Restaurant Manager Salary in Columbia, SC
Restaurant Managers in Columbia, SC, earn approximately $23.62 per hour, which adds up to about $944.80 per week, $4,094.13 per month, and $49,129.60 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Columbia is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and expanding opportunities in the area's food service industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Columbia, SC?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Columbia varies depending on factors like experience and type of establishment. Below is a breakdown by experience level with associated pay scales.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.47 | $618.80 | $2,680.53 | $32,145.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.62 | $944.80 | $4,094.13 | $49,129.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.08 | $1,443.20 | $6,258.13 | $75,046.40 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Columbia Earn Tips?
Generally, Restaurant Managers do not earn tips as their role focuses on overseeing operations rather than direct table service. Their total compensation is primarily salary-based without tip income.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Columbia, SC vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn about $25.69 per hour, which translates to approximately $53,435.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Columbia earn a slightly lower hourly wage of $23.62 and annual pay of $49,129.60. This difference reflects the local cost of living and economic factors in South Carolina.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbia for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas offer competitive salary rates for Restaurant Managers, including:
- Downtown Columbia: $24.50 per hour
- Forest Acres: $23.75 per hour
Restaurant Managers working in Downtown Columbia tend to earn more compared to other nearby locations, making it a desirable area for career advancement.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Columbia?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Restaurant Manager in Columbia:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced managers with strong leadership capabilities tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Managers at upscale or franchise restaurants generally earn more than those in smaller, casual venues.
- Size and Location of the Restaurant: Larger venues or those in busy commercial areas can offer better pay.
- Education and Certifications: Formal hospitality management education and certifications like ServSafe can positively impact earning potential.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Columbia
To pursue a career as a Restaurant Manager in Columbia, you can take these steps:
- Enroll in Hospitality Management Programs: Programs such as the Midlands Technical College Hospitality Management Program provide relevant courses on restaurant operations and management, preparing you for leadership roles.
- Consider University Programs: The University of South Carolina School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management offers a comprehensive curriculum in restaurant management, hospitality law, and financial management.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Manager Certification and the legally required Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) are valuable credentials that ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in supervisory or assistant manager roles provides hands-on knowledge critical for managing operations effectively.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Columbia
Some of the major employers actively hiring Restaurant Managers in Columbia include:
- Darden Restaurants
- Waffle House
- Denny's
- First Watch
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Columbia Work At
Restaurant Managers in Columbia find employment in a variety of establishments such as casual dining, fast casual, fine dining, and franchise restaurants.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salaries. Fine dining and upscale franchises tend to offer higher pay due to the complexity and customer expectations involved. Fast casual and small local restaurants may provide moderate compensation but offer valuable experience and growth possibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbia for Restaurant Managers
If you are interested in careers related to Restaurant Management, here are some similar roles worth considering that require overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These careers include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Restaurant Manager, reflecting a progression or specialization in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Columbia
Restaurant Managers should be aware of federal and state labor regulations as well as tax obligations to ensure compliance and proper management of employment conditions.
- For comprehensive federal labor laws and wage information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- South Carolina-specific labor laws and licensing requirements are available through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
- Information on state taxes and employer responsibilities can be found on the South Carolina Department of Revenue website.