Chef Salary in Buckeye, AZ
Chefs in Buckeye, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Buckeye is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary field locally.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Buckeye, AZ?
The salary of a Chef in Buckeye can vary based on experience level and establishment type. Here's an overview of typical earnings:
| 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 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Chefs in Buckeye Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as part of their regular compensation since their work is typically behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation and kitchen management. Their income mostly comes from their salary or hourly wage.
Chef Salary in Buckeye, AZ vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn on average about $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Chefs in Buckeye earn slightly below the national average with an hourly rate of $13.90 and an annual salary of about $28,912. This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Buckeye for Chefs
Nearby regions offer varying salary prospects for Chefs:
- Verrado: $15.50 per hour
- Sundance: $17.60 per hour
Sundance offers a notably higher average hourly pay for Chefs, likely due to different establishment types or local economic factors.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Buckeye?
Several factors can impact how much a Chef earns in Buckeye:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Chefs with specialized culinary skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working in upscale or fine dining restaurants often earn more than those in casual or fast food settings.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certifications or degrees can enhance earning potential.
- Kitchen Role and Responsibility: Chefs with leadership roles such as Executive Chef or Sous Chef typically earn more.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Chefs working overnight or holiday shifts may receive additional compensation.
How To Become a Chef in Buckeye
Becoming a successful Chef in Buckeye involves a combination of education, certification, and practical experience:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs like the Estrella Mountain Community College Culinary Arts Program provide hands-on training and foundational knowledge important for aspiring Chefs.
- Pursue Advanced Training: Nearby institutions such as the Arizona Culinary Institute in Scottsdale offer intensive training focusing on cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are nationally recognized and crucial for employment in food service.
- Earn Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) Credential from the American Culinary Federation validates culinary skills and professionalism, enhancing job prospects.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start in roles such as line cook or prep cook to build experience and work your way up.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Buckeye
Several local and national employers actively hire Chefs in Buckeye, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Chefs in Buckeye Work At
Chefs in Buckeye typically work across a variety of establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: These often have moderate salaries but provide steady employment and growth potential.
- Fast Casual Chains: Popular chains may offer competitive pay and benefits but often have standardized menus and workflows.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer higher salaries due to the expertise and creativity required, along with more demanding schedules.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues frequently provide higher wages and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment can significantly influence the salary and job responsibilities of a Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Buckeye for Chef
If you're interested in exploring careers similar to Chef, consider these related roles:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share culinary and management skills within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Buckeye
Chefs should be informed about labor regulations and tax requirements in Arizona to ensure compliance and understand their rights:
- Visit the official Arizona government website for details on labor laws, wage standards, and employment resources.
- For federal labor laws and wage information, check the U.S. Department of Labor website.