Head Chef Salary in Kansas City, KS
Head Chefs in Kansas City, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $26.34 per hour, which translates to about $1,053.60 per week, $4,565.60 per month, and $54,787.20 per year.
The job market for Head Chefs in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled culinary professionals to lead kitchens and innovate dining experiences in the area.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of a Head Chef in Kansas City can vary based on experience and the type of restaurant. Below is a detailed breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.56 | $942.40 | $4,067.73 | $49,004.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.34 | $1,053.60 | $4,565.60 | $54,787.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.85 | $1,154.00 | $5,001.33 | $60,008.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role focuses primarily on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally based on their salary and bonuses rather than gratuities.
Head Chef Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $28.85 per hour, which equates to about $60,008 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Kansas City earn slightly less, at approximately $26.34 per hour and $54,787.20 annually.
This difference can be attributed to regional cost of living and local economic factors impacting salaries in Kansas City.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Head Chefs
Looking at nearby locations, Head Chefs can find higher pay in:
- Lawrence: $37.60 per hour
- Manhattan: $37.07 per hour
- Overland Park: $30.63 per hour
These areas offer competitive wages, often reflecting a higher concentration of upscale dining establishments or larger metropolitan markets.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several key factors influence a Head Chef's salary in Kansas City, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Head Chefs who have mastered various cuisines and kitchen management tend to command higher wages.
- Skills and Specializations: Skills in menu development, inventory management, and staff leadership boost salary potential.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and large hotels usually offer higher pay than smaller, casual eateries.
- Location within Kansas City: Chefs working in busier or more upscale neighborhoods might earn more due to higher demand and clientele expectations.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications can increase earning potential.
How To Become a Head Chef in Kansas City
Becoming a Head Chef in Kansas City involves a combination of education, training, and experience:
- Complete a Culinary Arts Program: Institutions such as Kansas City Kansas Community College Culinary Arts Program and Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program offer excellent hands-on training and degrees.
- Obtain Industry Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe and Certified Executive Chef (CEC) demonstrate food safety knowledge and culinary excellence.
- Gain Work Experience: Progress through roles such as line cook or sous chef to build practical skills in a kitchen environment.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Effective kitchen management and team leadership are essential for a Head Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Kansas City
Several well-known employers in the Kansas City area seeking experienced Head Chefs include:
- Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
- Italian Delight
- Imo's Pizza
- 403 Club
- Chicago's
Establishments That Head Chefs in Kansas City Work At
Head Chefs are found working in a variety of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to the level of skill and creativity required.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These may pay less but often provide faster opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations often have higher pay scales and benefits.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: These can offer variable income depending on contract volume and clientele.
The type of establishment greatly impacts a Head Chef's salary, with upscale and high-volume venues generally offering the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Head Chefs
If you are exploring career options related to being a Head Chef, consider these similar roles:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, all of which carry related responsibilities and salary structures.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Kansas City
Head Chefs should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Kansas official website provides resources on state-specific labor laws and regulations.
- For local government information, the Kansas City, Kansas official website offers helpful employment resources.