Kitchen Manager Salary in Rochester, MN
Kitchen Managers in Rochester, MN, in 2026, earn about $29.56 per hour, which is roughly $1,182.40 per week, $5,123.73 per month, and $61,484.80 per year.
The job market for Kitchen Managers is experiencing a positive growth rate around 5% annually, indicating an increasing demand for skilled professionals in kitchen leadership roles each year.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Rochester, MN?
The salary for a Kitchen Manager in Rochester varies depending on experience, with entry-level workers earning less and top earners making significantly more. Here is a breakdown:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $53,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.56 | $1,182.40 | $5,123.73 | $61,484.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,866.67 | $70,720.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Rochester Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips since their role focuses on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation comes primarily from salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Rochester vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn about $30.00 per hour and an annual salary of around $62,400.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Rochester earn slightly less hourly but enjoy a comparable yearly income at $29.56 per hour and $61,484.80 annually.
This reflects regional cost of living differences and local market factors affecting wages.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rochester for Kitchen Managers
Looking at areas near Rochester, MN, salaries for Kitchen Managers vary slightly:
- Downtown: $30.50 per hour
- Northwest Rochester: $31.00 per hour
Those working in Northwest Rochester typically earn the highest pay for Kitchen Managers in the region, followed closely by Downtown Rochester.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Rochester?
The salary for a Kitchen Manager in Rochester is influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced managers tend to earn higher salaries as they can handle complex kitchen operations with greater efficiency.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries vary widely depending on whether one works for a hospital, a hotel, a casual dining restaurant, or a catering company.
- Skillset: Managers with skills in inventory control, scheduling, food safety compliance, and team leadership command better pay.
- Certifications: Having certifications such as ServSafe Manager Certification or Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) may boost earning potential.
- Size of Kitchen Staff: Managing larger teams often results in higher salaries due to increased responsibilities.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Rochester
Becoming a Kitchen Manager involves formal education, certifications, and practical experience in culinary operations.
Here are key steps to pursue this career:
- Educational Programs: Enrolling in programs like the Rochester Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program or Minnesota State College Southeast Culinary Program provides essential training in culinary skills and kitchen management.
- Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Manager Certification is a widely recognized credential focusing on food safety. In Minnesota, the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification is mandatory for at least one manager per food establishment.
- Gain Experience: Starting in kitchen roles such as line cook or kitchen supervisor and progressing into management prepares you for the Kitchen Manager responsibilities.
- Develop Critical Skills: Skills in communication, leadership, budgeting, and staff scheduling improve job prospects and earning potential.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Rochester
Some of the largest and most prominent employers hiring Kitchen Managers in Rochester include:
- Mayo Clinic
- Kahler Hospitality Group
- Canadian Honker Restaurant
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Rochester Work At
Kitchen Managers in Rochester find employment in various settings, such as:
- Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: These establishments may offer stable employment with competitive salaries, especially given Rochester’s size and the presence of Mayo Clinic.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These often require Kitchen Managers to oversee large food service operations and may offer higher wages.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Typically offer moderate pay; however, roles may involve more hands-on kitchen management.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Might offer higher salaries for managers due to the complexity and quality requirements of the kitchen operations.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Kitchen Manager’s salary due to the size, clientele, and operational complexity.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rochester for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in careers related to Kitchen Manager, consider these similar roles:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, positions that share overlapping skills and responsibilities with Kitchen Managers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Rochester
Kitchen Managers in Rochester should be aware of labor regulations and tax requirements that affect their employment conditions and income.
- Refer to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry for state labor laws and workplace standards.
- The Internal Revenue Service provides comprehensive federal tax information and resources.
- Visit the City of Rochester official website for local regulations and community resources.