Kitchen Manager Salary in Santa Fe, NM
Kitchen Managers in Santa Fe, NM, in 2026, earn approximately $28.11 per hour, which equals about $1,124.40 per week, $4,872.40 per month, and $58,468.80 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Santa Fe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job prospects and expanding opportunities within the hospitality industry in this region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Santa Fe, NM?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Santa Fe can vary based on experience and workplace. Here's an overview of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.38 | $975.20 | $4,222.13 | $50,710.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.11 | $1,124.40 | $4,872.40 | $58,468.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.52 | $1,300.80 | $5,611.20 | $67,641.60 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Santa Fe Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation usually comes solely from their salary or wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Santa Fe vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn on average about $25.31 per hour, which amounts to approximately $52,644.80 per year.
Compared to this, Kitchen Managers in Santa Fe earn slightly higher wages, with an average of $28.11 per hour and $58,468.80 annually. This reflects Santa Fe's local economic conditions and hospitality industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Fe for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offering competitive salaries for Kitchen Managers include:
- Downtown: $30.50 per hour
- South Capitol: $29.80 per hour
These locations often provide higher salaries due to higher demand or more upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Santa Fe?
Several factors play important roles in determining the salary of a Kitchen Manager in Santa Fe.
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers with strong leadership and organizational skills tend to earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or catering businesses often offer better compensation than casual dining or fast-food locations.
- Certifications: Credentials related to food safety, sanitation, and kitchen management can enhance salary potential.
- Management Responsibilities: Overseeing larger teams or handling multiple duties may result in increased wages.
- Local Market Conditions: Economic factors and competition within Santa Fe shape the available salary ranges.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Santa Fe
Achieving a role as a Kitchen Manager involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience.
Programs available locally include the Santa Fe Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in culinary arts, including kitchen management, food safety, and menu planning. Another valuable resource is the New Mexico School of Cooking, specializing in Southwestern cuisine and kitchen management techniques.
Certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification, required by New Mexico regulations, are essential for demonstrating expertise in food safety and sanitation. These qualifications can improve hiring prospects and salary levels.
Starting in entry-level kitchen or culinary roles while gaining supervisory experience can also pave the way to becoming a Kitchen Manager.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Santa Fe
Some notable employers looking for skilled Kitchen Managers in the Santa Fe area include:
- La Fonda on the Plaza
- The Shed
- Geronimo
- Coyote Cafe
- Santa Fe Bite
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Santa Fe Work At
Kitchen Managers commonly find employment in a variety of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically moderate salaries with opportunities for career growth.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Salaries may be slightly lower but with often faster advancement.
- Fine Dining: Usually offers the highest pay reflecting advanced culinary skills and management complexity.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can provide competitive compensation along with additional benefits.
- Catering Companies: Pay can vary depending on event scale and clientele.
The type and prestige of the establishment can greatly influence the earning potential for Kitchen Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Fe for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in similar careers within hospitality, consider exploring these related positions:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Assistant Restaurant Manager roles, all sharing similar skill sets and leadership responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Santa Fe
Kitchen Managers should be equipped with knowledge about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for overarching employment standards.
- For New Mexico-specific labor information, visit the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
- The Official website of the City of Santa Fe offers local employment resources that may be useful.