Restaurant Manager Salary in Trenton, NJ
Restaurant Managers in Trenton, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $30.93 per hour, which translates to about $1,237.20 per week, $5,361.20 per month, and $64,334.40 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Trenton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market with increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector in this region.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Trenton, NJ?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Trenton varies based on experience and the specific establishment. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.93 | $1,237.20 | $5,361.20 | $64,334.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,066.67 | $72,800.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Trenton Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers rarely earn tips as part of their compensation because their role is primarily supervisory and administrative. Tips are typically reserved for frontline servers and bartenders. Therefore, their earnings depend mostly on salary and bonuses rather than tip income.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Trenton vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of around $28.85 per hour, translating to approximately $60,008 annually.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Trenton earn higher wages, at about $30.93 per hour and $64,334.40 annually. This difference reflects the regional cost of living and market demand for experienced management in Trenton.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Trenton for Restaurant Managers
If you're considering nearby areas to Trenton, the salary for Restaurant Managers varies slightly:
- Downtown Trenton: $32.00 per hour
- Ewing Township: $31.50 per hour
These areas offer competitive compensation, with Downtown Trenton providing a slightly higher hourly wage.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Trenton?
Several factors affect the earnings of a Restaurant Manager in Trenton:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: Seasoned managers with proven leadership and operational expertise command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants tend to offer more competitive pay compared to fast casual or chain establishments.
- Educational Background: Degrees or certifications in hospitality or restaurant management can increase job prospects and earning potential.
- Size and Location of the Restaurant: Larger venues or those in prime locations generally provide higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and revenue streams.
- Performance and Bonuses: Managers who improve profitability and customer satisfaction may receive bonuses that enhance overall compensation.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Trenton
To pursue a career as a Restaurant Manager in Trenton, consider the following steps:
- Education: Enroll in hospitality or restaurant management programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at Mercer County Community College or the Food Science Program at Rutgers University, which cover essential management and operational skills.
- Certifications: Obtain food safety certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification, widely recognized in the industry, and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) required by New Jersey law to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level restaurant roles and advance to supervisory positions to build necessary management skills.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills are crucial for managing staff and daily operations effectively.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Trenton
Several well-known establishments in Trenton are actively hiring Restaurant Managers, including:
- Applebee's
- Olive Garden
- Applegreen
- Cooper’s Riverview
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Trenton Work At
Restaurant Managers in Trenton find opportunities in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments typically offer stable pay and a diverse set of management challenges due to a broader customer base.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: These may offer competitive salaries but often with a focus on efficiency and standardized procedures.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Managers here usually earn higher salaries reflecting the greater complexity and upscale service standards of these venues.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: These locations can provide additional benefits and salary premiums due to integration with hospitality services.
The salary range can be influenced significantly by the establishment's prestige, customer volume, and operational complexity.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Trenton for Restaurant Managers
If you're interested in roles similar to Restaurant Manager, consider these related careers that involve leadership and operational responsibilities within hospitality:
These positions include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Restaurant Consultant, all of which share overlapping skills and responsibilities with a Restaurant Manager position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Trenton
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Restaurant Managers working in Trenton:
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- State-specific labor laws and employment resources can be found on the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development website.
- Business and local regulations are available through the City of Trenton Official Website.