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How much does a Catering Manager make?

The average salary for a Catering Manager is $50,201 per year in the US.

A Catering Manager oversees the planning and execution of food services. This role is important in many settings, from restaurants to event planning companies. According to recent data, the average yearly salary for a Catering Manager is around $50,201. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the company.

Catering Managers can earn between $29,000 and $85,000 annually. The lower end of the salary range is often seen in entry-level positions or smaller companies. As a person gains more experience and takes on larger projects, their salary can increase. Experienced managers at large companies can earn closer to the higher end of the salary range. Factors like location also play a role, with some areas offering higher wages due to a higher cost of living.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Catering Manager?

Catering Managers in Los Angeles, CA, earn the highest average salaries, with a median of $73,643. Opportunities in San Francisco and Seattle also promise competitive pay, with averages around $73,500 and $72,400, respectively. Job seekers should consider these cities for top earning potential in their career.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Catering Manager jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $73,643 and Washington, DC with the lowest at $62,977.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $73,643
    In Los Angeles, you can find plenty of opportunities to work with top-tier companies, such as Wolfgang Puck Catering. The city's vibrant entertainment industry offers a unique chance to plan and execute high-profile events. The competitive atmosphere ensures you stay on your toes and deliver exceptional service.
    Find Catering Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $73,535
    San Francisco boasts a thriving food scene that makes it an exciting place to work as a catering professional. Companies like Bon Appétit Management offer diverse projects. The city’s focus on quality dining means you will be at the forefront of culinary innovation.
    Find Catering Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $72,443
    Seattle's culinary scene is rich with opportunities for catering managers. With companies like Seattle Catering, you can enjoy working in a city that values fresh, local ingredients. The mild climate allows for year-round events, keeping your schedule active.
    Find Catering Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $70,956
    In Colorado Springs, you can enjoy a balanced lifestyle while managing events for companies such as Mile High Catering. The city’s outdoor culture offers plenty of events to cater for. The clear skies and beautiful landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for your work.
    Find Catering Manager jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  5. Rochester, MN
    Average Salary: $68,896
    Rochester, with its vibrant community events, offers a fulfilling environment for catering professionals. Companies like The Catering Company provide a chance to be part of meaningful local gatherings. The city's friendly atmosphere ensures a supportive work environment.
    Find Catering Manager jobs in Rochester, MN


  6. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $66,584
    San Jose’s tech industry offers many opportunities to cater for corporate events. Working with companies like Silicon Valley Catering, you can enjoy a dynamic work environment. The city’s innovative spirit means your work will always be cutting-edge.
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  7. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $66,420
    Boston's rich history and vibrant culture provide a unique setting for catering managers. Companies like Boston Events cater to a diverse range of events. The city’s educational institutions also offer numerous opportunities for academic and social functions.
    Find Catering Manager jobs in Boston, MA


  8. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $63,863
    Sacramento's growing economy provides steady opportunities for catering professionals. Companies like Capitol Catering offer a range of events to manage. The city’s laid-back vibe ensures a pleasant work environment.
    Find Catering Manager jobs in Sacramento, CA


  9. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $63,449
    San Diego's beautiful beaches and warm climate make it an attractive place to work as a catering manager. Companies like Coastal Catering offer many events to plan. The city's tourism industry ensures a steady flow of events to manage.
    Find Catering Manager jobs in San Diego, CA


  10. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $62,977
    In Washington, DC, you will find a plethora of events to cater for, from political gatherings to corporate functions. Companies like DC Catering provide a range of projects. The city’s political and cultural significance offers a unique backdrop for your work.
    Find Catering Manager jobs in Washington, DC

What are the best companies a Catering Manager can work for?

Specialty Restaurants lead as the best-paying company for Catering Manager jobs, offering an average salary of $74,827. Job seekers can also find attractive compensation at Wolfgang Puck Catering, where salaries reach up to $70,931 annually. Bon Appétit provides a competitive salary of $69,910, making it another excellent choice for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Catering Manager jobs, highlighting Specialty Restaurants with the highest at $74,827 and Schulte Hospitality Group with the lowest at $64,872.
  1. Specialty Restaurants
    Average Salary: $74,827
    Specialty Restaurants offers exciting opportunities for Catering Managers in various locations. The company focuses on creating unique dining experiences. Locations include New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.


  2. Wolfgang Puck Catering
    Average Salary: $70,931
    Wolfgang Puck Catering provides Catering Managers with a chance to work in high-end events. The company operates in major cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and New York.


  3. Bon Appétit
    Average Salary: $69,910
    Bon Appétit offers Catering Managers positions in food service management across the country. They manage catering services for educational and healthcare institutions.


  4. Goodwin Recruiting
    Average Salary: $69,848
    Goodwin Recruiting helps Catering Managers find positions with top companies. They offer roles in cities such as San Francisco, Boston, and Miami.


  5. FLIK Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $69,054
    FLIK Hospitality Group provides various catering opportunities in large cities such as Atlanta, Houston, and Dallas. They focus on creating memorable dining experiences.


  6. HEI Hotels & Resorts
    Average Salary: $68,973
    HEI Hotels & Resorts offer Catering Managers roles in luxury hotels. They manage high-end catering for events across the country.


  7. Restaurant Associates
    Average Salary: $68,842
    Restaurant Associates provides opportunities for Catering Managers in various locations, including New York, San Francisco, and Denver. They manage catering services for restaurants.


  8. Fooda
    Average Salary: $66,458
    Fooda offers Catering Manager positions with a focus on catering for events in major cities like Seattle, Austin, and Philadelphia.


  9. Davidson Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $65,429
    Davidson Hospitality Group provides Catering Manager roles in resort properties. Locations include Palm Beach, Florida, and Napa Valley, California.


  10. Schulte Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $64,872
    Schulte Hospitality Group offers catering management opportunities in major metropolitan areas, including Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles.

How to earn more as a Catering Manager?

A Catering Manager can increase earnings by enhancing various aspects of their job. Focus on these key areas to see a salary rise. Starting with experience, more years in the industry can lead to higher pay. Each year spent mastering the craft can bring more skills and insights. Networking with peers and clients also helps. Building a strong professional circle can open doors to better job opportunities. Keeping up with trends is another important factor. Catering styles and customer preferences change. Staying informed can lead to innovative ideas that attract more business. Managing costs wisely is essential. Efficient budgeting can lead to higher profits. Lastly, excellent leadership skills can make a big difference. Managing a team well ensures smooth operations and happy clients.

Catering Managers can earn more by improving specific skills. Start with strong communication. Clear and effective communication with clients and staff helps avoid misunderstandings. Being detail-oriented ensures every event runs smoothly. This leads to happy clients and repeat business. Learning to manage large projects can also increase earnings. Handling big events well shows professionalism and capability. Adding new certifications can boost credibility. Special training in food safety or event planning can set a manager apart. Finally, developing strong client relationships leads to referrals and new business. Word-of-mouth can bring in steady work and higher pay.

Here are some ways to increase earnings as a Catering Manager:

  • Gain more experience in the industry.
  • Build a strong professional network.
  • Stay updated with catering trends.
  • Manage costs effectively.
  • Demonstrate excellent leadership skills.

Currently 894 Catering Manager job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Catering Manager in the US?

Learn what a Catering Manager does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Catering Manager today.
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Catering Manager
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