Chef Salary in Chattanooga, TN
Chefs in Chattanooga, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $23.44 per hour, which translates to about $937.60 per week, $4,062.93 per month, and $48,755.20 per year.
The job market for Chefs is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating a promising outlook and increasing demand for culinary professionals in Chattanooga.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Chattanooga, TN?
The salary of a Chef in Chattanooga depends on experience, skills, and employer type. Below is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.38 | $815.20 | $3,526.93 | $42,390.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.44 | $937.60 | $4,062.93 | $48,755.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.35 | $1,094.00 | $4,724.67 | $56,888.00 |
Do Chefs in Chattanooga Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come mainly through their salary or hourly wages.
Chef Salary in Chattanooga vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Chefs is approximately $25.00 per hour, equating to about $52,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Chattanooga earn slightly less at around $23.44 hourly and $48,755 annually. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and regional culinary market dynamics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chattanooga for Chefs
Salary rates for Chefs can vary in nearby neighborhoods:
- Downtown: $25.00 per hour
- North Shore: $24.50 per hour
Chefs working in Downtown Chattanooga tend to earn more compared to those in North Shore, likely due to higher-end dining establishments and customer demand.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Chattanooga?
Experience and culinary skills are major factors impacting a Chef’s earnings. Those with extensive backgrounds or specialized expertise such as in pastry or ethnic cuisines typically earn more.
The type of establishment also plays a significant role. Chefs in fine dining restaurants or luxury hotels generally receive higher pay than those employed by casual dining or fast-food venues.
Additional influences include certifications, leadership skills, and the ability to manage kitchen operations effectively. Higher responsibility levels translate into better compensation.
Lastly, local economic conditions and the cost of living in Chattanooga also affect salary ranges for culinary professionals.
How To Become a Chef in Chattanooga
Becoming a successful Chef in Chattanooga involves several strategic steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Enrolling in culinary programs like the Chattanooga State Community College Culinary Arts Program or obtaining a degree in hospitality from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Hospitality and Tourism Management Program provides a solid foundation.
- Acquire Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and demonstrate important knowledge of food safety practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a Line Cook or Commis Chef and working upward allows honing of skills and development of kitchen management expertise.
- Advance with Professional Certifications: Achieving credentials like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) title from the American Culinary Federation can boost career prospects and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Chattanooga
The following companies frequently recruit Chefs and culinary professionals in Chattanooga:
- Sodexo
- Compass Group
- Aramark
Establishments That Chefs in Chattanooga Work At
Chefs in Chattanooga find employment in a variety of foodservice establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to the quality and complexity of cuisine.
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Offer moderate pay but good opportunities for growth.
- Hotels and Resorts: Pay levels can vary but often provide benefits and steady hours.
- Institutional Kitchens (Hospitals, Schools, etc.): May offer stable employment but generally at lower salaries compared to commercial venues.
The type of establishment greatly influences earning potential and career advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chattanooga for Chef
For those interested in roles similar to Chef, some related careers include:
These include Executive Chef, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which involve related responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Chattanooga
Chefs in Chattanooga should stay informed about relevant labor laws and taxation policies to ensure fair working conditions and compliance.
- Check details on employment standards and regulations on the official Tennessee government website.
- Federal labor laws and guidelines are available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.