Head Chef Salary in Wichita, KS
Head Chefs in Wichita, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $23.97 per hour, which translates to about $958.80 per week, $4,154.80 per month, and $49,857.60 per year.
The job market for Head Chefs in Wichita is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and rising demand for skilled culinary leaders in the region's food industry.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Wichita, KS?
The salary of a Head Chef in Wichita varies based on experience, skills, and the establishment, but here is an overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.42 | $576.80 | $2,476.27 | $29,718.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.95 | $878.00 | $3,795.33 | $45,656.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.13 | $1,405.20 | $6,088.40 | $73,000.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Wichita, KS Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come primarily from their salary or wages.
Head Chef Salary in Wichita, KS vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn about $25.07 per hour, which amounts to roughly $52,145.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Wichita earn slightly less hourly ($23.97 versus $25.07) and annually ($49,857.60 compared to $52,145.60), reflecting regional cost of living and market differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wichita for Head Chefs
Nearby areas with higher pay for Head Chefs include:
- Downtown Wichita: $25.50 per hour
- Eastborough: $26.00 per hour
Working in these areas may provide better compensation due to the type of establishments and clientele found there.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Wichita?
Several factors play a role in determining how much a Head Chef can earn in Wichita:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced chefs with skills in diverse cuisines, team leadership, and advanced cooking techniques generally command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, and upscale catering companies usually offer better pay compared to casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Education and Certifications: Professional culinary education and certifications, such as those from the American Culinary Federation, can boost earning potential by demonstrating expertise.
- Reputation and Network: Chefs with a strong reputation or professional network can secure higher-paying positions or consulting opportunities.
- Location and Demand: Salaries vary between neighborhoods and cities based on demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Head Chef in Wichita, KS
Becoming a Head Chef in Wichita involves a combination of formal education, practical experience, and certifications:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs such as the WSU Tech Culinary Arts Program offer an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts with extensive hands-on kitchen experience. The Redler Institute of Culinary Arts at Butler Community College also provides comprehensive culinary training ranging from certificates to associate degrees.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification, provided by the Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association, is often required to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Certifications from the American Culinary Federation, such as Certified Sous Chef (CSC) or Certified Executive Chef (CEC), validate skills and improve career prospects.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Entry-level roles such as line cook or sous chef provide essential experience toward becoming a Head Chef.
- Develop Leadership and Management Skills: Managing kitchen staff, inventory, and budgeting is critical for progressing to Head Chef roles.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Wichita, KS
Some prominent employers in Wichita looking to hire skilled Head Chefs include:
- Georges French Bistro
- Hilton
- P.F. Chang's
- KFC
Establishments That Head Chefs in Wichita, KS Work At
Head Chefs typically work in a wide range of food service establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer the highest salaries due to the complexity of the menu and service expectations.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: Provide opportunities for larger-scale operations and higher pay.
- Catering Companies: Head Chefs here manage events and customized menus, which can influence compensation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Salaries may be more modest but provide opportunities for steady employment and skill development.
The type of establishment plays a key role in salary variations for Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wichita, KS for Head Chefs
If you're considering other career options related to culinary leadership, here are a few similar roles worth exploring:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions, all of which require leadership in culinary or management skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Wichita, KS
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Head Chefs to ensure fair employment practices and compliance.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive information on federal labor laws, wages, and employment statistics.
- The State of Kansas official website offers resources on state labor laws, workplace regulations, and employment assistance.