Kitchen Manager Salary in Wilmington, NC
Kitchen Managers in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $26.94 per hour, which translates to about $1,077.60 per week, $4,669.60 per month, and $56,035.20 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Wilmington is growing steadily, with a 5% increase per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the food service management sector locally.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Wilmington varies with experience and employer, but here is an overview across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.44 | $857.60 | $3,715.73 | $44,499.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.94 | $1,077.60 | $4,669.60 | $56,035.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.23 | $1,329.20 | $5,733.07 | $68,958.40 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips since their role focuses on managerial duties behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation typically relies solely on salary rather than gratuities.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average hourly wage of around $26.92, translating to about $55,993.60 annually.
Comparing this to Wilmington’s Kitchen Manager salary of $26.94 per hour and $56,035.20 annually, the local earnings are slightly above the national average, reflecting the region’s competitive hospitality industry and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas offering higher compensation for Kitchen Managers include:
- Downtown: $28.50 per hour
- Mayfaire: $30.00 per hour
Kitchen Managers looking for higher pay might find better opportunities in the Mayfaire area, where wages exceed local averages.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors can impact how much a Kitchen Manager earns in Wilmington:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced managers with proven leadership capabilities usually command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies often offer better compensation than casual dining venues.
- Size of the Kitchen: Managing larger kitchens with more staff and complex operations can lead to higher pay.
- Certifications and Education: Formal training and food safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Work Schedule: Managers who oversee multiple shifts or work during peak hours may receive better compensation.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Wilmington
To pursue a career as a Kitchen Manager in Wilmington, here are some helpful steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts or Hospitality Programs: Cape Fear Community College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program that prepares students for kitchen management roles. Additionally, the University of North Carolina Wilmington has a Hospitality Management Program focusing on operational aspects of the food industry.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Achieving credentials like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) is often required by employers and mandated by North Carolina regulations.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in roles such as line cook or kitchen supervisor to build experience before moving into management.
- Develop Strong Organizational and Communication Skills: Effective management requires excellent coordination and leadership abilities.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Wilmington
Several prominent employers in Wilmington are actively seeking skilled Kitchen Managers:
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
- A Thyme Savor
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Wilmington Work At
Kitchen Managers in Wilmington commonly work across a range of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady schedules and moderate salaries, focusing on customer satisfaction and efficient kitchen operations.
- Fast Casual Venues: Fast-paced environments where managers must handle high turnover and fast production; salaries may be competitive depending on the brand.
- Fine Dining and Steak Houses: Higher-end establishments like Ruth’s Chris Steak House typically offer higher salaries but also demand sophisticated management and culinary knowledge.
- Catering Companies and Hotels: These settings often provide opportunities for advancement and higher pay due to larger scale operations.
Salary variations in these establishments reflect their scale, clientele, and complexity of kitchen operations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Kitchen Managers
If you are exploring careers similar to Kitchen Manager, several related positions share common skills and responsibilities:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Kitchen Manager, and Chef de Cuisine roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Wilmington
Kitchen Managers should stay informed about labor regulations and tax guidelines applicable to their role.
- Visit the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics website for comprehensive labor data and employment laws.
- For state-specific regulations, the North Carolina government website offers resources on labor laws and employment standards.