Catering Manager Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee, Wisconsin$56,400 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Catering Manager Jobs in Milwaukee

Looking for a Catering Manager job in Milwaukee? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Catering Manager in Milwaukee, WI.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Milwaukee has a strong job market for Catering Managers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Catering Manager Salary in Milwaukee

Entry Level
$35,955
Median
$56,400
Senior Level
$81,075

Catering Manager salaries in Milwaukee are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Milwaukee is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Event PlanningClient RelationsMenu PlanningStaff CoordinationBudget Management

Catering Manager Job Market in Milwaukee

Milwaukee, WI is a major regional employment hub for Catering Manager professionals. As a mid-sized metro with 577K residents, Milwaukee balances career opportunities with quality of life. While Manufacturing leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Catering Manager roles across various sectors. The market for Catering Manager positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Catering Managers in Milwaukee

City of MilwaukeeMCTSWe EnergiesMilwaukee Public Schools

Major employers hiring Catering Managers in Milwaukee include City of Milwaukee, MCTS, We Energies, Milwaukee Public Schools. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Catering Managers in Milwaukee

Living in Milwaukee as a Catering Manager means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,200/month (33% below the national average). Housing costs are manageable for Catering Manager salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $950/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

94
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.2K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Catering Manager in Milwaukee

Milwaukee Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Catering Managers in Milwaukee: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Catering Manager professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has relatively high state income taxes. A Catering Manager earning $56,400 might pay approximately $4,512 in state income tax. However, Wisconsin's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Catering Managers

The job outlook for Catering Managers in Milwaukee is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Milwaukee's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Event Planning, Client Relations, Menu Planning, Staff Coordination.

Relocating to Milwaukee

Milwaukee's affordable cost of living means your Catering Manager salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Wisconsin has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Catering Manager salary in Milwaukee, WI?

The average Catering Manager salary in Milwaukee, WI is $56,400 per year. Entry-level Catering Managers typically start around $35,955, while experienced professionals can earn $81,075 or more. The national average for Catering Manager roles is $60,000.

How many Catering Manager jobs are available in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee has a strong job market with regular openings for Catering Manager professionals. Major employers hiring Catering Managers include City of Milwaukee, MCTS, We Energies, Milwaukee Public Schools. The Manufacturing and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Milwaukee a good city for Catering Managers?

Milwaukee is an very good choice for Catering Managers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's manufacturing industry creates strong demand for hospitality & tourism professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Catering Managers in Milwaukee?

Top skills for Catering Managers in Milwaukee include Event Planning, Client Relations, Menu Planning, Staff Coordination, Budget Management. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Catering Managers in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee's cost of living is near the national average (94% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,200/month. Purchasing power in Milwaukee is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Catering Managers in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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