Kitchen Manager Salary in Tampa, FL
Kitchen Managers in Tampa, FL, 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 Tampa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industries in the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Tampa, FL?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Tampa can vary based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.10 | $964.00 | $4,172.67 | $50,216.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.90 | $1,156.00 | $5,000.67 | $60,112.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.00 | $1,320.00 | $5,720.00 | $68,640.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Tampa Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their roles focus on oversight, food preparation management, and ensuring kitchen operations run smoothly. Their compensation is primarily based on salary or hourly wages without additional tip income.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Tampa vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $28.10 per hour, translating to approximately $58,448 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Tampa earn a bit more at about $29.00 per hour and $60,320 annually, reflecting regional market demand and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tampa for Kitchen Managers
Looking at nearby areas, Kitchen Manager salaries show some variation:
- Saint Petersburg: $30.10 per hour
- Miami: $29.30 per hour
Kitchen Managers working or commuting to Saint Petersburg may find higher pay, while Miami also offers competitive salaries slightly above Tampa's average.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Tampa?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Tampa is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers with strong leadership and organizational skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Large hotels, upscale restaurants, and busy catering companies often pay more than small casual eateries.
- Culinary and Management Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Protection Manager or Certified Kitchen Manager (CKM) can enhance earnings potential.
- Local Market Demand: Tampa’s growing culinary scene and hospitality sector raise the need and pay for competent Kitchen Managers.
- Shift Schedules and Responsibilities: Managers covering evenings, weekends, or managing large teams typically earn higher compensation.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Tampa
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Tampa generally involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications:
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Hillsborough Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at the University of South Florida provide foundational skills in kitchen management and operations.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Earning a ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification or Certified Kitchen Manager (CKM) credential validates your expertise in food safety and kitchen leadership.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in kitchen roles such as line cook, sous chef, or kitchen supervisor to develop hands-on skills and gain leadership exposure.
- Develop Management and Communication Skills: Effective team coordination and management are essential for success as a Kitchen Manager.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Tampa
Several well-known establishments regularly seek skilled Kitchen Managers in Tampa, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Fresh Kitchen
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Tampa Work At
Kitchen Managers in Tampa typically operate within a variety of food service settings, including:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These establishments often have fast-paced kitchens requiring skilled management, though they may offer lower salaries compared to fine dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: Such venues tend to offer higher pay due to larger kitchen operations and higher guest expectations.
- Catering Companies and Banquet Halls: These require Kitchen Managers capable of overseeing large events, often with specialized salary packages.
- Specialty and Ethnic Restaurants: Managers here may benefit from niche culinary knowledge and customer bases.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly impact a Kitchen Manager’s earning potential and job responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tampa for Kitchen Managers
If you are interested in careers related to Kitchen Management, consider these similar hospitality positions:
These include roles such as Kitchen Supervisor, Commis Chef, and Head Chef, each involving key culinary skills and management responsibilities related to the Kitchen Manager role.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Tampa
Kitchen Managers should be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and secure fair working conditions. Useful resources include:
- Federal regulations available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and updates on the State of Florida official site.
- Local ordinances and business regulations via the City of Tampa official website.