Kitchen Porter Salary in the US
A Kitchen Porter plays a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness and efficiency of a kitchen. In the United States, the average annual salary for a Kitchen Porter ranges from $33,037 to $36,885.Â
This figure is based on our own methodology, aggregating data from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive overview.
How Much Does a Kitchen Porter Make?
As mentioned, the average annual salary for a Kitchen Porter in the United States ranges from $33,037 to $36,885. This figure is derived from various reputable sources to ensure accuracy.
How Much Do Kitchen Porters Earn Per Month?
Breaking it down monthly, a Kitchen Porter in the United States earns approximately $2,753 to $3,074. This estimate is calculated by dividing the annual salary by 12 months.
How Much Does a Kitchen Porter Make Weekly?
On a weekly basis, a Kitchen Porter in the United States makes about $635 to $709. This figure is obtained by dividing the annual salary by 52 weeks.
How Much Does a Kitchen Porter Earn Hourly?
Assuming a standard 40-hour workweek, the hourly wage for a Kitchen Porter in the United States is approximately $15.88 to $17.73. This rate is calculated by dividing the weekly earnings by 40 hours.
Factors Affecting a Kitchen Porter’s Pay
Several factors can influence the salary of a Kitchen Porter:

Experience
Individuals with more experience may command higher wages due to their familiarity with kitchen operations and efficiency.
Location
Salaries can vary significantly based on geographic location. For instance, Kitchen Porters in major cities like New York or Los Angeles may earn more due to the higher cost of living.
Establishment Type
Working in high-end restaurants, hotels or prestigious institutions may offer higher pay compared to smaller establishments.
Shift Patterns
Night shifts or weekend work might come with additional pay or bonuses, reflecting the unsociable hours.
Benefits and Perks That Kitchen Porters Receive
Kitchen Porters often receive various benefits, which can include:
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Many employers offer vacation days and sick leave.
- Meal provisions: Complimentary meals during shifts are common in the hospitality industry.
- Uniforms: Provision of uniforms or allowances for work attire.
- Training opportunities: Access to training programs that can lead to career advancement within the culinary field.
Salary Negotiation Tips for Kitchen Porters
If you’re looking to negotiate a better salary as a Kitchen Porter:
- Highlight experience: Employers value experience. If you have previous experience in a busy kitchen, leverage that during negotiations.
- Showcase reliability: Being punctual, dependable and hardworking can set you apart and justify higher pay.
- Consider certifications: Obtaining food safety or sanitation certifications can demonstrate your commitment to the role and may help in negotiations.
- Seek higher-paying establishments: High-end restaurants, hotels and catering businesses may offer better pay and benefits.
Kitchen Porter Salary FAQs
While rare, some Kitchen Porters may receive a share of tips in establishments that pool gratuities among staff.
Yes, many employers offer overtime pay for hours worked beyond 40 per week, typically at 1.5 times the regular hourly rate.
Absolutely. Many Kitchen Porters move up to roles like Line Cook, Prep Cook or even Sous Chef with experience and training.
Kitchen Porters primarily work in restaurants, hotels, catering services, hospitals and school cafeterias.
Gaining experience, working in high-end establishments, obtaining relevant certifications and demonstrating reliability can all contribute to higher earnings.