Kitchen Manager Salary in Thornton, CO
Kitchen Managers in Thornton, CO, in 2026, earn approximately $30.76 per hour, which translates to about $1,230.40 per week, $5,331.73 per month, and $63,980.80 per year.
The job outlook for Kitchen Managers in Thornton is positive, with employment expected to grow at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for skilled professionals in kitchen supervision and management roles.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Thornton may vary based on experience, skills, and the employer, but here is a breakdown across different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.14 | $1,005.60 | $4,355.20 | $52,275.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.76 | $1,230.40 | $5,331.73 | $63,980.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.64 | $1,505.60 | $6,505.60 | $78,291.20 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Thornton, CO Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their primary responsibilities involve managing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their income relies mainly on their salary or hourly wages.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Thornton, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of about $28.21 per hour, which amounts to roughly $58,676.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Thornton earn a higher hourly wage at approximately $30.76 per hour and an annual salary of about $63,980.80, reflecting local economic factors and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton, CO for Kitchen Managers
For Kitchen Managers looking to earn more, nearby areas offer the following average hourly wages:
- Eastlake: $32.50 per hour
- Rolling Hills at Thorncreek: $34.00 per hour
These areas provide slightly higher pay, often due to differing local economies and employer profiles.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Thornton can be influenced by various important factors that impact earning potential.
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Kitchen Managers with proven leadership and culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or specialty kitchens generally offers better compensation compared to fast-food or casual dining establishments.
- Certifications and Education: Holding relevant culinary or management certifications often enhances salary prospects.
- Shift and Working Hours: Managers working night shifts or increased hours may receive additional pay or overtime.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Thornton’s economic environment and living costs affect salary scales.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Thornton, CO
Building a career as a Kitchen Manager typically involves several strategic steps and education paths.
Consider pursuing programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Emily Griffith Technical College, which delivers comprehensive training in culinary skills, preparing students for positions in kitchen management.
Additionally, the Hospitality Management Program at Metropolitan State University of Denver provides education focused on hospitality operations including leadership and business skills critical for Kitchen Managers.
Certifications are also vital. The ServSafe Manager Certification ensures knowledge of food safety and sanitation best practices. In Colorado, the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification is required by law to have at least one person in charge during food preparation who understands food safety regulations.
Gathering practical experience in a kitchen environment and taking on increasing responsibilities prepares candidates for management roles.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Thornton, CO
Several well-known restaurant chains and establishments in Thornton are frequently hiring Kitchen Managers:
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- Texas Roadhouse
- Applebee's
- Chili's
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Thornton, CO Work At
Kitchen Managers commonly work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide stable hours and moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While fast paced, these may offer slightly lower salaries compared to full-service restaurants.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically pay higher salaries reflecting greater responsibility and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often come with salaried roles and benefits.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary, with fine dining and larger hospitality operations generally offering the highest earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton, CO for Kitchen Managers
If you're exploring related hospitality roles near Kitchen Manager positions, consider these closely related careers:
These roles include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Executive Chef, each offering career alternatives with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Thornton, CO
Kitchen Managers should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in Colorado.
- For state-specific information, visit the Colorado government website, which offers detailed resources on labor laws, taxes, and workplace regulations.
- For comprehensive federal employment standards, explore the U.S. Department of Labor's resources at dol.gov.