Kitchen Manager Salary in Santa Ana, CA
Kitchen Managers in Santa Ana, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $32.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,300.00 per week, $5,633.33 per month, and $67,600.00 per year.
The job market for Kitchen Managers in Santa Ana is showing a positive growth rate of 2% per year, indicating steady demand for skilled professionals in kitchen management across the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Santa Ana, CA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Santa Ana varies by experience, but the general salary range provides a good perspective for potential earnings in the area.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.50 | $1,140.00 | $4,933.33 | $59,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $32.50 | $1,300.00 | $5,633.33 | $67,600.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.50 | $1,500.00 | $6,500.00 | $78,000.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Santa Ana Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily managerial and operational rather than customer-facing.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Santa Ana vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn about $31.40 per hour, translating to approximately $65,312 per year.
Compared to this, Kitchen Managers in Santa Ana earn slightly higher, with an average hourly wage of $32.50 and an annual salary of $67,600.
This difference can be attributed to the local cost of living and restaurant industry demand in Santa Ana.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Ana for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas that offer higher pay for Kitchen Managers include:
- Downtown Santa Ana: $34.50 per hour
- South Coast Metro: $36.00 per hour
Both areas present opportunities for Kitchen Managers seeking to maximize their compensation.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Santa Ana?
Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers with strong leadership abilities tend to earn higher salaries.
Type of Establishment: Salaries vary depending on whether the kitchen is part of a casual dining restaurant, upscale establishment, or large catering company.
Education and Certifications: Possessing culinary training or food safety certifications can boost earning potential significantly.
Geographical Location: Working in higher-paying neighborhoods or more affluent areas nearby often translates to better compensation.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Santa Ana
Starting a career as a Kitchen Manager in Santa Ana involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications.
Educational Programs: Enrolling in programs such as the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program can provide comprehensive culinary training and prepare students for management roles.
The Santa Ana College Hospitality Management Program offers education specifically geared towards hospitality and kitchen operations management.
Certifications: Achieving certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) is essential to ensure food safety compliance and enhance employability.
Gain Work Experience: Starting in kitchen staff roles and working up through the ranks helps develop practical management skills required for the position.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Santa Ana
Several large food service companies actively hire Kitchen Managers in Santa Ana, including:
- Chipotle
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- The Cheesecake Factory
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Santa Ana Work At
Kitchen Managers in Santa Ana commonly work in various types of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often provide steady work and moderate salaries with potential for tips among staff.
- Fast Casual Chains: Management roles here focus on efficiency and volume, generally offering competitive wages.
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: These locations typically pay higher salaries due to their standards and clientele.
- Catering Companies: Offer dynamic work environments where managerial skills are crucial, with pay varying by the company's size and reach.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary, with larger or more upscale venues usually offering better pay and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Ana for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in careers similar to Kitchen Manager, consider these related roles:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Assistant Restaurant Manager positions, which share overlapping duties and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Santa Ana
Kitchen Managers in Santa Ana should be familiar with California's labor laws and tax regulations to ensure full compliance at work and manage their finances efficiently.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for comprehensive information on labor laws and workplace rules.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources related to employment services and unemployment benefits.
- For licensing and certification standards, the California Department of Consumer Affairs is a valuable resource.