5 Highest Paying Jobs In The Hospitality Industry

Many people believe that the only hospitality jobs available are servers, baristas, tour guides, etc. However, this industry offers many paths towards a vibrant and dynamic career path beyond those entry level jobs. Working your way up the ladder can lead to a rewarding career, both personally and financially.

In this blog post, you will learn about the top 5 highest paying jobs in the hospitality industry.

Top 5 High Paying Hospitality Jobs

1. Hotel Manager

Average Salary: $96,169-$141,195

Hotel Managers (aka General Managers) are the backbone of any successful hotel. They oversee every aspect of hotel operations to ensure guests receive high-quality service.

Duties:

• Oversee daily operations of the hotel
• Ensure guest satisfaction and handle guest complaints
• Manage budgets and financial plans
• Supervise maintenance, supplies, renovations, and furnishings
• Deal with contractors and suppliers
• Ensure compliance with licensing laws, health and safety, and other statutory regulations

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management, Business Administration, or relevant field
• Significant experience in the hospitality industry, preferably in a supervisory or managerial role
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage staff

2. Executive Chef

Average Salary: $81,828 to $109,780

Executive Chefs are the curators of a hotel or restaurant’s menu. They lead the kitchen with creativity, passion, and precision in food preparation and presentation.

Duties:

• Plan and direct food preparation and culinary activities
• Modify menus or create new ones that meet quality standards
• Estimate food requirements and food/labor costs
• Supervise kitchen staff’s activities
• Arrange for equipment purchases and repairs
• Recruit, manage, and train kitchen staff

Qualifications:

• Culinary school diploma or degree in food service management or related field
• Proven experience as a head chef
• Excellent knowledge of food handling and sanitation standards

3. Sommelier

Average Salary: $30,000-$150,000 per year, depending on experience

Sommeliers are wine experts who specialize in all aspects of wine service, including suggesting wine and food pairings. They predominantly work in fine dining establishments within the hospitality industry.

Duties:

• Develop wine lists and ensure wine is available
• Advise guests on wines based on their tastes and food choices
• Manage the wine cellar and inventory
• Train other restaurant staff about the basics of sommellerie
• Organize wine tastings and wine-focused events

Qualifications:

• Certification from a recognized wine school (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers)
• Extensive knowledge of wine and strong communication skills
• Experience in the hospitality industry, particularly in fine dining

4. Housekeeping Director

Average Salary: $85,000 to $111,200

A Housekeeping Director ensures the maintenance of all rooms and public hotel areas. They manage the housekeeping staff and operations.

Duties:

• Oversee the daily operations of the housekeeping department
• Ensure the cleanliness of rooms and public areas
• Manage the housekeeping budget
• Train and supervise housekeeping staff
• Ensure compliance with health and safety standards

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as housekeeping manager or similar role
• Strong organizational and leadership skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management or relevant field is preferred

5. Events Manager

Average Salary: $100,008 and $126,074

Events Managers plan and execute a wide range of events. They ensure everything runs smoothly and meets client and guest expectations.

Duties:

• Plan, organize, and coordinate events from conception to completion
• Liaise with clients to identify their needs and ensure customer satisfaction
• Conduct market research and gather information
• Propose ideas to improve services and event quality
• Coordinate all operations, leading promotional activities for the event

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as an event manager
• Skilled in project management
• Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Hospitality Management, or related field

Dr. Bharat Lall has been a hospitality property owner for the last 30 years. He is a member of the Hotel Lodgings Association and the Asian American Hotel Owners Association. Visit Dr. Bharat Lall’s blog to learn more about the hotel, hospitality, and tourism industries.