Kitchen Manager Salary in Tacoma, WA
Kitchen Managers in Tacoma, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $29.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,160.00 per week, $5,026.67 per month, and $60,320.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Tacoma is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for managerial roles within the food service industry in the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Tacoma, WA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Tacoma varies based on experience and skills. Below is a breakdown covering entry-level to top earners’ pay.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.00 | $1,160.00 | $5,026.67 | $60,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,866.67 | $70,720.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Tacoma Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips because their role is managerial and mainly behind the scenes, focusing on operations rather than direct customer service.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Tacoma vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn about $28.00 per hour, equating to roughly $58,240.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Tacoma earn a slightly higher hourly rate of $29.00 and yearly salary of $60,320.00. This reflects Tacoma’s competitive market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tacoma for Kitchen Managers
When considering nearby areas, salaries for Kitchen Managers can vary:
- Downtown Tacoma: $30.50 per hour
- North End: $31.00 per hour
Those seeking higher pay might find better opportunities by exploring these locations close to Tacoma.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Tacoma?
Several factors affect the salary potential for a Kitchen Manager in Tacoma:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced managers with proven leadership abilities command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and larger hotels often pay more than smaller or fast casual eateries.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certifications, such as the ServSafe Manager Certification, can increase earning potential.
- Operational Responsibilities: Managers overseeing multiple shifts or larger teams tend to receive better compensation.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Tacoma
Pursuing a career as a Kitchen Manager involves several steps and qualifications:
- Education: Consider enrolling in culinary programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Bates Technical College or the Culinary Arts Program at South Puget Sound Community College, both offering crucial skills and management training.
- Certifications: Obtain essential certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) required in Washington State.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles to understand kitchen operations before advancing to management.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Strong communication and organization skills help manage staff effectively and improve career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Tacoma
Popular employers seeking skilled Kitchen Managers in Tacoma include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
- Red Robin
- Applebee's
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Tacoma Work At
Kitchen Managers work in a variety of food service settings including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often with moderate pay but opportunities for advancement.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Growing segment with competitive wages tied to efficiency and volume.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically higher-paying due to scale and complexity of kitchen operations.
- Catering and Banquet Facilities: Seasonal variability but can offer lucrative wages during peak times.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary, with upscale venues generally providing better remuneration and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tacoma for Kitchen Managers
For those interested in similar roles, consider the following careers that share skills and responsibilities with Kitchen Managers.
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Executive Chef, all of which involve leadership roles within kitchen and hospitality environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Tacoma
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Kitchen Managers to ensure compliance and safeguard their rights.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Washington-specific labor laws and workplace safety regulations can be found at the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.
- The City of Tacoma's official website offers local regulations and resources.