Kitchen Manager’s salary, with upscale and larger venues offering more lucrative packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Raleigh, NC for Kitchen Managers
If you are interested in roles similar to Kitchen Manager, consider exploring the following careers.
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, which share leadership and culinary responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Raleigh, NC
Kitchen Managers should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax obligations to protect their rights and comply with regulations.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific to North Carolina, visit the North Carolina Department of Labor website for state workplace standards.
- For local regulations and resources, the City of Raleigh official website provides comprehensive information.