Chef Salary in Cambridge, MA
Chefs in Cambridge, MA, earn approximately $27.25 per hour, which translates to about $1,090.00 per week, $4,723.33 per month, and $56,680.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Cambridge is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities for culinary professionals.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Cambridge, MA?
The salary of a Chef in Cambridge can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.73 | $909.20 | $3,941.87 | $47,198.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.25 | $1,090.00 | $4,723.33 | $56,680.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.67 | $1,306.80 | $5,645.80 | $67,753.60 |
Do Chefs in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Chefs occasionally earn tips, especially in certain types of establishments such as smaller restaurants or private dining experiences. On average, they might earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, supplementing their base salary.
Chef Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.46 per hour, which equals about $40,476.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Cambridge earn significantly more, at about $27.25 per hour and $56,680.00 annually.
This difference reflects Cambridge's local cost of living and the demand for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Chefs
Nearby areas offer the following salary levels for Chefs:
- Boston: $27.69 per hour
- Burlington: $27.20 per hour
Chefs working in Boston may find slightly higher pay than those in Burlington, but Cambridge remains competitive within the region.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several factors affect how much a Chef earns in Cambridge:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Chefs with specialized culinary techniques or extensive kitchen management experience usually command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale or fine dining restaurants generally offers better pay compared to casual or fast-casual spots.
- Education and Certifications: Completing culinary programs or holding certifications such as the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can increase earnings potential.
- Reputation and Network: Chefs known for their craft or with a strong professional network often negotiate higher wages.
How To Become a Chef in Cambridge
Starting a career as a Chef in Cambridge involves several key steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Education: Programs like those offered by the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts or Boston University Metropolitan College Culinary Arts Program provide valuable training and credentials.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring certifications such as the ServSafe Certification is important to meet health and safety standards.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Working as a Commis Chef or line cook helps develop culinary skills and familiarity with kitchen operations.
- Obtain Advanced Certifications: Pursuing credentials like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can enhance career prospects and salary potentials.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Cambridge
Some of the notable employers in Cambridge seeking skilled Chefs include:
- Oleana
- Hi-Rise Bread Company
- Wusong Road
Establishments That Chefs in Cambridge Work At
Chefs work across a variety of establishments in Cambridge, each influencing their salary potential:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These tend to offer higher salaries and demand advanced culinary skills.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically provide moderate wages but more entry-level opportunities.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments often offer stable employment and competitive pay.
- Bakery and Specialty Food Shops: Chefs here may focus on niche culinary arts and receive specialized pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Chefs
If you are interested in related roles within the hospitality industry, you might consider these positions:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, all closely related to a Chef’s responsibilities and career path.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Cambridge
Chefs in Cambridge should be familiar with local labor laws and federal regulations to ensure fair work conditions and proper tax compliance.
- Visit the Massachusetts government website for detailed information on employment standards and labor laws.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, check the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.