Chef Salary in Clarksville, TN
Chefs in Clarksville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $19.90 per hour, which translates to about $796.00 per week, $3,449.33 per month, and $41,392.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Clarksville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Clarksville, TN?
The salary of a Chef in Clarksville can vary greatly depending on experience level, skills, and the specific employer. Following is a breakdown of typical earnings for Chefs at different stages of their careers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.43 | $617.20 | $2,672.53 | $32,070.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.90 | $796.00 | $3,449.33 | $41,392.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.46 | $1,538.40 | $6,657.07 | $79,996.80 |
Do Chefs in Clarksville Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips directly as part of their compensation. Tips are usually reserved for front-of-house staff such as servers and bartenders. However, in some smaller or specialized establishments, chefs may receive occasional gratuities or bonuses, but these are not guaranteed nor typically a significant part of their income.
Chef Salary in Clarksville vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of approximately $18.60 per hour, or around $38,688 per year.
In comparison, Chefs in Clarksville, TN, earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $19.90 and an annual income of about $41,392. This reflects a positive local market that offers competitive pay relative to the national norm.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clarksville for Chefs
Different areas near Clarksville offer varied pay rates for Chefs. Some of the highest-paying nearby locations include:
- Downtown: $38.46 per hour
- North Clarksville: $33.17 per hour
Chefs working in Downtown Clarksville can expect significantly higher pay, often reflecting the prestige and clientele of establishments there.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Clarksville?
Several important factors determine how much a Chef can earn in Clarksville:
- Experience and Skill Level: Chefs with more experience or specialized culinary skills, including pastry or ethnic cuisines, command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or catering businesses typically pay more than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary degrees or certifications such as ServSafe or Certified Executive Chef (CEC) enhance employability and salary potential.
- Position and Responsibilities: Chefs with leadership roles, like Executive Chef or Head Chef, tend to have higher incomes.
- Location: Chefs working in more affluent or busy areas, like Downtown Clarksville, generally earn more.
How To Become a Chef in Clarksville
Becoming a Chef in Clarksville involves a combination of education, practical training, and certification:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Programs like the Austin Peay State University Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training with hands-on experience in various cuisines and kitchen management.
- Consider Technical Culinary Schools: The Tennessee College of Applied Technology Culinary Arts Program offers practical education focusing on cooking techniques and food safety.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Certification are essential for safe food handling and often required by employers.
- Advance with Professional Certification: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates higher culinary competence and leadership skills.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen positions to develop skills and build a professional network within the Clarksville culinary community.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Clarksville
Clarksville boasts several notable employers seeking skilled Chefs:
- Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q
- Strawberry Alley Ale Works
- Edward's Steakhouse
Establishments That Chefs in Clarksville Work At
Chefs in Clarksville may find work in a variety of culinary establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues offer steady opportunities but often with moderate salaries due to higher volume and lower prices.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Establishments offering gourmet cuisine tend to pay higher wages due to the skill and training required.
- Hotels and Resorts: Chefs in hospitality settings often earn competitive salaries and may receive additional benefits.
- Catering and Banquet Services: These roles require organizational skills and versatility, sometimes leading to higher pay depending on event volume.
The type and prestige of the establishment influence salary levels, with fine dining and specialized venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clarksville for Chefs
If you are interested in roles related to Chef positions, consider exploring these similar careers that leverage culinary expertise:
These include Executive Chef, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, each with distinct responsibilities and earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Clarksville
Chefs working in Clarksville need to understand local and federal labor laws that affect their employment conditions and taxes.
- Visit the official Tennessee government website for detailed information on state labor laws and regulations.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's website for federal labor laws, wage standards, and employment rights.