Kitchen Manager Salary in Richmond, VA
Kitchen Managers in Richmond, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $31.11 per hour, which translates to about $1,244.40 per week, $5,392.40 per month, and $64,708.80 per year.
The employment outlook for Kitchen Managers in Richmond is positive, with job demand expected to grow about 5% per year, indicating steady growth in the hospitality and food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Richmond, VA?
Kitchen Manager salaries in Richmond vary by experience level and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings based on experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.58 | $1,023.20 | $4,436.53 | $53,206.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.18 | $1,367.20 | $5,929.87 | $71,014.40 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Richmond Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their responsibilities focus on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Richmond vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of about $28.04 per hour, translating to roughly $58,323.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Richmond, VA, earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $31.11 and a yearly salary of $64,708.80. This difference may reflect local market demand and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Richmond for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer some variation in pay for Kitchen Managers:
- Downtown: $32.50 per hour
- Short Pump: $33.00 per hour
Those working in Short Pump may find slightly higher wages compared to Downtown, although both are competitive within the Richmond metropolitan area.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Richmond?
Several key factors affect how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Richmond:
- Experience and Expertise: More years of managing kitchens and refining leadership skills usually translate to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or large catering operations often offers better salaries than smaller or casual dining venues.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in inventory management, team leadership, and obtaining certifications can impact earnings.
- Establishment Size and Menu Complexity: Larger kitchens with diverse menus may require more management experience, leading to higher compensation.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Richmond’s growing culinary scene and living costs contribute to competitive salaries for Kitchen Managers.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Richmond
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in Richmond, follow these steps:
- Enroll in Relevant Culinary Education: Consider programs like the Culinary Arts Program at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, which provides comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Study Hospitality Management: Programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at Virginia Commonwealth University offer education in hospitality operations and food service management, preparing you for leadership roles.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM), required by Virginia law, are essential credentials for kitchen managers.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles and work your way up by developing leadership and organizational skills.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Richmond
Several prominent employers in Richmond frequently seek skilled Kitchen Managers, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Applebee's
- Topgolf
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Richmond Work At
Kitchen Managers in Richmond can typically be found working in various types of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These locations offer consistent management opportunities with steady pay.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: These often have standardized operations, and salaries may vary based on brand and location.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger operations may provide better pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Kitchen Managers here can command higher salaries due to the complexity and quality standards of menus.
The establishment type greatly influences salary, responsibilities, and advancement potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Richmond for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in exploring similar careers, consider these related roles in the Richmond area:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Banquet Chef, which involve overlapping skills in kitchen operations and hospitality leadership.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Richmond
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Kitchen Managers working in Richmond.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Virginia-specific labor laws and employment resources are available at the Virginia state website.
- Richmond local government provides employment and business regulations details on Richmondgov.com.