What Commercial Kitchen Equipment Technicians Earn in 2026
Commercial kitchen equipment technicians repair fryers, ovens, steamers, refrigeration, ice machines, dish machines and coffee equipment for restaurants, schools, hospitals and chains. Because the work is emergency-driven and skilled, pay is solid and overtime is common.
Typical pay ranges
Looking at postings on this board in October 2026: entry-level and helper roles start around $22-$26/hr. Experienced field techs commonly see $25-$40/hr (General Parts Group lists $25-$40 plus up to a $3,000 sign-on; Mr. Espresso lists $25-$40). Senior and specialty techs in high-cost metros reach $35-$45/hr (Tech24 and OTG list $35-$45). Salaried roles that combine foodservice and HVAC/R run $65,000-$95,000 a year.
What raises your pay
- Refrigeration skills and an EPA 608 card. Techs who can handle walk-ins, reach-ins and ice machines are worth more.
- Gas and electrical troubleshooting. Reading schematics and diagnosing controls separates good techs from parts-changers.
- Factory training and CFESA certification.
- On-call and overtime. Kitchens break on weekends; many companies pay premiums.
- A company van, phone and tools are standard at good employers and are worth thousands a year.
Pay data here is drawn from public postings and will change; always confirm with the employer. Browse current jobs.