Restaurant Manager Salary in Milwaukee, WI
Restaurant Managers in Milwaukee, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $27.88 per hour, which translates to about $1,115.20 per week, $4,832.53 per month, and $57,990.40 per year.
The job market for Restaurant Managers is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating a positive outlook in demand for experienced professionals in this field within Milwaukee.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary for Restaurant Managers in Milwaukee varies depending on experience, responsibilities, and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.10 | $844.00 | $3,652.67 | $43,888.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.88 | $1,115.20 | $4,832.53 | $57,990.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.22 | $1,368.80 | $5,908.27 | $70,985.60 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Typically, Restaurant Managers do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their income is mainly based on a salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities, which are usually directed to front-of-house staff such as servers or bartenders.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Restaurant Managers is around $31.40 per hour, and the yearly average salary is approximately $65,312.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Milwaukee earn slightly less, at about $27.88 per hour and $57,990.40 annually. This difference may be influenced by local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Restaurant Managers
Looking at nearby areas, Restaurant Manager salaries can differ slightly:
- Brookfield: $28.31 per hour
- Mequon: $26.92 per hour
Brookfield tends to offer a marginally higher wage for Restaurant Managers compared to Mequon, providing options for those willing to commute or relocate nearby.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Milwaukee?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Restaurant Manager in Milwaukee, such as:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced managers with strong leadership and operational skills usually earn higher wages.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and larger establishments often pay more than casual or fast-casual places.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education or management certifications can provide an edge in salary negotiations.
- Geographic Location: Restaurants in upscale neighborhoods or high-traffic commercial zones might offer better pay.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Milwaukee
To build a successful career as a Restaurant Manager in Milwaukee, you can follow these steps:
- Gain Culinary and Management Education: Programs like the Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in culinary arts, including restaurant management courses. Additionally, the University of Wisconsin-Stout’s Hospitality Management Program provides a bachelor's degree focusing on hospitality and restaurant management.
- Obtain Professional Certifications: Earning certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification, which emphasizes food safety and sanitation, or the Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) credential can enhance your qualifications.
- Seek Entry-Level Experience: Start as a server, assistant manager, or supervisor to understand the operational side before moving into a management role.
- Develop Key Skills: Skills in leadership, communication, budgeting, and customer service are crucial for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Milwaukee
Some of the prominent employers actively hiring Restaurant Managers in Milwaukee include:
- McDonald's
- Milwaukee Fast Casual
- Manna
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Milwaukee Work At
Restaurant Managers typically work across a range of establishments such as casual dining, fast casual, fine dining, and quick-service restaurants.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary. For instance, managers at fine dining locations tend to earn more owing to the complexity and demands of upscale service, while fast casual restaurants might offer more modest pay but with different benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Restaurant Managers
If you're considering careers related to Restaurant Management, there are several roles in the hospitality industry that share similar skills and growth opportunities:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Bar Manager, roles closely related by their focus on managing hospitality operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Milwaukee
Restaurant Managers should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and effective financial management. Useful resources include:
- General federal labor laws and regulations can be found at the Federal Department of Labor website.
- The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development provides state-specific labor laws and workforce resources.
- Information pertaining to city ordinances and employment regulations can be accessed via the City of Milwaukee official website.