Pay Scale of a Culinary Arts Chef

In recent years, people have become more conscious of the food they eat. As a result, there has been increased interest in cooking and the work of a chef. Professional chefs face demanding schedules and work in what is often a chaotic environment. Yet, they also get to ensure that restaurant and hotel guests can enjoy the delicious food they prepare.

Job Description

According to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, chefs and head cooks direct the preparation of food in commercial kitchens. Job responsibilities include:

  • Menu creation
  • Recipe development
  • Hiring and managing kitchen staff
  • Liaising with other restaurant managers
  • Ordering supplies
  • Managing kitchen processes, including hygiene and safety standards.


There are several different ways a chef can learn how to cook professionally as well as manage a kitchen. These include:

  • On-the-job training: Many chefs learn their craft by working in commercial and restaurant kitchens. They may start out as a dishwasher or a prep cook, and will eventually learn skills needed to handle more advanced cooking techniques.
  • Vocational programs: Some chefs begin studying culinary arts either through a high school vocational program or a post-secondary trade school.
  • Academic programs: Some two- and four-year colleges and universities offer associate and bachelor's degree programs in culinary arts and restaurant management. The latter might be a good option for aspiring chefs who would also like to eventually own their own restaurant.
  • Formal apprenticeships: Formal apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom learning.

As of May 2017, the median annual salary for chefs and head cooks was $45,950. This means that 50 percent of chefs made more than this and the other half made less. The highest salaries are earned by those working in high-end restaurants, hotels and resorts.


Chefs typically work in commercial kitchens, usually in restaurants but sometimes in other food-service environments, such as catering or banquet hall kitchens. Conditions can be hot and loud, particularly in large restaurants. Chefs typically work full-time and may need to work weekend and evening hours. In addition, because chefs are often responsible for ordering ingredients and supplies, they may also have to be at work early so they can supervise deliveries.

Years of Experience

A survey by showed that head chefs can expect to earn more as they gain increasing job experience. The following numbers show the correlation between years on the job and compensation:

  • 0-5 years: $35,000 
  • 5-10 years: $39,000 
  • 10-20 years: $42,000 
  • 20+ years: $43,000.

Job Growth Trend

According to the BLS, employment for chefs and head cooks is expected to grow by 10 percent between 2016 and 2026. This faster-than-average job growth is attributed to an increased public interest in high-quality food made from healthy ingredients. In addition, the demanding nature of this job results in high turnover, which means restaurants and hotels often need to hire replacements.