Restaurant Manager Salary in Chattanooga, TN
Restaurant Managers in Chattanooga, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $26.71 per hour, which translates to about $1,068.40 per week, $4,629.73 per month, and $55,556.80 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Chattanooga is growing moderately at about 2% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities and importance within the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Chattanooga, TN?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Chattanooga varies according to experience and the type of establishment. Here is an outline of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.54 | $861.60 | $3,730.40 | $44,995.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.71 | $1,068.40 | $4,629.73 | $55,556.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.14 | $1,325.60 | $5,724.53 | $68,931.20 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Chattanooga Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their regular compensation. Their income is generally derived from a fixed salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities, which are more commonly received by servers and bartenders.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Chattanooga vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of around $31.40 per hour, amounting to about $65,312 per year.
Comparing this to Chattanooga's average of $26.71 per hour and $55,556.80 annually, salaries in Chattanooga are somewhat lower, reflecting the area's local cost of living and employment market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chattanooga for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas offering slightly higher salaries include:
- Downtown Chattanooga: $28.00 per hour
- North Shore: $27.50 per hour
These areas may have establishments with greater revenue potential or higher-end clientele, leading to slightly increased pay for Restaurant Managers.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Chattanooga?
Several factors impact how much a Restaurant Manager earns in Chattanooga:
- Experience and Tenure: More years in management and proven leadership generally lead to higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants tend to offer better salaries compared to fast casual or smaller eateries.
- Skills and Education: Strong skills in customer service, budgeting, and staff supervision, as well as relevant certifications, can improve pay.
- Size and Revenue of the Restaurant: Larger venues with higher sales volume often provide increased salary and bonuses.
- Local Market Demand: The economic climate in Chattanooga affects hiring and salary levels.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Chattanooga
To pursue a career as a Restaurant Manager in Chattanooga, consider these steps:
- Complete culinary or hospitality education: Programs such as the Chattanooga State Community College Culinary Arts Program or the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Hospitality Management Program provide essential knowledge for the role.
- Obtain management certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification or the Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) demonstrate expertise in food safety and hospitality management.
- Gain practical restaurant experience: Working in progressively responsible roles within restaurants builds the skills needed for management.
- Develop leadership and communication skills: Managing staff effectively and maintaining good customer relations are crucial.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Chattanooga
Some of the prominent employers seeking experienced Restaurant Managers in Chattanooga include:
- J. Alexander's Restaurants
- Hooters
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Taco Mac Restaurant Group
- STIR Chattanooga
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Chattanooga Work At
Restaurant Managers can find employment across various types of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining: These establishments often provide stable income but may have lower salaries compared to more upscale venues.
- Fast Casual: Quick service restaurants tend to have a faster pace and different management challenges, affecting compensation.
- Fine Dining: High-end restaurants typically offer higher salaries and sometimes bonuses due to greater responsibilities.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: These venues can provide additional benefits and competitive pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment often influence salary levels and the scope of responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chattanooga for Restaurant Managers
If you're considering careers similar to Restaurant Manager, here are a few related roles worth exploring:
These include roles such as Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Bar Manager, which share overlapping skills and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Chattanooga
Understanding labor regulations and tax obligations is essential for Restaurant Managers to navigate employment and payroll matters successfully.
- Information on Tennessee workforce and labor laws can be found at the State of Tennessee's official website for labor and workforce development resources.
- For federal labor regulations and compliance guidance, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.