How much does a Food Service Director make?
A Food Service Director plays a key role in managing food services in various settings. This role often includes overseeing kitchen staff, managing budgets, and ensuring food quality. The average yearly salary for a Food Service Director is around $52,973. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the organization.
The salary range for Food Service Directors can be quite broad. At the lower end, some directors earn around $28,000 per year. As experience and responsibilities grow, the salary can increase significantly. The highest earners in this field can make up to $95,000 annually. This wide range reflects the diverse opportunities and potential for growth in the profession.
What are the highest paying cities for a Food Service Director?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $89,718
In San Francisco, a leader in food service enjoys a vibrant culinary scene. With top companies like Bon Appétit and Aramark, professionals thrive in a city known for its diverse food culture.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $83,780
San Jose offers a dynamic environment for food service leaders. Companies like Sodexo and Compass Group provide opportunities to innovate in a tech-driven city.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $83,176
Sacramento presents a unique blend of urban and rural food service opportunities. With companies like Aramark and Bon Appétit, professionals can make a significant impact.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $78,066
Los Angeles is a bustling hub for food service directors. With major companies like Sodexo and Aramark, leaders can enjoy a diverse and dynamic food scene.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $76,562
Boulder offers a healthy and vibrant food service environment. With companies like Bon Appétit and Chartwells, professionals can thrive in a community that values wellness.
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Springfield, IL
Average Salary: $75,017
Springfield provides a welcoming environment for food service leaders. With companies like Sodexo and Chartwells, professionals can enjoy a balanced lifestyle.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $73,491
New Haven offers a rich food culture for food service directors. With companies like Bon Appétit and Sodexo, professionals can enjoy a vibrant community.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $72,584
San Diego presents a sunny and vibrant environment for food service leaders. With companies like Aramark and Sodexo, professionals can enjoy a diverse culinary scene.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $71,688
Riverside offers a growing food service market. With companies like Bon Appétit and Chartwells, professionals can thrive in a community that values quality food.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $69,104
Seattle provides a unique food service environment. With companies like Bon Appétit and Sodexo, professionals can enjoy a vibrant and diverse culinary scene.
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What are the best companies a Food Service Director can work for?

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Restaurant Associates
Average Salary: $92,250
Restaurant Associates offers exciting Food Service Director jobs with competitive salaries. They operate in many locations, including New York, California, and Florida. Their focus on quality dining experiences makes them a great choice for those looking to lead in the food service industry.
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FLIK Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $91,691
FLIK Hospitality Group provides rewarding Food Service Director positions. They manage locations in cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Miami. The company values innovation and teamwork, offering a dynamic environment for career growth.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $90,595
Kaiser Permanente offers Food Service Director jobs with a strong focus on health and wellness. They operate in states such as California, Colorado, and Virginia. This company provides a supportive environment for those who want to make a difference in the food service sector.
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Bon Appétit
Average Salary: $87,441
Bon Appétit is known for its diverse Food Service Director roles. They have locations across the country, including New York, Texas, and Washington. The company emphasizes sustainability and community service, making it a great fit for socially conscious professionals.
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Meriwether Godsey
Average Salary: $84,806
Meriwether Godsey offers Food Service Director jobs with a focus on luxury dining. They operate in upscale locations in cities like Atlanta, Nashville, and Austin. This company values excellence and creativity, providing a prestigious environment for career advancement.
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HEALTHCARE NURSING
Average Salary: $84,444
HEALTHCARE NURSING provides Food Service Director positions with a focus on healthcare facilities. They operate in states such as California, Florida, and New York. This company offers a unique opportunity to combine food service with healthcare, providing a fulfilling career path.
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Compass Group
Average Salary: $82,258
Compass Group offers Food Service Director jobs with a wide range of locations. They operate in cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York. The company values diversity and inclusion, providing a supportive environment for all employees.
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ISS Facility Services
Average Salary: $81,697
ISS Facility Services offers Food Service Director positions with a focus on facility management. They operate in states such as California, Texas, and Florida. This company provides a stable and rewarding career path for those interested in food service management.
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Eurest
Average Salary: $80,592
Eurest provides Food Service Director jobs with a global presence. They operate in countries like the United States, France, and the United Kingdom. The company emphasizes innovation and customer satisfaction, offering a dynamic and exciting work environment.
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State of Illinois
Average Salary: $79,787
The State of Illinois offers Food Service Director positions with a focus on public service. They operate in various locations across Illinois. This company provides a stable and rewarding career path for those who want to serve their community through food service management.
How to earn more as a Food Service Director?
A Food Service Director can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. One important factor is gaining additional certifications. These can include certifications in food safety, nutrition, or management. They also can help demonstrate a commitment to excellence and can make a candidate more attractive to employers.
Another way to earn more is to take on more responsibilities. This can include managing larger teams, overseeing multiple locations, or implementing new programs. These added duties often come with higher pay. Directors who show they can handle more complex tasks may also be seen as better candidates for promotions. Networking with other professionals in the industry can also lead to higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with peers can open doors to new jobs and higher salaries. Finally, gaining experience in different types of food service settings can make a director more versatile and valuable. This can include working in restaurants, hospitals, schools, or corporate settings. Each of these environments has its own challenges and can provide unique skills that are attractive to employers.
Here are five factors that can help increase earnings as a Food Service Director:
- Obtain additional certifications
- Take on more responsibilities
- Network with other professionals
- Gain experience in different settings
- Seek out higher-paying opportunities



