Kitchen Manager Salary in Wilmington, DE
Kitchen Managers in Wilmington, DE, in 2025, earn approximately $30.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,200.00 per week, $5,200.00 per month, and $62,400.00 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities and a positive job outlook in the food service industry in the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Wilmington, DE?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Wilmington varies depending on experience and competency. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| 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 Wilmington, DE Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation is primarily based on their salary or hourly wage.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Wilmington, DE vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $28.00 per hour, or roughly $58,240.00 per year.
In comparison, Kitchen Managers in Wilmington earn a slightly higher hourly wage of $30.00 per hour and an annual salary of approximately $62,400.00, which is above the national average.
This premium can be attributed to local demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington, DE for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offer the following higher salaries for Kitchen Managers:
- Bear: $64,000 per year
- Bethany Beach: $65,000 per year
These locations generally offer better compensation compared to Wilmington itself, potentially attracting talent willing to commute.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Wilmington, DE?
Several key factors influence a Kitchen Manager’s salary in Wilmington:
- Experience and Expertise: The more years and skills a Kitchen Manager accumulates, the higher the pay they may command.
- Establishment Type: High-end restaurants or busy commercial kitchens generally offer better remuneration than casual dining chains.
- Size of the Operation: Managing a larger kitchen staff or overseeing multiple outlets can lead to a salary boost.
- Certifications and Formal Training: Certifications in food safety and management, as well as a culinary background, can enhance earning potential.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wage rates in Wilmington can be affected by the cost of living and labor market competition.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Wilmington, DE
Becoming a successful Kitchen Manager in Wilmington typically involves several steps:
- Gain Culinary and Management Education: Programs like the Delaware Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program and the University of Delaware Hospitality Business Management Program equip candidates with essential knowledge.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Protection Manager and the Delaware-specific Certified Food Manager (CFM) credential are crucial for ensuring food safety compliance.
- Acquire Practical Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen roles helps build skills and confidence needed to supervise kitchen operations.
- Develop Leadership and Organizational Skills: Effective Kitchen Managers must excel in communication, staff coordination, and inventory management.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Wilmington, DE
Some notable employers actively hiring Kitchen Managers include:
- TGI Fridays
- Metro Diner
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Wilmington, DE Work At
Kitchen Managers can find employment in various types of establishments that influence their salary range:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate pay and steady work overseeing kitchen staff.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These may have faster-paced kitchens with competitive wages but often smaller teams.
- Fine Dining Venues: Offer higher salaries due to complexity of menu and higher service expectations.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: Larger operations with varied culinary offerings often pay well and provide growth opportunities.
The type and scale of the establishment often significantly affect earning potential for Kitchen Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington, DE for Kitchen Managers
For those interested in positions related to Kitchen Manager, there are several career options to consider that require similar expertise and skills.
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, each involving management skills within culinary or service environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Wilmington, DE
Kitchen Managers should familiarize themselves with labor regulations and tax requirements relevant to their employment.
- Delaware’s state labor laws and employment regulations can be found on the State of Delaware Department of Labor website.
- For federal labor standards and guidelines, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.