How Much is the Average Chef Salary?

It has been said too many times that chef salary surmounts to a whopping amount of cash. This is also the reason why some people decide to venture into this profession. Truth be told, the promise of big salary should not be the sole reason for wanting to become a chef. It should also be about interest and passion. Aside from that, if you are aspiring to become a chef, it is best to set your expectations right when it comes to potential salary. That way, your mind would not be clouded by incorrect assumptions and you would not end up disappointed in the future.

Factors Affecting Chef Salary

It is true that some chefs get big amount of cash. However, they also had to go through several steps in their career to be able to reach an impressive salary package. Here are some of the aspects which could affect the amount of chef salary:

Years of Experience—Those who have recently graduated may not be immediately given a head chef position. Some start out as a chef assistant or kitchen chef. The number of years that it takes until the chief position is achieved may depend on one’s ability and expertise. Of course, the position for novice chef would also entail basic salary while chief positions already involve bonuses and a few extras aside from the main salary.

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Employer—There are various types of establishments which hire chefs. Higher salaries are paid by the most prestigious fine-dining restaurants and premiere hotels. Aside from mid-scale restaurants and catering businesses, there are also families and individuals which employ chefs within their household.

Number of Supervised Employees—Some chefs have several assistants under their wings. More people to supervise mean more responsibilities. Hence, the number of employees that have to be managed will also make the chef salary escalate.

Amount of Chef Salary

How much do chefs get? In the United States, chef salary is somewhere between $23,000 up to $50,000. This annual average is applicable for novice to sous chef position. For higher chef positions like chief, executive and others, the salary range from $33,000 up to $84,000. The salary will also depend on the degree of education, city of employment and other terms and conditions from the employer.

Aside from the main computation for salary, there are also other bonuses which chefs can enjoy. Some companies give their chefs extra pay for overtime and additional work. There are also others which add more compensation to the salary, depending on the feedback from customers and satisfaction of diners. Usually, this is computed according to the increase in profit of the restaurant or hotel. There are also other factors which could make the chef salary grow even more. Among which include commission and profit sharing.

The chef salary may not be superbly high right from the start but just like any other job, it is possible to get impressive salary package if there is determination and hard work. Being a chef is not just rewarding because of the pay but also because of the pleasure in making other people happy by serving sumptuous meals.