Kitchen Manager Salary in Seattle, WA
Kitchen Managers in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $28.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,140.00 per week, $4,940.00 per month, and $59,280.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Seattle is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive growth and increasing job opportunities in the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Seattle varies based on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.50 | $1,140.00 | $4,940.00 | $59,280.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,066.67 | $72,800.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Seattle Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips, as their role is primarily managerial and behind the scenes. Their compensation is typically limited to their salary or hourly wage without additional tip income.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $25.00 per hour, or about $52,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Seattle earn more, with an average hourly wage of $28.50 and an annual salary of $59,280. This reflects the higher living costs and robust hospitality industry in Seattle.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Kitchen Managers:
- Downtown: $30.00 per hour
- Capitol Hill: $29.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown Seattle may find the highest pay for Kitchen Managers, closely followed by Capitol Hill.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Seattle?
Several factors affect how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Seattle:
- Experience: More experienced Kitchen Managers typically command higher salaries due to proven leadership and operational skills.
- Skills: Expertise in inventory management, staff supervision, and food safety can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels tend to pay more than casual dining or fast-food operations.
- Size of Operation: Larger kitchens with greater staff size and volume can lead to higher compensation for managers.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications related to food safety and management can boost pay.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Seattle
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in Seattle, consider the following:
- Complete Culinary Arts Programs: Institutions such as the Seattle Culinary Academy offer comprehensive culinary arts training focusing on kitchen management and leadership skills.
- Take Culinary Management Courses: The Art Institute of Seattle provides courses that emphasize both culinary techniques and business acumen vital for kitchen leadership.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory for all food service workers in the state, ensuring knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Earn the ServSafe Manager Certification: This nationally recognized certification focuses on food safety management and best practices in kitchen operations, enhancing your qualifications.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Seattle
Seattle hosts several prominent employers known for hiring skilled Kitchen Managers, including:
- Tom Douglas Restaurants
- Ethan Stowell Restaurants
- Canlis
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Seattle Work At
Kitchen Managers in Seattle typically work at a range of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer the highest salaries due to the complexity and demand for excellence in kitchen management.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Pay can be moderate but may offer more opportunities for advancement in larger chains.
- Hotels and Resorts: Kitchen Managers here might receive higher pay and benefits linked to the scale of operations.
- Catering Companies: These often require flexible and managerial skills, with salaries varying based on the size and prestige of the company.
The type of establishment strongly influences pay scales with upscale and well-known brands typically paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Kitchen Managers
If you are considering similar roles to Kitchen Manager, here are a few related careers in hospitality you might explore:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef, which share similar managerial and culinary responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Seattle
Kitchen Managers in Seattle should be informed about labor laws and taxes relevant to their role.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website for workplace rights, wage standards, and safety regulations.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers comprehensive resources.