Kitchen Manager Salary in Woodbridge, NJ
Kitchen Managers in Woodbridge, NJ, 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 Woodbridge is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary leadership and food service management in the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Woodbridge, NJ?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Woodbridge 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) | $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 Woodbridge Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily managerial and behind the scenes, focusing on overseeing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Woodbridge, NJ vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $30.00 per hour, translating to about $62,400.00 per year.
When compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Woodbridge earn a competitive salary of $30.00 per hour and $62,400.00 annually, which aligns closely with the overall national figures.
This parity suggests that Woodbridge presents average market compensation for Kitchen Managers, balanced by regional factors like cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Woodbridge for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas may offer higher pay for Kitchen Managers, including the following locations:
- Rochelle Park: $34.00 per hour
- Rockaway: $33.70 per hour
If you are considering relocating or commuting, Kitchens Managers in Rochelle Park and Rockaway can expect higher hourly wages than in Woodbridge.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Woodbridge?
Several important factors can influence how much a Kitchen Manager earns in Woodbridge, NJ, including:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers with strong leadership, inventory management, and culinary skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Salary can vary significantly between fast casual, fine dining, hotels, and catering businesses, with upscale and larger establishments typically paying more.
- Certification and Education: Obtaining certifications like ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification or the ProStart Certification can increase earning potential.
- Regional Demand and Cost of Living: Areas with high demand for Kitchen Managers and higher living costs usually reflect higher salaries.
- Size of Operation: Managing a larger kitchen or multiple locations typically comes with increased salary due to the scope of responsibility.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Woodbridge, NJ
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Woodbridge requires a combination of education, experience, and certifications. Here are key steps:
- Gain Culinary and Management Experience: Starting as a line cook or kitchen supervisor provides practical knowledge necessary for promotion.
- Complete Relevant Certifications: Programs like the ProStart Certification from the National Restaurant Association offer foundational skills, while advanced credentials like the Certified Hospitality and Tourism Management Professional help sharpen management capabilities.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is widely recognized and helps Kitchen Managers ensure compliance with health standards. Additionally, the Food Protection Manager Certification required by the New Jersey Department of Health is essential for overseeing food preparation safely.
- Consider Formal Culinary Education: Pursuing culinary courses can provide foundational culinary knowledge and leadership techniques that enhance job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Woodbridge
Several prominent employers in Woodbridge regularly hire Kitchen Managers, such as:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Woodbridge Work At
Kitchen Managers typically find employment across diverse establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These may offer moderate salaries but often provide opportunities for advancement and varied responsibilities.
- Fast Casual Chains: These establishments tend to have structured management roles with competitive pay.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Such settings usually provide higher salaries and the challenge of managing large-scale kitchen operations.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These typically pay more for Kitchen Managers due to the complexity and standards of service.
The type of establishment not only affects salary but also work environment and career progression opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Woodbridge for Kitchen Managers
If you're interested in roles similar to Kitchen Manager, consider these related careers in Woodbridge:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Chef de Partie, and Head Chef positions, which involve related culinary and management responsibilities with varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Woodbridge
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Kitchen Managers in Woodbridge to ensure compliance and proper financial planning.
- Visit the State of New Jersey Department of Health website for information on regulations related to health and safety standards in food service operations.
- For federal labor laws, including wage and hour standards, check the U.S. Department of Labor federal website.