What Restaurants Do Event Managers Make the Most Money at in Oakland, CA?

Restaurants Where Event Managers Make the Most Money at in Oakland, CA: Key Takeaways

The average hourly wage for Event Managers in Oakland ranges between $30 to $50 per hour, depending on the restaurant and experience.
Commis and The Wolf are among the top restaurants where Event Managers can earn up to $50 per hour.
Event Managers often earn additional bonuses or incentives based on the success and scale of events they manage.

The role of an Event Manager in Oakland's restaurant scene can offer lucrative opportunities.

To improve your hiring approach, consider our guide to hiring an event planner for tailored strategies.

This article covers which restaurants pay the most for Event Managers and breaks down typical salaries and tips.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Managers in Oakland, CA

Commis

Commis is renowned for its innovative fine dining experience and has earned a Michelin star, making it one of Oakland’s premier culinary destinations.

Event Managers here benefit from a high-end environment with opportunities to coordinate exclusive events and earn between $40-$50 per hour.

Learn more about Michelin star restaurants like Commis and their impact on hospitality careers.

The Wolf

The Wolf offers a unique blend of Californian cuisine with a rustic yet modern atmosphere.

Event Managers at The Wolf typically earn around $35-$45 per hour, coordinating weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings.

Pizzaiolo

Famous for its artisanal pizzas and vibrant neighborhood vibe, Pizzaiolo is a favorite local spot.

The Event Manager role here involves managing both intimate and large-scale events at an estimated rate of $30-$40 per hour.

Duende

Duende specializes in Spanish-inspired cuisine with a focus on communal dining and handcrafted cocktails.

Event Managers here earn between $30-$40 per hour, hosting everything from casual celebrations to elaborate parties.

Shakewell

Shakewell is known for its Mediterranean plates and lively open-air ambiance.

Event Managers at Shakewell usually earn approximately $25-$35 per hour, overseeing diverse events in the vibrant Jack London Square area.

For a comprehensive career path in event management, see our detailed Event Manager interview questions resource.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Manager Earnings

The type of restaurant greatly influences the compensation and earning potential for Event Managers.

Upscale and Michelin-starred restaurants such as Commis often provide higher base pay and performance bonuses due to the complexity and prestige of events hosted.

Conversely, casual and neighborhood eateries may offer lower base rates but can provide volume-based incentives and tips depending on event size.

Location matters: Restaurants in bustling areas or event hotspots like Jack London Square often pay more.
Experience and certifications: Event Managers with specialized event planning or hospitality certifications tend to command higher salaries.
Event scope: Larger or corporate events typically yield better compensation and additional gratuities.

Restaurant owners looking to reduce staff turnover and improve hiring processes for Event Managers may find our staff retention strategies very useful.

How To Find a High Paying Event Manager Job in Oakland, CA

Craft a tailored resume and cover letter: Highlight your event management experience, leadership skills, and any relevant certifications.
Network actively: Join local hospitality groups and attend industry events to connect with hiring managers and peers.
Gain specialized skills: Consider certifications in event planning, hospitality management, or safety compliance to increase your marketability.
Prepare thoroughly for interviews: Practice common hospitality and event-related interview questions to demonstrate your expertise.

Explore expert advice on how to impress employers with your interview questions to increase your hiring success.

What’s the Outlook for Event Manager Jobs in Oakland, CA in 2025 and Beyond?

Demand for skilled Event Managers in Oakland is projected to remain strong due to the city's vibrant dining and entertainment culture.

With recovery and growth in the hospitality sector post-pandemic, opportunities are expanding for those adept at managing diverse events efficiently.

Industry data suggests:

Growth in event planning jobs by approximately 8% over the next five years, driven by corporate, social, and cultural events.
Higher competition for roles in upscale venues necessitating advanced skills and experience.
Increased demand for Event Managers familiar with digital event technologies and hybrid event formats.

If you are an employer, see our spotlight on restaurant staffing and how to best manage team growth.

Is an Event Manager’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Oakland, CA?

An Event Manager earning between $30 to $50 per hour, along with potential bonuses, can expect an annual income ranging from approximately $62,000 to $104,000.

While Oakland’s cost of living is relatively high, this salary is generally sufficient to cover:

Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: Around $2,200 per month
Utilities and internet: Approximately $200 per month
Groceries and dining expenses: Estimated $400–$600 per month
Transportation costs: Roughly $100 per month for public transit

With careful budgeting, an Event Manager income allows for a comfortable lifestyle, although luxury spending and frequent dining out may require additional income or savings.

Job seekers can also find helpful insights on how to negotiate salary in the hospitality industry.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Oakland, CA Event Manager Jobs

We selected these top-paying Event Manager roles based on salary range, restaurant prestige, and location to provide a comprehensive view of the job market.

Salary Competitiveness

A key factor was identifying restaurants offering Event Managers pay that is above Oakland's average for this position, usually at or above $30 per hour.

Reputation and Work Environment

Restaurants known for their strong community presence, Michelin distinctions, and commitment to employee satisfaction were prioritized.

Growth Opportunities

We included establishments providing room for professional development, leadership, and handling larger and more complex events.

01. Which restaurant pays the best for Event Managers in Oakland, CA?

Commis is considered the top-paying restaurant for Event Managers in Oakland, offering up to $50 per hour.

02. How much does an Event Manager in Oakland, CA earn from tips?

Event Managers typically earn limited tips but might receive bonuses or incentives tied to event success rather than direct tipping.

03. Is it easy to find a job as an Event Manager in Oakland, CA?

Finding an Event Manager job in Oakland is moderately competitive but achievable, especially with relevant experience and certifications.

04. What is the career path for Event Managers in Oakland, CA?

Event Managers can advance to senior management roles in hospitality, specialize in large-scale events, or move into related fields like venue management or corporate planning.