Chef Salary in Birmingham, AL
Chefs in Birmingham, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $13.02 per hour, which translates to about $520.80 per week, $2,256.80 per month, and $27,081.60 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Birmingham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for culinary professionals in the region seeking career opportunities and advancement.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Birmingham, AL?
The salary of a Chef in Birmingham varies depending on experience level and skills. Here is a breakdown of expected earnings across different stages of a Chef's career:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Chefs in Birmingham Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role mainly involves kitchen and food preparation duties behind the scenes. Tips generally go to servers and front-of-house staff. However, some Chefs working in smaller or specialized establishments might receive occasional gratuities.
Chef Salary in Birmingham vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50 and an annual salary around $30,160.
Comparing this to Birmingham, AL, Chefs earn slightly less on average at $13.02 per hour and $27,081.60 per year, reflecting regional cost of living and market demand differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Birmingham for Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive pay rates for Chefs:
- Downtown Birmingham: $15.50 per hour
- Mountain Brook: $17.60 per hour
Chefs seeking higher salaries might consider opportunities in Mountain Brook, where pay rates are above Birmingham's average.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Birmingham?
Several factors influence the salary potential of a Chef in Birmingham:
- Experience and Expertise: Seasoned Chefs with years of culinary experience tend to earn higher pay.
- Specialized Skills: Skills in gourmet cooking, pastry arts, or specialized cuisines can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working in upscale restaurants or hotels often receive better compensation than those in casual eateries or fast food.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials like ServSafe Certification or Certified Culinarian credentials boost salary opportunities.
- Management Roles: Chefs who ascend to supervisory or executive positions typically earn significantly more.
How To Become a Chef in Birmingham
To pursue a career as a Chef in Birmingham, the following steps are recommended:
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Institutions like Jefferson State Community College Culinary and Hospitality Institute and Lawson State Community College Culinary Arts Program provide practical culinary training and credentials.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as ServSafe are essential for working safely in professional kitchens.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: Consider earning the Certified Culinarian (CC) certification to demonstrate competency.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Work in kitchens to develop skills, starting as a line cook or apprentice and progressing upwards.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Birmingham
Major employers seeking talented Chefs in Birmingham include:
- Perry's Steakhouse and Grille
- North Italia
- Marriott International
Establishments That Chefs in Birmingham Work At
Chefs in Birmingham work across a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work but may have lower pay compared to upscale venues.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: Usually offer higher salaries reflecting skill and experience requirements.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments can have structured benefits and pay scales.
- Catering and Event Companies: May offer diverse opportunities with potential for higher earnings based on events.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in salary, with more prestigious or larger operations typically paying better.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Birmingham for Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to Chefs, consider exploring roles such as Head Chef, Executive Chef, or Restaurant Manager for further growth and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Birmingham
Chefs working in Birmingham should be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations that govern employment rights and responsibilities.
- Refer to the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive labor regulations.
- Consult the State website for Alabama for state-specific laws and employment resources.