Kitchen Manager Salary in San Mateo, CA
Kitchen Managers in San Mateo, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $33.17 per hour, which translates to about $1,326.80 per week, $5,749.47 per month, and $68,993.60 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in San Mateo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in this field within the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in San Mateo, CA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in San Mateo varies depending on experience, skills, and employer, with entry-level to top earners seeing different pay scales. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings based on experience levels.
| 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) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,613.33 | $79,040.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in San Mateo Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips since their responsibilities involve overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is typically salary-based without a tip component.
Kitchen Manager Salary in San Mateo vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $28.00 per hour, translating to about $58,240 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in San Mateo earn notably higher, at about $33.17 per hour and $68,993.60 annually, reflecting the region’s higher cost of living and competitive hospitality market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Mateo for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offering competitive pay for Kitchen Managers include:
- Downtown San Mateo: $35.00 per hour
- Baywood-Aragon: $34.50 per hour
Those working in these neighborhoods might enjoy slightly higher salaries compared to some other parts of San Mateo.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in San Mateo?
A variety of factors contribute to the salary level of a Kitchen Manager in San Mateo:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers with proven leadership often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end, fine dining restaurants or large hotels generally offers better compensation than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications such as ServSafe Manager Certification can improve earning potential.
- Size of the Kitchen and Team: Managing larger teams or more complex kitchen operations typically results in higher salaries.
- Local Market Demand: The demand for Kitchen Managers in the San Mateo hospitality market influences salary ranges.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in San Mateo
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in San Mateo, consider these steps:
- Education: Enroll in relevant programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at College of San Mateo which offers comprehensive training in kitchen management and food safety.
- Hospitality Knowledge: Consider the Hospitality Management Program at Skyline College to gain insights into hospitality operations including restaurant management.
- Certifications: Obtain recognized certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification or the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM), which are important for food safety compliance in California.
- Gain Experience: Work your way up through kitchen roles to acquire hands-on experience managing kitchen operations and staff.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in San Mateo
If you are seeking employment as a Kitchen Manager in San Mateo, major employers to consider include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
- P.F. Chang's
- Outback Steakhouse
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in San Mateo Work At
Kitchen Managers in San Mateo commonly work in various establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate salaries but usually steady work hours.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically pay higher due to complexity and customer expectations.
- Hotel Kitchens: Often provide competitive pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: May offer opportunities for managerial experience but generally lower pay compared to upscale venues.
The type of establishment has a significant impact on salary levels and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Mateo for Kitchen Managers
If you are interested in similar roles alongside Kitchen Manager, consider these related careers:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Chef de Cuisine roles, each requiring strong culinary leadership skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in San Mateo
Kitchen Managers should stay informed about labor laws and tax responsibilities relevant to their position and location.
- California's labor regulations can be reviewed at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For employment benefits and tax information, consult the California Employment Development Department.
- The City of San Mateo Official Website offers local government resources and workplace information.