Kitchen Manager Salary in Tempe, AZ
Kitchen Managers in Tempe, AZ, in 2026, earn approximately $29.30 per hour, which translates to about $1,172.00 per week, $5,078.67 per month, and $60,944.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Tempe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the region's food service industry.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Tempe, AZ?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Tempe varies depending on experience and employer, but here’s a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,493.33 | $53,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Tempe Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips, as their role primarily focuses on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation mainly comes from their salary.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Tempe vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of about $29.30 per hour, which equates to roughly $60,944 per year.
Kitchen Managers in Tempe earn roughly on par with the national average, reflecting the city's competitive market and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tempe for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer slightly higher salaries for Kitchen Managers:
- Downtown Tempe: $31.00 per hour
- North Tempe: $32.00 per hour
Kitchen Managers working in these neighborhoods can expect to earn above the Tempe average.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Tempe?
Several factors affect how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Tempe, AZ:
- Experience: More years in kitchen leadership often translate to higher pay.
- Skills: Expertise in inventory management, staff supervision, and menu planning can boost salary.
- Type of Establishment: High-end and busy restaurants usually offer greater compensation than casual dining venues.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training or certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Size of the Operation: Larger kitchens with extensive staff may offer higher salaries.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Tempe
To pursue a Kitchen Manager role in Tempe, consider these steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Mesa Community College provide comprehensive culinary and management training.
- Study Hospitality Management: The Hospitality Management Program at Arizona State University covers food and beverage operations relevant to kitchen leadership.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM), which is required by Arizona law, demonstrate food safety knowledge essential for Kitchen Managers.
- Gain Work Experience: Experience as a cook, kitchen supervisor, or assistant manager builds necessary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Tempe
Some notable employers seeking Kitchen Managers in Tempe include:
- King's Fish House
- Chelsea's Kitchen
- Chipotle
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Tempe Work At
Kitchen Managers in Tempe are employed across various types of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer a balance of customer volume and menu variety with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually have faster-paced kitchens with competitive salaries due to volume.
- Fine Dining or Upscale Establishments: Often provide higher salaries reflecting the complexity and quality of operations.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger operations with extensive kitchens tend to offer better pay and benefits.
The type and scale of establishment greatly influence the salary and career growth of Kitchen Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tempe for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in related roles within the hospitality industry, consider these similar positions:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Chef de Cuisine, all roles that share managerial and culinary responsibilities within professional kitchens.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Tempe
Kitchen Managers should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their employment rights.
- The Arizona Department of Health Services provides information on state health regulations and required certifications.
- The Arizona Commerce Authority offers resources related to state business practices and employment.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.