Kitchen Manager Salary in St. Louis, MO
Kitchen Managers in St. Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $28.79 per hour, which translates to about $1,151.60 per week, $4,990.27 per month, and $59,883.20 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in St. Louis is increasing, with an estimated growth rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the food service management sector.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in St. Louis varies with experience and employer type. Here is a breakdown of average earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.91 | $996.40 | $4,312.93 | $51,916.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.79 | $1,151.60 | $4,990.27 | $59,883.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.27 | $1,330.80 | $5,720.40 | $68,993.60 |
Do Kitchen Managers in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as their responsibilities focus on managing kitchen operations and staff rather than direct customer service. Their income is primarily derived from their salary or hourly wage.
Kitchen Manager Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Kitchen Managers is approximately $29, with a yearly average around $60,320.
Compared to these figures, Kitchen Managers in St. Louis earn slightly less hourly at $28.79, but their annual salary of $59,883.20 is closely aligned with the national average. These small differences reflect local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer the following average hourly wages for Kitchen Managers:
- Frontenac: $31.64 per hour
- Branson: $36.52 per hour
These locations tend to provide higher pay, possibly due to more upscale dining scenes or increased tourism, making them attractive options for Kitchen Managers seeking higher earnings.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several factors affect the salary prospects of Kitchen Managers in St. Louis:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers generally command higher salaries due to proven ability to oversee complex kitchen operations.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and large-scale operations typically offer more competitive pay than small cafes or fast casual eateries.
- Location: Salaries may vary within the St. Louis metro area, with higher wages found in more affluent neighborhoods or tourist hubs.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary training or management certifications can increase earning potential.
- Performance and Reputation: Proven efficiency, cost control, and ability to maintain high food quality positively impact negotiated salaries.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in St. Louis
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in St. Louis, consider these steps:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Enroll in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at St. Louis Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at Washington University in St. Louis to gain foundational knowledge in culinary techniques and management.
- Earn Certifications: Acquire certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM), which are critical for food safety compliance and often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in kitchen roles such as Line Cook or Kitchen Supervisor to build hands-on experience before advancing to management.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Strong communication and team management abilities are essential for this role.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in St. Louis
Several well-known employers in the St. Louis area actively seek qualified Kitchen Managers:
- Shake Shack
- Texas Roadhouse
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in St. Louis Work At
Kitchen Managers in St. Louis find employment opportunities across various establishment types:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer a balance of pay and experience management opportunities.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often provide standardized procedures and consistent schedules but may have lower pay scales.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically offer higher salaries due to more complex kitchen operations and higher customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations with diverse food service outlets may pay more and provide career growth.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary and benefits for Kitchen Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Kitchen Managers
Related roles in hospitality that may interest Kitchen Managers include:
These positions include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef, offering alternative career paths within the culinary and restaurant management fields.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in St. Louis
Kitchen Managers should be familiar with federal, state, and local labor laws to protect their rights and ensure compliant workplaces.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive labor standards information.
- Consult Missouri state labor laws and employment information for state-specific guidance.
- Refer to the City of St. Louis official website for local regulations and resources.