Top 11 Restaurant Assistant Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a restaurant assistant manager in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the applicant is knowledgeable and has the skills necessary to succeed in their position. Certifications show employers that the applicant has taken the initiative to learn about best practices, industry standards, and food safety regulations, which can be invaluable assets in any restaurant setting. Additionally, certifications can help an applicant stand out from other candidates by providing evidence of their commitment to professional development.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Restaurant Assistant Managers, and explains how they can help to advance an assistant manager's career.

What are Restaurant Assistant Manager Certifications?

Restaurant assistant manager certification is a professional credential that validates an individual's knowledge and experience in managing restaurant operations. This certification demonstrates an individual's commitment to the hospitality industry and provides employers with assurance that the person they are hiring has the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to effectively manage a restaurant.

The certification program covers topics such as food safety and sanitation, customer service, personnel management, financial management, marketing and sales strategies, supply chain management, legal issues related to the hospitality industry, and more. The coursework also includes hands-on training in areas such as food preparation techniques, inventory control procedures, and cost containment methods.

By obtaining this certification, individuals can demonstrate to potential employers their commitment to excellence in the hospitality field. It also provides them with a competitive advantage over those who do not have it by showing they have taken the initiative to further their education in this area. Additionally, having this credential can help individuals stand out from other job applicants when applying for positions within the restaurant industry. Finally, it can provide them with access to professional development opportunities that may not be available otherwise.

Pro Tip: Before seeking restaurant assistant manager certification, make sure you have ample experience in the restaurant industry. This will help you gain a better understanding of the concepts and responsibilities that come with the job. Additionally, take advantage of online resources such as webinars and e-courses to further develop your skills.

Related: What does a Restaurant Assistant Manager do?

Top 11 Restaurant Assistant Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Restaurant Assistant Managers today.

1. ServSafe Manager Certification

ServSafe Manager Certification is a food safety certification program designed to help food service managers protect their customers from foodborne illness. It is administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The certification is valid for five years and requires passing an exam that covers topics such as food safety regulations, proper hygiene practices, and safe food handling techniques.

To get ServSafe Manager Certification, individuals must first complete a training course that covers the seven key areas of food safety: personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, time/temperature control, cleaning and sanitizing, receiving and storage, HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points), and pest control. After completing the training course, individuals must pass a proctored exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of ServSafe Manager Certification varies depending on the type of training course taken. Online courses typically range from $50-$100 while classroom courses can range from $125-$200. The cost of the proctored exam is usually included in the price of the training course.

2. Certified Food Service Manager (CFM)

A Certified Food Service Manager (CFM) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in food safety, sanitation, and management. The CFM credential is issued by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

In order to become certified, an individual must complete a two-part process: first, they must pass an accredited food safety and sanitation course; second, they must pass the CFM exam. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as food safety regulations, food handling techniques, and operational management.

The length of time it takes to become certified depends on how quickly an individual can complete the required coursework and take the exam. Most courses are offered online and can be completed in as little as 8 weeks. The exam itself takes approximately 3 hours to complete.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on where you take your coursework and which type of certification you pursue (e.g., basic or advanced). Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $150-$300 for the coursework plus $75 for the exam fee.

3. Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS)

Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) is a professional certification program offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). The CHS credential is designed to recognize hospitality professionals who demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in the areas of hospitality operations, guest service, and supervision.

The CHS certification program consists of two parts: an online self-study course and a proctored exam. The self-study course covers topics such as customer service, hospitality operations, human resources management, financial management, and marketing. The proctored exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of the material covered in the self-study course.

The entire certification process typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete. To become certified, candidates must first purchase the CHS Self-Study Course from AHLEI ($375 USD). After studying the material, they must then register for and pass a proctored exam at an approved testing center ($180 USD). Upon successful completion of both parts of the program, candidates will receive their official CHS certificate.

4. National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) Manager Certificate Program

The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) Manager Certificate Program is an online course designed to help restaurant managers develop their skills and knowledge in the industry. The program consists of six modules, each focusing on a different aspect of restaurant management. The modules include topics such as food safety and sanitation, customer service, human resources, operations and financial management. Participants are required to complete all six modules in order to receive the certificate.

The program takes approximately 12 weeks to complete depending on how much time you dedicate to it each week. Each module has a set of learning objectives that must be met in order for participants to move onto the next module. Participants are also required to take a final exam at the end of the program.

In order to get the certificate, participants must register for the program by creating an account on NRAEF's website and pay the fee which is currently $399 USD. Once registered, participants will have access to all six modules which can be completed at their own pace over 12 weeks. Upon successful completion of all six modules and passing the final exam with a score of 70% or higher, participants will receive their NRAEF Manager Certificate via email.

The cost for this program is $399 USD and does not include any additional materials or textbooks that may be needed throughout the course.

5. Professional Food Manager Certification (PFMC)

Professional Food Manager Certification (PFMC) is a certification program designed to ensure that food service professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely handle and prepare food for public consumption. The program is administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

The PFMC program consists of an online course, followed by an exam. The online course covers topics such as food safety regulations, proper food handling techniques, personal hygiene practices, and other important aspects of food safety. The exam is administered at a certified testing center and must be passed in order to receive the certification.

The online course typically takes between 5-7 hours to complete, depending on the student's familiarity with the material. After passing the exam, students will receive their certificate within 4-6 weeks.

The cost of the PFMC program varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD. It may also include additional fees for taking the exam at a certified testing center.

6. National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP)

The National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP) is a certification program that provides food safety professionals with the most current and comprehensive training in food safety. The NRFSP is recognized by the FDA, USDA, and other regulatory agencies as a valid certification for those working in the food industry.

The NRFSP certification process consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as foodborne illness, food safety regulations, sanitation practices, and more. It typically takes between 8-10 hours to complete the online course. After completing the course, you must pass a proctored exam to receive your certification. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and typically takes about 2 hours to complete.

To get certified through the NRFSP, you must first register for the program on their website. You will then be asked to pay a fee which varies depending on whether you are registering as an individual or as part of a group. For individuals, it costs $150 USD for the online course and $125 USD for the exam. For groups of 10 or more people, it costs $100 USD per person for both the online course and exam.

Once you have completed both parts of the program, you will receive your official NRFSP certificate in approximately 4 weeks via email or mail depending on your preference.

7. American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) Certified Restaurant Supervisor

The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) Certified Restaurant Supervisor (CRS) program is a professional certification designed to provide restaurant supervisors with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully manage a restaurant. The CRS program consists of two courses: Principles of Restaurant Supervision and Advanced Restaurant Supervision.

The Principles of Restaurant Supervision course provides an introduction to the basics of restaurant supervision, including topics such as customer service, personnel management, food safety, and sanitation. The Advanced Restaurant Supervision course covers topics such as financial management, marketing, menu planning, and operations.

It typically takes about two weeks to complete both courses in the CRS program. The courses can be taken online or in person at an AHLEI-approved training center. The cost for the CRS program varies depending on the training provider but generally ranges from $400-$600. After successful completion of both courses, students are eligible to take the CRS exam which must be completed within six months of completing the coursework. Upon passing this exam, individuals earn their Certified Restaurant Supervisor credential from AHLEI.

8. National Restaurant Association's ServSafe Alcohol Primary and Advanced Training

The National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe Alcohol Primary and Advanced Training is a comprehensive program designed to help restaurant and bar employees learn responsible alcohol service. The program covers topics such as state and local laws, recognizing signs of intoxication, preventing underage drinking, identifying fake IDs, and more.

The program consists of two levels: Primary and Advanced. The Primary level focuses on the basics of responsible alcohol service while the Advanced level goes into greater detail on topics such as liability issues, dealing with difficult customers, and more.

The training typically takes 8-10 hours to complete depending on the level chosen. It can be taken in person or online through an approved provider.

The cost for the training varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $50 - $100 for the Primary level and $75 - $150 for the Advanced level.

9. International Council on Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education (ICHRIE) Certified Professional in Hospitality Management

The International Council on Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education (ICHRIE) Certified Professional in Hospitality Management (CPHM) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have met the highest standards of professional excellence in hospitality management. The CPHM certification is designed to recognize and reward those who have achieved a level of knowledge, skills, and experience in the field of hospitality management.

It takes approximately one year to complete the CPHM program. Candidates must pass an exam consisting of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as human resources, operations management, marketing, financial management, and legal issues related to hospitality management. In addition to passing the exam, candidates must also demonstrate their commitment to continuing education by completing at least 30 hours of approved continuing education activities within two years prior to applying for certification.

To get the CPHM certification, applicants must first submit an application with all required documents and fees. Once accepted into the program, applicants must then pass the exam and complete all required continuing education activities before being awarded their certification.

The cost for the CPHM program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of ICHRIE. For members, it costs $450 for registration plus $100 for each additional hour of continuing education activities completed beyond the required 30 hours. For non-members, it costs $550 for registration plus $125 for each additional hour of continuing education activities completed beyond the required 30 hours.

10. National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) Certified Catering Executive

The National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) Certified Catering Executive (CCE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward catering professionals who have achieved the highest level of knowledge, experience, and expertise in the field. This certification is awarded to those who demonstrate excellence in their craft through rigorous testing and evaluation.

It typically takes about two years to become a CCE. The process begins with completing an application form that includes questions about your work experience, education, and other qualifications. After submitting the application, you will be required to take an exam that covers topics such as food safety, menu planning and design, cost analysis, event management, customer service and more. Once you pass the exam, you are officially a CCE.

To get your CCE certification, you must first join NACE as a member. Membership fees vary depending on the type of membership chosen but range from $50-$150 per year. After joining NACE, you can then register for the exam by filling out an online form or downloading it from their website. The cost of taking the exam is $250 plus any applicable taxes or fees.

Once you have passed the exam and become certified as a CCE, there are many benefits that come with this designation including access to exclusive networking events, discounts on educational materials and resources, recognition within the industry and more. Additionally, having this certification may also help boost your career prospects as employers often look for candidates with specialized knowledge in catering operations when hiring for positions in the field.

11. American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Executive Chef

The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Executive Chef is a professional certification program that recognizes the highest level of culinary knowledge and expertise. It is designed to validate the skills, knowledge, and experience of experienced chefs who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in the culinary profession.

To become an ACF Certified Executive Chef, you must have at least five years of professional cooking experience, including two years in a supervisory role. You must also have completed an ACF-approved apprenticeship or culinary degree program, as well as passed a comprehensive written exam and practical evaluation.

The process for becoming an ACF Certified Executive Chef typically takes about six months from start to finish. To begin the process, you must first submit your application materials online or by mail. This includes providing proof of education and work experience, along with references from employers or colleagues who can attest to your professional qualifications. Once your application has been approved, you will be invited to take the written exam and practical evaluation at an ACF-approved testing center near you.

The cost of becoming an ACF Certified Executive Chef varies depending on the type of membership you choose. The basic fee for non-members is $550; however, if you are already an ACF member, this fee may be reduced or waived altogether. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exams and evaluations at certain testing centers.

Do You Really Need a Restaurant Assistant Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's goals and current job situation. If someone is currently working in a restaurant and is looking to move up the ladder, then obtaining a Restaurant Assistant Manager Certificate may be beneficial. It can provide the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to become an assistant manager or even a general manager.

Having a certificate also shows potential employers that you are serious about your career and have taken the initiative to gain additional knowledge. On top of that, it can also open up more opportunities for advancement within the restaurant industry.

However, if someone already has experience in managing restaurants or has been working as an assistant manager for some time, then they may not need to obtain a certificate. In this case, it may be more beneficial to focus on gaining more experience or expanding their network within the industry instead.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what will help an individual reach their career goals. A Restaurant Assistant Manager Certificate may be helpful for those starting out in the industry or looking to move up the ladder quickly, but it is not essential for everyone.

Related: Restaurant Assistant Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Restaurant Assistant Manager Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a restaurant assistant manager?

Answer: Generally, you will need at least 3 years of experience in the restaurant industry and a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may also require a college degree in hospitality or business management.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a restaurant assistant manager?

Answer: It typically takes about 3-4 months for most individuals to complete the certification process, depending on their level of experience and other factors.

3. What is the cost of getting certified as a restaurant assistant manager?

Answer: The cost of certification varies depending on the program you choose and can range from $100-$500. Additionally, some employers may cover part or all of the cost.

4. What types of tasks will I be responsible for as a restaurant assistant manager?

Answer: As an assistant manager, you will be responsible for supervising staff, managing customer service, handling inventory and ordering supplies, developing menus, and more.

5. Are there any online courses available for becoming a certified restaurant assistant manager?

Answer: Yes! There are many online courses available that provide comprehensive training on topics such as menu planning, customer service skills, food safety practices, financial management, and more.