Chef Salary in Collingswood, NJ
Chefs in Collingswood, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.32 per hour, which translates to about $692.80 per week, $3,002.13 per month, and $36,025.60 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Collingswood is growing steadily, with a 5% annual increase, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and growth in the culinary field.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Collingswood, NJ?
The salary of a Chef in Collingswood varies based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Here's a breakdown across different levels.
| 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,953.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Chefs in Collingswood Earn Tips?
Chefs usually do not earn tips as their work mostly takes place in the kitchen, away from direct customer interaction. Their income primarily comes from their wages or salary.
Chef Salary in Collingswood vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $14.50 per hour and about $30,160 per year.
Chefs in Collingswood earn slightly above the national hourly average, at $17.32 per hour, and earn more annually with $36,025.60. This is likely due to local cost of living and demand for culinary skills.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Collingswood for Chefs
Nearby areas and their average hourly pay for Chefs include:
- Area 1: $15.50 per hour
- Area 2: $17.60 per hour
Collingswood competes with these nearby regions offering competitive salaries to attract culinary talent.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Collingswood?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations for Chefs in Collingswood:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Chefs with specialized culinary skills or management expertise tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or specialty catering services typically offers better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees or certifications like ServSafe or Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can boost earning potential.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working evenings, weekends, or longer shifts might come with additional compensation.
- Local Market Demand and Cost of Living: The economic conditions and competitiveness of the Collingswood job market also shape salaries.
How To Become a Chef in Collingswood
Starting a career as a Chef in Collingswood involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Consider programs such as the Academy of Culinary Arts at Atlantic Cape Community College in Mays Landing or Gloucester County Institute of Technology's Academy of Culinary Arts in Deptford Township for foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Certifications: Food safety courses like ServSafe Certification and credentials like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) help improve skills and credibility.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work as a kitchen assistant, line cook, or apprentice to develop hands-on skills.
- Network and Seek Mentorship: Building relationships with experienced Chefs can provide guidance and job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Collingswood
Some of the top establishments currently hiring Chefs in Collingswood include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Chefs in Collingswood Work At
Chefs in Collingswood typically find employment opportunities at several types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady work with moderate pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service Restaurants: Usually pay less but may provide faster career progression and high-volume kitchen experience.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: These often provide higher salaries, expectations for advanced skills, and creativity.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations may pay more and offer benefits but might demand longer work hours.
The establishment type significantly affects salary levels and career growth trajectories.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Collingswood for Chef
If you're exploring similar roles in hospitality, consider these related careers which share overlapping skills:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, each with distinct roles and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Collingswood
To understand your labor rights and tax responsibilities as a Chef in Collingswood, refer to these official resources:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- For state-specific information, the New Jersey official government site provides guidance on employment laws and tax matters.