Chef Salary in Amarillo, TX
Chefs in Amarillo, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $16.31 per hour, which translates to about $652.40 per week, $2,827.07 per month, and $33,924.80 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Amarillo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth in the culinary sector throughout the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Amarillo, TX?
The salary of a Chef in Amarillo can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.99 | $439.60 | $1,900.53 | $22,795.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.31 | $652.40 | $2,827.07 | $33,924.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.20 | $968.00 | $4,193.33 | $50,336.00 |
Do Chefs in Amarillo Earn Tips?
Chefs occasionally earn tips, especially in smaller or specialized restaurants where tip-sharing might occur. They can potentially earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, although this varies widely depending on the establishment and its tipping policies.
Chef Salary in Amarillo vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $16.31 per hour, translating to about $33,924.80 per year.
When compared to the national average, Chefs in Amarillo earn approximately the same, reflecting the city's competitive wages within the culinary industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Amarillo for Chefs
Nearby areas around Amarillo offer slightly different pay rates for Chefs:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Southwest Amarillo: $18.00 per hour
Chefs working in Southwest Amarillo tend to receive the highest pay, followed closely by those in the Downtown district, both exceeding the citywide average.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Amarillo?
Many factors can influence the salary of a Chef in Amarillo:
- Experience and Expertise: Chefs with extensive culinary skills, diverse cooking styles, and years of experience typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts usually offers better pay compared to casual dining or fast food.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in certain cuisines or advanced culinary techniques can boost salary potential.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary degrees or certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can enhance earning power.
- Geographic Location: Certain areas within Amarillo or nearby neighborhoods might pay more due to demand or cost of living differences.
How To Become a Chef in Amarillo
Becoming a successful Chef in Amarillo involves several key steps and educational opportunities:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Amarillo College Culinary Arts Program provides comprehensive hands-on training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning.
- Consider Hospitality Management Education: Nearby Texas Tech University offers Hospitality and Retail Management courses that complement culinary skills with business and management training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often necessary as it demonstrates knowledge of food safety practices required by employers.
- Pursue Professional Certifications: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential by the American Culinary Federation is a distinguished certification recognizing culinary expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in various kitchen roles builds valuable skills and prepares aspiring Chefs for leadership positions.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Amarillo
Several notable establishments in Amarillo actively seek skilled Chefs to join their culinary teams:
- The Big Texan Steak Ranch
- Crush Wine Bar & Grill
- OHMS Cafe & Bar
Establishments That Chefs in Amarillo Work At
Chefs in Amarillo work in a variety of culinary settings, which can influence their salaries:
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These typically offer higher salaries due to demanding cuisine and clientele expectations.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Eateries: These establishments usually provide moderate pay but greater job availability.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: Employing Chefs for large-scale kitchen operations with competitive salaries and benefits.
- Catering Services and Private Clubs: These can offer lucrative positions for experienced Chefs focusing on specialized menus.
The type of establishment often dictates the complexity of the menu and working conditions, both affecting compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Amarillo for Chefs
If you're interested in careers related to being a Chef, consider the following similar roles with comparable skill sets and opportunities:
These include Executive Chef, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, each sharing facets of culinary expertise and management responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Amarillo
Chefs in Amarillo should be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and understand their rights and obligations.
- Texas state labor laws and regulations can be found on the official Texas government website.
- For broader insight into federal employment laws and labor statistics, visit the U.S. Department of Labor at dol.gov.