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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.

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.

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 ...

Pitmaster information

See Kansas salary details

$11

$15

$20

How much do pitmaster jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 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.

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.

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.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Pitmaster can potentially earn $4,000 a week through high-volume catering, private events, or owning a successful barbecue business, especially with experience and strong customer demand. Such income typically requires entrepreneurial skills, excellent cooking ability, and a good reputation, rather than formal education. Most high-earning food service roles depend on skill, reputation, and business acumen rather than degrees.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

A Pitmaster can potentially earn $2000 a week by offering catering services, selling smoked meats online, or providing private event cooking. Building a strong reputation, developing skills in smoking and grilling, and leveraging social media or online marketplaces can help increase income. Consistent quality and customer service are essential for sustained earnings in this field.

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.

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.

How much do pitmasters get paid?

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 in high-end or popular barbecue 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% 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 3 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.