How much does a Food Service Director make?
A Food Service Director plays a key role in managing food services in various settings. They oversee the preparation and delivery of meals, ensuring quality and safety. This important job comes with a good salary. On average, a Food Service Director earns about $51,927 per year. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of employer.
The salary for a Food Service Director can range widely. The lowest 10% earn around $28,000, while the top 10% can make over $93,000. Most directors fall between $39,871 and $69,549. This range shows that with more experience and skills, the salary can increase. Directors in larger cities or high-end restaurants often earn more. This job offers good earning potential for those who work hard and gain the necessary experience.
What are the highest paying cities for a Food Service Director?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $89,491
In San Francisco, a leading role in food service management can be found in top-tier restaurants and hotels. With companies like Google and Salesforce nearby, there is a high demand for quality catering services.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $84,563
San Jose offers a dynamic environment for food service directors. The tech industry's presence means many opportunities in corporate dining and event management. Companies like Apple and Cisco are potential employers.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $81,486
Sacramento provides a stable market for food service directors. The city's government and educational institutions create a steady need for catering services. Local chains and restaurants also offer diverse opportunities.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $76,182
Boulder is known for its vibrant food scene. Food service directors here enjoy working in a community that values fresh, local ingredients. The university and outdoor culture add to the unique dining experience.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $75,537
New Haven offers a mix of traditional and modern dining experiences. Food service directors can find opportunities in universities and local businesses. The city's rich history adds a unique charm to the culinary scene.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $75,290
Los Angeles is a bustling hub for food service directors. The entertainment industry and diverse population create a high demand for catering services. Working here means being part of a fast-paced, innovative environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $70,943
San Diego offers a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere for food service directors. The city's beaches and military presence provide a unique market for catering. Local restaurants and hotels offer diverse opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $68,293
Boston's rich history and academic institutions create a unique market for food service directors. The city's diverse population and vibrant food scene offer many opportunities in both traditional and modern dining.
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Springfield, IL
Average Salary: $67,433
Springfield provides a balanced market for food service directors. The city's central location and mix of industries offer steady opportunities. Local businesses and educational institutions are key employers.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $65,845
Seattle is known for its coffee culture and fresh seafood. Food service directors here enjoy working in a city that values quality and sustainability. The tech industry and local restaurants offer diverse opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Food Service Director can work for?

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Restaurant Associates
Average Salary: $92,444
Restaurant Associates offers exciting Food Service Director jobs. They manage dining services in many restaurants across the country. Their locations include major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
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FLIK Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $91,894
FLIK Hospitality Group provides top-notch Food Service Director positions. They focus on delivering high-quality dining experiences in hotels and resorts. Their operations span across the United States, including popular destinations like Las Vegas and Miami.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $87,526
Kaiser Permanente offers rewarding Food Service Director roles. They manage food services in their healthcare facilities. Their locations include California, Colorado, and Washington.
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Meriwether Godsey
Average Salary: $84,921
Meriwether Godsey provides dynamic Food Service Director jobs. They manage dining services in various settings. Their operations include cities like Atlanta, Nashville, and Charlotte.
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Brightview Senior Living
Average Salary: $84,664
Brightview Senior Living offers fulfilling Food Service Director positions. They focus on providing excellent dining experiences for seniors. Their locations include many states across the U.S.
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ISS Facility Services
Average Salary: $84,011
ISS Facility Services offers competitive Food Service Director jobs. They manage dining services in corporate and educational settings. Their operations cover many cities nationwide.
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Compass Group
Average Salary: $82,277
Compass Group provides diverse Food Service Director roles. They manage dining services in various industries. Their locations include major cities like Dallas, San Francisco, and Boston.
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HEALTHCARE NURSING
Average Salary: $80,529
HEALTHCARE NURSING offers rewarding Food Service Director positions. They focus on providing quality dining services in healthcare facilities. Their locations include many states across the U.S.
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Eurest
Average Salary: $80,256
Eurest provides exciting Food Service Director jobs. They manage dining services in corporate and educational settings. Their operations cover many cities nationwide.
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Unidine
Average Salary: $79,645
Unidine offers fulfilling Food Service Director roles. They focus on providing excellent dining experiences in various settings. Their locations include many states across the U.S.
How to earn more as a Food Service Director?
A Food Service Director can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. These areas not only improve job performance but also open up higher-paying opportunities. One important factor is gaining experience in various types of food service operations. This includes restaurants, catering companies, and institutional settings. Each experience adds to a director's skill set and makes them more valuable.
Another factor is obtaining certifications that are recognized in the industry. Certifications such as the Certified Food Protection Professional (CFP) or ServSafe Manager Certification can lead to higher pay. These certifications show a commitment to quality and safety, which is highly valued by employers. Continuing education and training also help keep skills up to date. This makes a director more competitive in the job market. Networking with other professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities that pay more. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help build these connections. Finally, taking on leadership roles in projects can demonstrate a director's ability to manage and innovate. This can lead to promotions and higher salaries.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Food Service Director:
- Gain experience in various food service operations.
- Obtain recognized industry certifications.
- Continue education and training to stay current.
- Network with other professionals in the field.
- Take on leadership roles in projects.