Highest-Paying Hospitality Jobs: 7 Lucrative Careers

If you’re looking for a career in the hospitality industry, there are numerous opportunities to explore. From hotels to restaurants, cruises to event planning, the possibilities are endless. However, not all hospitality jobs are created equal when it comes to pay. If you’re seeking a lucrative career in this field, here are seven of the highest-paying hospitality jobs to consider:

1. Hotel Manager

A hotel manager oversees the daily operations of a hotel, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. They are responsible for managing staff, handling guest complaints, and ensuring that the hotel is profitable. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for hotel managers is $54,430. However, those in the top 10% can earn more than $111,000 per year.

How to Become a Hotel Manager:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management or a related field.
2. Gain experience in the hospitality industry, such as working in a hotel or restaurant.
3. Consider obtaining certification from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute.

2. Event Planner

An event planner is responsible for organizing and executing events, such as weddings, conferences, and corporate events. They work with clients to determine their needs, select vendors, and oversee the event on the day-of. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for event planners is $50,600. However, those in the top 10% can earn more than $86,390 per year.

How to Become an Event Planner:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, marketing, or a related field.
2. Gain experience planning events through internships or entry-level positions.
3. Consider obtaining certification from the Convention Industry Council or the International Live Events Association.

3. Food Service Manager

A food service manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a restaurant or other food service establishment. They manage staff, handle customer complaints, and ensure that the restaurant is profitable. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for food service managers is $55,320. However, those in the top 10% can earn more than $93,370 per year.

How to Become a Food Service Manager:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management or a related field.
2. Gain experience in the food service industry, such as working in a restaurant or catering company.
3. Consider obtaining certification from the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation.

4. Casino Manager

A casino manager oversees the daily operations of a casino, including gaming, food and beverage, and entertainment. They manage staff, ensure that the casino is compliant with regulations, and handle customer complaints. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for gaming managers (which includes casino managers) is $76,220. However, those in the top 10% can earn more than $116,840 per year.

How to Become a Casino Manager:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, business, or a related field.
2. Gain experience in the gaming industry, such as working in a casino or hotel.
3. Consider obtaining certification from the International Gaming Institute or the Casino Management Association.

5. Air Traffic Controller

While not typically thought of as a hospitality job, air traffic controllers play a vital role in the travel industry. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of air traffic in and out of airports. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for air traffic controllers is $122,990.

How to Become an Air Traffic Controller:

1. Earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in air traffic control or a related field.
2. Complete an air traffic control training program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
3. Pass the FAA’s air traffic control pre-employment test and meet other requirements, such as age and medical standards.

6. Cruise Director

A cruise director is responsible for overseeing entertainment and activities on a cruise ship. They plan and organize events, manage staff, and ensure that guests have a memorable experience. According to Salary.com, the median annual salary for cruise directors is $55,027.

How to Become a Cruise Director:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, entertainment, or a related field.
2. Gain experience in the hospitality or entertainment industry, such as working on a cruise ship or in a hotel.
3. Consider obtaining certification from the Cruise Lines International Association.

7. Executive Chef

An executive chef is responsible for overseeing the kitchen in a restaurant or other food service establishment. They create menus, manage staff, and ensure that food quality and safety standards are met. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for chefs and head cooks (which includes executive chefs) is $51,530. However, those in the top 10% can earn more than $86,990 per year.

How to Become an Executive Chef:

1. Earn a degree or certificate in culinary arts or a related field.
2. Gain experience in the food service industry, such as working in a restaurant or catering company.
3. Consider obtaining certification from the American Culinary Federation.

Conclusion

There are numerous career opportunities in the hospitality industry, but some offer higher pay than others. If you’re looking for a lucrative career in this field, consider becoming a hotel manager, event planner, food service manager, casino manager, air traffic controller, cruise director, or executive chef.

FAQs

What is the hospitality industry?

The hospitality industry includes businesses that provide services to people when they are away from home, such as hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

What skills do I need to work in the hospitality industry?

Some important skills for working in the hospitality industry include customer service, communication, problem-solving, and time management.

Do I need a degree to work in the hospitality industry?

While a degree can be helpful, it is not always required for entry-level positions in the hospitality industry. However, higher-level positions may require a degree or certification.

What is the outlook for jobs in the hospitality industry?

According to the BLS, employment in the hospitality industry is expected to grow 6% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

What is the average salary for hospitality jobs?

The average salary for hospitality jobs varies depending on the position and level of experience. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for all hospitality and tourism occupations was $31,520 in May 2020.