How much does a Kitchen Team Member make?
A Kitchen Team Member plays a vital role in the food service industry. This position involves preparing meals, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and assisting with various kitchen tasks. The average yearly salary for a Kitchen Team Member is around $32,686. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific restaurant or establishment.
The salary range for Kitchen Team Members can differ significantly. At the lower end, some may earn as little as $21,000 per year. As experience and skills grow, salaries can increase. For example, those with more than a few years of experience might see their earnings rise to around $48,000 annually. This range shows that with dedication and growth, Kitchen Team Members have the potential to earn more over time.
What are the highest paying cities for a Kitchen Team Member?

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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $48,635
In Buffalo, a role in the culinary world offers a chance to work in a vibrant food scene. With establishments like Buffalo Beer & Barrel and The Left Bank, the city's diverse dining options provide ample opportunities for growth. The local culture values hearty, comforting meals, making it a rewarding place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $42,581
Seattle's culinary landscape is rich and varied, offering a dynamic environment for kitchen professionals. Working in the city, one can find themselves in renowned places like Canlis and The Pink Door. The city's emphasis on fresh, sustainable ingredients creates a unique and fulfilling work experience.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $42,286
Salinas boasts a strong agricultural base, which translates into a thriving food industry. Working in the kitchens here, one can expect to be part of a community that values fresh, local produce. The city's growing culinary scene offers opportunities in both traditional and innovative settings.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $40,155
San Francisco's diverse culinary scene is a melting pot of cultures and flavors. Working in the city's kitchens, one can expect to be part of a vibrant, innovative environment. The city's focus on sustainability and farm-to-table dining provides a unique and rewarding experience for kitchen professionals.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $39,505
Bend offers a laid-back, yet dynamic culinary environment. The city's focus on fresh, local ingredients provides a rewarding experience for kitchen staff. Working in places like The Old Spaghetti Factory and other local favorites, one can enjoy a supportive community and a focus on quality.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $39,303
Los Angeles is a culinary hub, offering a diverse range of opportunities for kitchen professionals. The city's vibrant food scene includes everything from trendy restaurants to classic diners. Working in LA provides a chance to be part of a fast-paced, innovative environment.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $38,819
Santa Rosa offers a charming, community-focused environment for kitchen staff. The city's culinary scene is centered around quality and local ingredients. Working in places like The Mustard Seed and other local favorites, one can enjoy a supportive and rewarding work experience.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $38,769
Stockton provides a welcoming and supportive environment for kitchen professionals. The city's culinary scene is diverse, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Working in Stockton offers a chance to be part of a close-knit community and a rewarding work experience.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $38,761
San Jose's culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a dynamic environment for kitchen staff. The city's focus on innovation and quality provides a rewarding experience. Working in places like The Plumed Horse and other local favorites, one can enjoy a supportive and exciting work environment.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $38,703
Vallejo offers a unique and rewarding environment for kitchen professionals. The city's culinary scene is diverse, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Working in Vallejo provides a chance to be part of a supportive community and a rewarding work experience.
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What are the best companies a Kitchen Team Member can work for?

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Zeeks Pizza
Average Salary: $54,071
Zeeks Pizza offers exciting opportunities for Kitchen Team Members. They operate in various locations, providing a dynamic work environment. Their kitchens are fast-paced, and they value teamwork and efficiency.
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Homestate
Average Salary: $48,913
Homestate is known for its welcoming atmosphere and supportive team. Kitchen Team Members here enjoy a collaborative environment with opportunities for growth. They operate in multiple locations, offering diverse experiences.
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Din Tai Fung
Average Salary: $45,322
Din Tai Fung provides a unique dining experience with a focus on quality and tradition. Kitchen Team Members here learn from experienced chefs. They operate in several locations, each offering a distinct culinary experience.
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Northstar Cafe
Average Salary: $45,267
Northstar Cafe values creativity and innovation in its kitchen. Kitchen Team Members here work in a vibrant setting with a focus on fresh ingredients. They operate in various locations, each with its own charm.
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Third & Hollywood
Average Salary: $45,000
Third & Hollywood offers a dynamic kitchen environment where team members can thrive. They operate in multiple locations, providing a variety of experiences. Their team values hard work and dedication.
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Panda Restaurant Group
Average Salary: $43,565
Panda Restaurant Group is known for its delicious food and supportive team. Kitchen Team Members here enjoy a fast-paced environment with opportunities for learning. They operate in several locations, each offering a unique dining experience.
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Habit Burger Grill - Irvine DT
Average Salary: $41,313
Habit Burger Grill in Irvine DT offers a friendly and energetic kitchen environment. Kitchen Team Members here work in a fast-paced setting with a focus on quality. They operate in multiple locations, each with its own vibe.
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Habit Burger Grill - Santa Clara
Average Salary: $41,275
Habit Burger Grill in Santa Clara provides a welcoming atmosphere for Kitchen Team Members. They operate in a fast-paced environment with a focus on teamwork. Their locations offer a variety of dining experiences.
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Habit Burger Grill - Castro Valley
Average Salary: $40,783
Habit Burger Grill in Castro Valley offers a supportive and dynamic kitchen environment. Kitchen Team Members here work in a fast-paced setting with a focus on quality. They operate in multiple locations, each with its own charm.
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Habit Burger Grill - Santa Ana
Average Salary: $40,762
Habit Burger Grill in Santa Ana provides a vibrant kitchen environment for team members. They operate in a fast-paced setting with a focus on teamwork. Their locations offer a variety of dining experiences.
How to earn more as a Kitchen Team Member?
A Kitchen Team Member can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on key areas, one can enhance their skills and value in the workplace. This leads to better job opportunities and higher pay.
Here are five factors that can help a Kitchen Team Member earn more:
- Skill Development: Learning new skills can make a big difference. Mastering different cooking techniques or learning to manage kitchen operations efficiently can set a team member apart.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications in food safety or culinary arts can boost a team member's resume. These credentials show dedication and expertise, which employers value.
- Experience: Gaining experience in various roles within the kitchen can open up higher-paying positions. Working in different areas, such as prep cook, line cook, or sous chef, provides a well-rounded skill set.
- Networking: Building relationships with colleagues and industry professionals can lead to job opportunities. Attending culinary events or joining professional organizations can help a team member connect with others in the field.
- Performance: Consistently delivering high-quality work and taking on additional responsibilities can lead to promotions and raises. Being a reliable and hardworking team member is key to earning more.