Explore This Path
Food Preparation Manager
💰 Earn $37K-$45K
📚 No Degree Required
⏱️ 0–6 Month Training
📈 -3% Job Growth
- Perfect for those passionate about food presentation and quality control.
- Ensures food safety and enhances dining experiences through meticulous preparation.
- Unique role blending creativity with precision in food service environments.
What Food Preparation Managers DoPerform a variety of food preparation duties other than cooking, such as preparing cold foods and shellfish, slicing meat, and brewing coffee or tea.
- Clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, utensils, dishes, or silverware.
- Store food in designated containers and storage areas to prevent spoilage.
- Portion and wrap food, or place it directly on plates for service to patrons.
- Take and record temperature of food and food storage areas, such as refrigerators and freezers.
- Prepare a variety of foods, such as meats, vegetables, or desserts, according to customers' orders or supervisors' instructions, following approved procedures.
Food Preparation Managers Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationNone
Career ProspectsShaky (Decreasing by 1-5%)
Training TimeLess than 6 months
Job Openings135,700 Annually
Median earnings
California Median
$39,350
Most earn within this range
median ▾
$37K25th percentile
$45K75th percentile
National Median
$35,320
Most earn within this range
median ▾
$30K25th percentile
$39K75th percentile
Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Using data or completing tasks
- Working with my hands
you value
- Having support
- Job security
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Social Perceptiveness
- Time Management
Go Deeper: Food Preparation Managers Explained
Food Preparation ManagerExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
Workforce Development ProgramA workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
find training near you
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Updated April 2026. Data sourced from O*NET and Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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