Chef Salary in Cicero, IL
Chefs in Cicero, IL, in 2026, earn approximately $22.00 per hour, which translates to about $880.00 per week, $3,813.33 per month, and $45,760.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Cicero is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities within the culinary field in this area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Cicero, IL?
The salary of a Chef in Cicero varies depending on experience and skills, with entry-level Chefs earning less than their experienced counterparts.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
Do Chefs in Cicero Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation and kitchen management rather than direct customer service.
Chef Salary in Cicero vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $22.00 per hour and about $45,760 annually, which aligns closely with salary figures in Cicero.
This suggests that Cicero offers competitive pay for Chefs, matching the broader national market rates.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cicero for Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Chefs:
- Downtown Cicero: $24.00 per hour
- West Cicero: $23.00 per hour
Chefs seeking higher wages might consider opportunities in Downtown Cicero, which currently leads in pay rates among the nearby locations.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Cicero?
Experience and Skills: Chefs with advanced culinary skills and several years of experience command higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels typically offers better pay than casual dining or fast food outlets.
Specializations: Expertise in specific cuisines or roles like Pastry Chef or Sous Chef can lead to higher earnings.
Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications can enhance salary prospects.
How To Become a Chef in Cicero
Becoming a Chef involves a mix of formal education, practical experience, and certifications.
Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Morton College provide hands-on training and vital knowledge for aspiring Chefs.
Nearby, the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program in Chicago offers a renowned curriculum with experienced faculty.
Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures understanding of critical food safety practices.
The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates elevated skills and can bolster career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Cicero
Several establishments in Cicero actively seek skilled Chefs, including:
- Angelo's Italian Eats
- Cicero Steakhouse
- The Green Basil Bistro
Establishments That Chefs in Cicero Work At
Chefs in Cicero commonly work across a range of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide the highest salaries due to the quality and complexity of dishes prepared.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These may offer lower pay but can provide valuable experience and steady employment.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Jobs here might include banquet cooking or managing kitchen staff, sometimes with benefits and advancement chances.
- Specialty Food Establishments: Places focusing on specific cuisines or pastries can pay well depending on the niche market.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary, with prestigious venues generally rewarding Chefs with higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cicero for Chefs
Those interested in culinary and kitchen-related roles may want to consider similar careers that complement or expand their skills as a Chef.
These roles include Executive Chef, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, involving leadership and culinary skills aligned with the Chef career path.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Cicero
Chefs should be familiar with local and federal labor laws and tax responsibilities to ensure compliance and workplace fairness.
- For federal labor laws, visit the Federal Department of Labor website.
- Illinois state-specific employment and labor regulations can be found at the Illinois Department of Employment Security website.