Head Chef Salary in Lees-Summit, MO
Head Chefs in Lees-Summit, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $25.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,000.00 per week, $4,333.33 per month, and $52,000.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Lees-Summit is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising outlook for culinary professionals looking to establish or advance their careers in this area.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Lees-Summit, MO?
The salary of a Head Chef in Lees-Summit can vary based on experience and the employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Lees-Summit Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role primarily focuses on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Their income usually comprises salary or wages without additional tipping.
Head Chef Salary in Lees-Summit vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn on average around $28.00 per hour and $58,240 per year.
Comparing to Lees-Summit, Head Chefs earn slightly less at the mid-level wage of $25.00 per hour, which equates to $52,000 annually. This difference likely reflects local living costs and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lees-Summit for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive pay rates:
- Downtown: $27.00 per hour
- Westside: $26.50 per hour
Head Chefs working in Downtown may enjoy higher earnings due to greater restaurant density and potentially higher-end dining establishments.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Lees-Summit?
Several key factors can influence a Head Chef's salary including:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Head Chefs with diverse culinary skills, leadership abilities, and menu development expertise often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or luxury hotels typically offer higher salaries compared to casual or fast-food outlets.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can enhance earning potential.
- Kitchen Size and Complexity: Managing a larger kitchen with a bigger team and complex menus can lead to higher pay.
- Local Market Demand: The competitive landscape and demand for culinary professionals in Lees-Summit impact wage levels.
How To Become a Head Chef in Lees-Summit
Becoming a Head Chef in Lees-Summit typically involves a combination of formal education and practical experience.
Consider enrolling in notable culinary programs such as the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program nearby. These programs offer comprehensive hands-on training in food preparation, kitchen management, and nutrition essential for aspiring chefs.
Additionally, earning certifications like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification or the esteemed Certified Executive Chef (CEC) offered by the American Culinary Federation can boost credentials and career prospects.
Gaining progressive kitchen experience, starting from junior chef positions and moving upward, combined with developing leadership and organizational skills, is critical for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Lees-Summit
Several notable employers actively seek qualified Head Chefs in Lees-Summit, including:
- Jack Stack Barbecue
- Olive Garden Italian Restaurants
- Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
- John Knox Village
- Martin City Brewery
Establishments That Head Chefs in Lees-Summit Work At
Head Chefs in Lees-Summit typically work across a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate salaries and often provide opportunities for creative menu choices.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Pay may be somewhat lower but with faster-paced operations.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually provide higher salaries and require refined culinary and managerial skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often offer competitive pay and benefits due to the volume and scale of operations.
- Catering Services: Provide unique experiences which may affect wage levels depending on clientele and event size.
The type and reputation of the establishment can significantly influence salary, with more prestigious venues generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lees-Summit for Head Chefs
If you are interested in roles related to Head Chef, consider exploring similar careers in the hospitality industry.
These positions include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, all of which share related culinary and leadership responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Lees-Summit
Head Chefs should be familiar with both federal and state labor regulations and tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Access valuable labor law information on the U.S. Department of Labor official website.
- For state-specific labor laws and resources, visit the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.
- The Official website of Lee's Summit, MO also offers local government information and helpful resources for employees and employers.