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Pitmaster Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Cook

De Soto, KS

$13.50 - $18/hr

In 2010, Smokey began working on a Barbecue concept for PB&J and together they introduced their new concept "Burnt End BBQ" with Smokey taking the lead as the Executive Pitmaster and General Manager.

Dishwasher / Prep

De Soto, KS

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

In 2010, Smokey began working on a Barbecue concept for PB&J and together they introduced their new concept "Burnt End BBQ" with Smokey taking the lead as the Executive Pitmaster and General Manager.

In 2010, Smokey began working on a Barbecue concept for PB&J and together they introduced their new concept "Burnt End BBQ" with Smokey taking the lead as the Executive Pitmaster and General Manager.

Sous Chef

Overland Park, KS · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

Pitmaster Leadership - Prepare and cook barbecue meats daily according to Q39 recipes, portioning, and cooking standards, ensuring consistent food quality. * Team Management - Train, develop, and ...

In 2010, Smokey began working on a Barbecue concept for PB&J and together they introduced their new concept "Burnt End BBQ" with Smokey taking the lead as the Executive Pitmaster and General Manager.

In 2010, Smokey began working on a Barbecue concept for PB&J and together they introduced their new concept "Burnt End BBQ" with Smokey taking the lead as the Executive Pitmaster and General Manager.

Pitmaster information

See Kansas salary details

$11

$15

$20

How much do pitmaster jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for pitmaster in Kansas is $15.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $16.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Pitmaster vs Barbecue Cook?

AspectPitmasterBarbecue Cook
CredentialsExperience in smoking and grilling, sometimes certifications in BBQ techniquesBasic cooking skills, some may have certifications in culinary arts or BBQ
Work EnvironmentProfessional BBQ restaurants, competitions, catering eventsRestaurants, food trucks, catering, or home cooking
Industry UsageHigh-end BBQ joints, competitions, specialty BBQ brandsCasual dining, restaurants, food festivals

While both Pitmasters and Barbecue Cooks work with smoked and grilled meats, Pitmasters typically have more experience, specialized skills, and often participate in competitions or work in high-end BBQ establishments. Barbecue Cooks may have similar skills but usually work in more casual settings. The roles overlap, but Pitmasters are generally regarded as experts in the craft.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A pitmaster can potentially earn $10,000 a month through high-volume catering, private events, or owning a successful barbecue restaurant, especially with strong culinary skills and business management. Achieving this income typically requires experience, reputation, and effective marketing, rather than formal education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pitmaster, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pitmaster, you need deep knowledge of barbecue techniques, meat selection, seasoning, and food safety, often gained through hands-on experience or culinary courses. Familiarity with smokers, grills, temperature probes, and possibly certifications in food handling are typical technical requirements. Attention to detail, patience, and strong time management are crucial soft skills that set top Pitmasters apart. These abilities are essential for consistently producing high-quality barbecue, ensuring food safety, and maintaining customer satisfaction in a competitive culinary field.

How do I become a pitmaster?

To become a pitmaster, gain experience by working in barbecue restaurants or smokehouses, learn about different types of wood, meats, and cooking techniques, and develop your skills in controlling temperature and smoke. Many pitmasters also pursue certifications or attend specialized barbecue classes to improve their knowledge and credibility.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2,000 a day often include specialized roles such as experienced pitmasters in high-end catering or private events, especially those with a strong reputation and unique skills. Other professions like certain consulting, executive positions, or freelance specialists in fields like law, finance, or technology may also earn this level of daily income, often requiring advanced certifications, extensive experience, or a strong client base.

What are pitmasters?

Pitmasters are skilled professionals who specialize in the art of barbecue, particularly in preparing, cooking, and managing smoked meats using various types of smokers or barbecue pits. They possess deep knowledge of different wood types, smoking temperatures, and techniques to achieve the perfect flavor and tenderness. Pitmasters often oversee the entire barbecue process, from seasoning meats to controlling the fire, ensuring high-quality results for restaurants, competitions, or events. Their expertise is critical in producing authentic, flavorful barbecue dishes that are popular in many regions, especially in the Southern United States.

How much do BBQ pitmasters make?

BBQ pitmasters typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Skilled pitmasters with certifications and a strong reputation can earn higher salaries, especially if they own or operate their own barbecue businesses or compete professionally.

What are some common challenges a Pitmaster faces during a typical shift?

Pitmasters often manage multiple smokers or grills simultaneously, requiring strong multitasking and time management skills to ensure all meats are cooked perfectly. They must also monitor temperature and smoke levels closely, adapting quickly to changes in weather or equipment performance. Additionally, Pitmasters frequently collaborate with kitchen staff to coordinate timing for service, which can be challenging during busy periods. Maintaining consistency in flavor and quality across large batches is another key challenge that requires deep experience and attention to detail.
What are popular job titles related to Pitmaster jobs in Kansas? For Pitmaster jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pitmaster jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Pitmaster jobs in Kansas are:
Infographic showing various Pitmaster job openings in Kansas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, and 41% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,849 per year, or $15.3 per hour.
Cook

$13.50 - $18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description


Burnt End BBQ and Catering is Kansas City's premiere BBQ joint, serving thick and juicy large portions of beef, steak, pork and poultry. Our team is at the heart of what we do, and we want you to join it!

In 2010, Smokey began working on a Barbecue concept for PB&J and together they introduced their new concept "Burnt End BBQ" with Smokey taking the lead as the Executive Pitmaster and General Manager. Smokey also competes in many cooking and BBQ competitions. He is the only chef to have won Three Grand Champion titles in Chicago at the Food Arts Magazine/ Share Our Strength National Championships — taking home first place in 2006, 2012, and 2015. Smokey has also taken first place at the American Royal Barbecue Championships with his Sweet Chipotle Glaze BBQ Sauce in 2012 and his Sweet Honey Glaze Sauce in 2015. In January 2018, Smokey and the Burnt End BBQ were featured on The Food Network's new series "The Grill Dads" and in June 2019, Burnt End BBQ's Denver location was on "Burgers, Brews & Que".

Have a better quality of life with No late nights!

NOW HIRING / IMMEDIATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR
Full Time & Part Time

  • Line Cooks

We can offer you:

  • Employee discount
  • Flexible schedule
  • Insurance based on eligibility
  • Start today. Your future Begins here!
Burnt End BBQ is a growing restaurant concept that has growth opportunities for restaurant management / front of house managers in a full service, casual dining restaurnat environment. We offer great restaurant culinary careers for line cooks (concinero / cocinera) who have back of house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment.