Head Chef in Overland-Park, KS
Head Chefs in Overland-Park, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $31.59 per hour, which translates to about $1,263.60 per week, $5,475.60 per month, and $65,707.20 per year.
The job outlook for Head Chefs in Overland-Park is growing at a solid rate of 5% per year, indicating increasing opportunities and demand in the culinary industry within the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Overland-Park, KS?
The earnings of a Head Chef in Overland-Park vary based on experience, skill level, and the establishment. Here’s a breakdown across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.08 | $923.20 | $3,997.33 | $47,918.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.59 | $1,263.60 | $5,475.60 | $65,707.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $52.88 | $2,115.20 | $9,156.53 | $109,990.40 |
Do Head Chefs in Overland-Park Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily kitchen-based rather than customer-facing. Their income relies mainly on their salary rather than additional gratuities.
Head Chef Salary in Overland-Park, KS vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of about $32.93 per hour, translating to approximately $68,494.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Overland-Park make slightly less hourly at $31.59 per hour and about $65,707.20 annually. This difference could be influenced by the local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Overland-Park for Head Chefs
Nearby establishments offer competitive pay for Head Chefs:
- Fiorella's Jack Stack BBQ: $52.88 per hour
- Great Wolf Lodge: $39.66 per hour
Working at Fiorella’s Jack Stack BBQ offers substantially higher hourly wages, reflecting the restaurant's prestige and possibly its clientele's expectations.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Overland-Park?
Several factors greatly influence the salary of a Head Chef in Overland-Park:
- Experience and Expertise: A Head Chef’s years in the kitchen and culinary skills can push salaries higher, especially with specialization in cuisines or management abilities.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or luxury resorts typically pay more than casual dining or quick-service venues due to customer expectations and operational budgets.
- Management Responsibilities: Head Chefs who oversee larger teams and handle more administrative duties tend to earn more.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary degrees or certifications can enhance credentials and salary prospects.
- Local Market Demand: The competitive landscape in Overland-Park and surrounding areas shapes salary scales.
How To Become a Head Chef in Overland-Park
Starting a career as a Head Chef in Overland-Park involves several important steps to develop skills and credentials.
Many aspiring Head Chefs choose formal education such as the Johnson County Community College Chef Apprenticeship Program, an Associate of Applied Science degree that combines hands-on training with hospitality theory endorsed by national culinary bodies. Alternatively, the Food and Beverage Management Program at the same college focuses on managing operations and culinary arts, which can be valuable for leadership roles.
Culinary safety certifications are critical. The nationally recognized ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification ensures knowledge of strict food safety practices and is often a prerequisite for Head Chefs. For seasoned professionals, achieving the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates advanced culinary and managerial expertise, boosting employability and earning potential.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Overland-Park
The following esteemed employers in Overland-Park are known to hire skilled Head Chefs:
- Fiorella's Jack Stack BBQ
- Great Wolf Lodge
- Resort Lifestyle Communities
Establishments That Head Chefs in Overland-Park Work At
Head Chefs typically find opportunities across diverse types of dining establishments including casual dining, fast casual, fine dining, resorts, and catering companies.
Fine Dining and High-End Restaurants tend to offer the highest salaries due to the culinary skill level required and expect gourmet offerings.
Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants offer moderate wages but can provide good experience with a faster-paced environment.
Resorts and Large Hospitality Venues often pay competitively because of the scale of operation and the variety of menu offerings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Overland-Park for Head Chefs
If you’re interested in roles similar to Head Chef, consider these related hospitality positions in Overland-Park:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share leadership and culinary skills with the Head Chef role.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Overland-Park
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is essential for Head Chefs in Overland-Park to ensure compliance with employment regulations.
- Review Kansas-specific labor laws and resources on the State of Kansas official website.
- For federal labor regulations and guidance, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.