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Pitmaster Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

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.

Cook

De Soto, KS · On-site

$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.

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.

Dishwasher / Prep

De Soto, KS · On-site

$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.

Sous Chef-OP

Overland Park, KS · On-site

$62 - $72/hr

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 ...

Sous Chef

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$44K - $59K/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 ...

Sous Chef

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$62 - $74/hr

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 ...

Pitmaster information

See Kansas salary details

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$15

$20

How much do pitmaster jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pitmaster?

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.

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 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.

How do you become a pitmaster?

To become a pitmaster, gain experience by working in barbecue restaurants or smoking meats at home, and develop skills in fire management, meat preparation, and flavoring. Many pitmasters also pursue certifications or attend barbecue competitions to refine their techniques and reputation.

How much do pitmasters get paid?

Pitmasters typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Skilled pitmasters with certifications and a strong reputation can earn higher salaries, especially in high-end or popular venues.

What are popular job titles related to Pitmaster jobs in Kansas?

For Pitmaster jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Pitmaster job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,849 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Take Out / To Go

Burnt End BBQ

De Soto, KS • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 28 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

  • Take Out / To Go Team Members

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. This restaurant  front of house job for Hosts or Hostesses will focus on guest seating or greeting or reception / reservations duties in which you will be expected to provide great customer service.