Chef Salary in Bloomington, IN
Chefs in Bloomington, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $23.45 per hour, which translates to about $938.00 per week, $4,064.67 per month, and $48,776.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Bloomington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for professionals aspiring to join or advance in this dynamic culinary field.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Bloomington, IN?
The income of a Chef in Bloomington reflects various levels of expertise, from entry-level to top earners, and here is a breakdown of the typical salary range.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.38 | $815.20 | $3,525.87 | $42,310.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.45 | $938.00 | $4,064.67 | $48,776.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.35 | $1,094.00 | $4,711.33 | $56,888.00 |
Do Chefs in Bloomington Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as a primary part of their income since their role is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen, rather than direct customer service. Their earnings rely mainly on their salary or hourly wage.
Chef Salary in Bloomington vs. National Average
On a national scale, Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $25.00, which amounts to roughly $52,000 per year.
Compared to this, Chefs in Bloomington earn slightly less on average, making $23.45 per hour and approximately $48,776 annually. This variance can be impacted by local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bloomington for Chefs
Nearby locations offer varying salary prospects for Chefs:
- Downtown: $24.50 per hour
- East Side: $25.00 per hour
Chefs working in East Side can expect to earn salaries competitive with the national average, making it an attractive area for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Bloomington?
Several factors significantly impact the salary potential for Chefs in Bloomington:
- Experience Level: More years working as a Chef, especially in leadership roles, lead to higher earnings.
- Skillset and Specialization: Expertise in certain cuisines, pastry arts, or menu development can boost income.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels offers higher pay compared to casual dining.
- Education and Certifications: Holding culinary degrees or certifications can increase salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Roles: Executive Chefs or Head Chefs managing teams earn more than line cooks or kitchen assistants.
How To Become a Chef in Bloomington
Starting your journey as a Chef in Bloomington involves both education and practical experience:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Institutions like Ivy Tech Community College offer a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program providing hands-on training and foundational knowledge.
- Explore Food Studies: Indiana University provides a Food Studies Program to gain broader insight into culinary culture, economics, and sustainability.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning a ServSafe Certification is essential for food safety compliance, while the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification from the American Culinary Federation is an advanced credential for experienced chefs.
- Gain Work Experience: Begin with entry-level kitchen roles, gaining skills and advancing towards management or executive positions.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Bloomington
Several employers in Bloomington actively seek talented Chefs, including:
- FARMbloomington
- Upland Brewing Company
- The Uptown Cafe
Establishments That Chefs in Bloomington Work At
Chefs work across a wide range of establishments, including casual dining, fast-casual restaurants, fine dining, hotels, and catering companies.
The salary can vary significantly depending on the venue:
- Fine Dining and Hotels: Tend to offer higher wages and benefits due to the level of skill and service expected.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Often provide moderate salaries but more opportunities for entry-level chefs.
- Catering and Event Venues: Can provide variable pay depending on contracts and event size.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bloomington for Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to Chef roles, you might consider these similar positions with comparable skills and salary potentials.
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, positions that showcase leadership and culinary mastery within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Bloomington
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is vital for Chefs to protect their rights and comply with regulations.
- For federal labor laws, including wage standards and workplace protections, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Indiana-specific employment laws, resources, and updates, consult the official State of Indiana website.