How much does a Kitchen Team Member make?
A Kitchen Team Member has an important role in any restaurant. They help make meals for customers. The pay for this job varies, but it is usually in a certain range. The average yearly salary for a Kitchen Team Member is around $33,045. This means that, on average, Kitchen Team Members earn about $33,045 per year.
The salary for Kitchen Team Members can change based on many factors. These include the type of restaurant, the location, and how much experience the team member has. The lowest-paid Kitchen Team Members earn around $21,000 per year. The highest-paid ones can earn up to $47,000 per year. This shows that there is room to grow and earn more with experience and the right opportunities.
What are the highest paying cities for a Kitchen Team Member?

-
Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $50,886
In Buffalo, a kitchen role means working with local establishments like the Buffalo Riverworks. These settings provide a vibrant food scene with lots of opportunities to grow and learn. The community-focused environment makes it a great place for team members to thrive.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Buffalo, NY
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $44,378
Seattle offers a dynamic culinary scene with famous companies like Pike Place Market. Working in a kitchen here means engaging with diverse flavors and techniques. It's an exciting place for team members to enhance their skills and connect with a creative community.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $42,296
In Salinas, the agricultural influence shapes the local food culture. Kitchens here often prepare fresh, local produce. Working in this city means being part of a supportive team that values quality and sustainability in food preparation.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Salinas, CA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $41,450
Los Angeles has a diverse and bustling food market. Kitchen roles often involve working in trendy restaurants and eateries. It's a vibrant city where team members can experiment with new dishes and styles, catering to a wide range of tastes.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $40,761
San Francisco is known for its eclectic food scene. Working in a kitchen here means experiencing a mix of flavors and techniques. The city's reputation for innovation makes it a stimulating place for team members to develop their culinary talents.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $40,622
Vallejo offers a charming and relaxed environment. Kitchens here often focus on quality and community. Working in this city means being part of a close-knit team that values fresh ingredients and personal connections with customers.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Vallejo, CA
-
Bend, OR
Average Salary: $40,305
Bend has a growing culinary scene with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Kitchen roles here involve working with seasonal produce and creating dishes that reflect the region's natural beauty. It's a great place for team members who enjoy a laid-back, yet creative atmosphere.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Bend, OR
-
Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $40,289
Santa Maria is known for its agricultural richness. Kitchens here often prepare dishes that highlight local produce. Working in this city means being part of a community-focused environment where quality and tradition are key.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $40,233
San Jose has a diverse and growing food scene. Kitchens here often experiment with new flavors and techniques. It's an exciting city for team members to develop their skills and explore a variety of culinary styles.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $40,054
Fresno offers a unique food culture influenced by its agricultural roots. Kitchens here often prepare dishes that reflect the local produce. Working in this city means being part of a vibrant, community-oriented environment focused on quality and freshness.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Fresno, CA
What are the best companies a Kitchen Team Member can work for?

-
Zeeks Pizza
Average Salary: $56,252
Zeeks Pizza offers exciting opportunities for Kitchen Team Members across various locations. This company is known for its vibrant work environment and dedication to quality. They are present in multiple cities including Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco.
-
Homestate
Average Salary: $49,654
Homestate provides fulfilling Kitchen Team Member roles with competitive pay. They focus on growth and training for their staff. Homestate operates in cities such as Portland, Seattle, and Denver.
-
Illegal Pete's
Average Salary: $45,815
At Illegal Pete's, Kitchen Team Members enjoy a dynamic work setting. They offer diverse roles with room for advancement. Their locations include Austin, Houston, and Dallas.
-
Northstar Cafe
Average Salary: $45,292
Northstar Cafe values its Kitchen Team Members, providing a great working environment. They offer many opportunities for professional development. This company operates in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Chicago.
-
Third & Hollywood
Average Salary: $45,000
Third & Hollywood offers rewarding roles for Kitchen Team Members. They emphasize teamwork and a positive atmosphere. The company is located in Los Angeles and San Francisco.
-
Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai
Average Salary: $42,792
Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai provides a unique experience for Kitchen Team Members. They offer roles with a focus on traditional Japanese cuisine. Locations include New York, Boston, and Philadelphia.
-
Panda Restaurant Group
Average Salary: $41,707
Panda Restaurant Group offers competitive salaries for Kitchen Team Members. They provide a supportive environment with opportunities for growth. Their locations span Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco.
-
Habit Burger Grill - Santa Clara
Average Salary: $41,500
Habit Burger Grill in Santa Clara offers Kitchen Team Member positions with a focus on community and quality. They provide a welcoming work environment. Santa Clara is the primary location.
-
Habit Burger Grill - Castro Valley
Average Salary: $41,128
Habit Burger Grill in Castro Valley provides Kitchen Team Member roles with a dedication to excellence. They emphasize a friendly and inclusive workplace. Castro Valley is the main location.
-
Habit Burger Grill - Santa Ana
Average Salary: $41,119
Habit Burger Grill in Santa Ana offers Kitchen Team Member positions with a focus on teamwork and quality. They provide a supportive and engaging work environment. Santa Ana is the primary location.
How to earn more as a Kitchen Team Member?
A Kitchen Team Member can find many ways to increase earnings. Small changes in attitude and actions can lead to bigger paychecks. Here are some practical steps to consider.
First, always strive to be reliable and punctual. Being on time for every shift shows commitment. Arriving early can also help finish tasks sooner. Second, show eagerness to learn new skills. This may involve mastering a new station or learning special techniques. A well-rounded skill set can lead to higher pay and more responsibility. Third, maintaining a clean workspace can lead to a safer and more efficient kitchen. Cleanliness can help avoid accidents and improve team morale. Fourth, communicate well with team members. Clear communication can speed up service and reduce mistakes. Lastly, take on extra duties when possible. This might involve working during busy periods or helping with special events. Extra work can lead to tips and overtime pay.
By focusing on these factors, Kitchen Team Members can enhance their earnings. Taking initiative and showing dedication can open more opportunities for growth and pay raises.
- Be reliable and punctual
- Learn new skills
- Keep the workspace clean
- Communicate well with team members
- Take on extra duties



