In The Kitchen information
See Tennessee salary details
$10.19 - $11.09
7% of jobs
$11.94 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$11.09 - $11.99
11% of jobs
$11.99 - $12.89
20% of jobs
The median wage is $13.08 / hr.
$12.89 - $13.79
20% of jobs
$14.49 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$13.79 - $14.69
12% of jobs
$14.69 - $15.59
10% of jobs
$15.59 - $16.49
9% of jobs
$16.49 - $17.39
4% of jobs
How much do in the kitchen jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for in the kitchen in Tennessee is $13.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.44 and $14.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Working 'In The Kitchen' in a restaurant refers to being part of the team responsible for preparing, cooking, and plating food for customers. Kitchen staff can include chefs, cooks, prep cooks, dishwashers, and other support roles. Their duties typically involve following recipes, maintaining cleanliness, ensuring food safety, and working efficiently to deliver meals on time. It is a fast-paced environment that requires good teamwork, time management, and attention to detail.
To thrive as a kitchen worker, you need a solid understanding of food safety, basic cooking techniques, and kitchen sanitation, often supported by a food handler’s permit or similar certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale systems, and inventory management tools is typical. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure efficient kitchen operations, food quality, and a safe dining environment.
In a professional kitchen, newcomers often encounter challenges such as maintaining speed without sacrificing quality, adapting to a fast-paced and high-pressure environment, and communicating effectively with colleagues during busy service periods. To overcome these hurdles, it's important to stay organized, ask questions when unsure, and observe experienced team members to pick up efficient techniques. Building strong communication skills and remaining adaptable will help you integrate smoothly into the kitchen team and thrive in your role.
In the kitchen, entry-level positions such as dishwashers or prep cooks often do not require prior experience. Employers typically provide on-the-job training, and having basic skills like time management and the ability to follow instructions can help you get started. Certifications like food safety training may be beneficial but are not always mandatory for initial roles.
In the kitchen, dishwashing is often considered one of the easiest jobs because it involves repetitive tasks, minimal decision-making, and requires basic skills. It typically does not require specialized training and can be suitable for entry-level workers. However, it may involve standing for long periods and working in a noisy environment.
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for In The Kitchen jobs?
Cities in Tennessee with the most In The Kitchen job openings: