Kitchen Manager Salary in Waco, TX
Kitchen Managers in Waco, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Waco is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in kitchen management roles in this region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Waco, TX?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Waco varies based on experience and skills, but the following provides a comprehensive view across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,437.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Waco Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their responsibilities focus on management, inventory, and food preparation oversight rather than direct customer service.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Waco vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, amounting to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Waco earn slightly less hourly with $13.90 per hour and earn an annual salary of about $28,912.00.
This difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and economic conditions in the Waco area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Waco for Kitchen Managers
Looking at areas near Waco, here are some locations that offer higher salaries for Kitchen Managers:
- North Lake Waco: $15.50 per hour
- Mountainview: $17.60 per hour
Kitchen Managers seeking higher pay may want to consider these nearby areas where wages tend to be more competitive.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Waco?
Several factors affect how much a Kitchen Manager can earn in Waco, TX.
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Kitchen Managers with proven leadership skills tend to earn higher wages due to their ability to efficiently run kitchen operations.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized knowledge in food safety, inventory control, and staff management can influence salary.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually offers better salaries than casual dining or fast-food establishments.
- Size of the Kitchen and Staff: Managing larger kitchens with more staff often commands higher pay because of increased responsibility.
- Local Market Demand: Waco’s growing food service industry and increasing demand for qualified managers positively impact salary levels.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Waco
To become a successful Kitchen Manager in Waco, consider following these steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Texas State Technical College to develop a strong foundation in culinary skills and kitchen operations.
- Study Hospitality Management: The Hospitality Management Program at McLennan Community College provides valuable training in leadership and operational aspects relevant to kitchen management.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Secure the Certified Food Manager (CFM) credential, which is required by the state of Texas, and earn the ServSafe Manager Certification, a nationally recognized standard for food safety and management.
- Acquire Work Experience: Start in kitchen or line cook roles to build practical skills before moving up into management positions.
- Develop Leadership and Organizational Skills: Strong communication, team management, and scheduling abilities are essential for excelling as a Kitchen Manager.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Waco
Several well-known employers in Waco hire Kitchen Managers to oversee their kitchen operations, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Waco Work At
Kitchen Managers find employment opportunities in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fast Food Chains: Typically offer moderate salaries but provide steady work and growth opportunities.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often pay better and require managing larger teams and broader responsibilities.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer higher pay due to the scale and complexity of food service operations.
- Catering Companies: Require strong organizational skills, sometimes with varied work hours and special event coordination.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly impact Kitchen Manager salaries in Waco.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Waco for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in careers related to Kitchen Management, consider exploring other similar positions which may fit your skills and interests.
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, which share overlapping responsibilities and offer varied career advancement paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Waco
Kitchen Managers in Waco should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for detailed information on employment standards nationwide.
- Consult the State of Texas workforce commission site for local employment laws and resources applicable in Waco.