Kitchen Manager Salary in Trenton, NJ
Kitchen Managers in Trenton, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $25.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,020.00 per week, $4,420.00 per month, and $53,040.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Trenton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in this field.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Trenton, NJ?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Trenton can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Trenton Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips since their work is focused on managing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Trenton, NJ vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $24.00 per hour, which translates to about $49,920 per year.
When compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Trenton earn slightly more, at about $25.50 per hour and $53,040 annually, indicating a robust local market with competitive wages.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Trenton for Kitchen Managers
When considering nearby areas of Trenton, salary variations for Kitchen Managers include:
- Downtown Trenton: $27.00 per hour
- Chambersburg: $26.50 per hour
These nearby areas offer slightly higher wages, which might be attractive for those willing to commute for better pay.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Trenton?
Several factors can affect a Kitchen Manager's salary in Trenton:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Kitchen Managers with strong leadership and culinary skills tend to earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or large hotels may offer higher pay compared to smaller or fast casual establishments.
- Skills and Certifications: Familiarity with kitchen management software, budgeting, and food safety certifications can boost earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Managers working evening or weekend shifts might have access to higher wages due to shift differentials.
- Local Economy and Demand: Higher demand for skilled Kitchen Managers can drive up wages in certain areas.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Trenton
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in Trenton, here are some important steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Mercer County Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training, including essential kitchen management skills.
- Consider Specialized Courses: The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College provides focused training in restaurant management and culinary arts.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Manager Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager are valuable and often required by New Jersey law.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start by working in kitchen roles to develop hands-on skills and advance to management positions.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Trenton
Some of the prominent employers looking for Kitchen Managers in Trenton include:
- Hilton Hotels
- Marriott International
- Sodexo
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Trenton Work At
Kitchen Managers can be found working in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often have moderate salaries with possibilities for tips for some team members but less for managers.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer steady wages but may be on the lower end of the pay scale compared to full-service dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually offer higher wages and benefits, reflecting the larger scale of operations.
- Catering and Event Venues: May offer variable wages based on event schedules.
The establishment type greatly influences salary levels due to differences in operational complexity and customer volume.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Trenton for Kitchen Managers
If you are interested in careers similar to Kitchen Manager, consider these related roles:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Chef de Cuisine, roles closely linked to kitchen management with different levels of responsibility.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Trenton
Kitchen Managers should understand relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Visit the Official website of the State of New Jersey for information on state labor laws, minimum wage, and workplace regulations.
- For federal labor laws, see the U.S. Department of Labor official website.