Chef Salary in Dayton, OH
Chefs in Dayton, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $18.96 per hour, which translates to about $758.40 per week, $3,286.40 per month, and $39,436.80 per year.
The job demand for Chefs in Dayton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary field in the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Dayton, OH?
The salary of a Chef in Dayton varies significantly depending on experience and location, but here is an overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.67 | $586.80 | $2,533.30 | $31,329.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.96 | $758.40 | $3,286.40 | $39,436.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.51 | $980.40 | $4,237.80 | $50,980.80 |
Do Chefs in Dayton Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation mostly comes from their wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Chef Salary in Dayton vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Chefs is $18.96, with an annual salary around $39,436.80.
Chefs in Dayton earn roughly in line with the national average, making the city a competitive market for culinary professionals in terms of compensation.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Dayton for Chefs
Nearby areas often offer varied pay scales for Chefs:
- Downtown Dayton: $19.50 per hour
- Oakwood: $20.00 per hour
Chefs working in Oakwood can expect slightly higher pay compared to Downtown Dayton, likely due to differences in restaurant types and clientele.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Dayton?
Several factors affect a Chef's earning potential in Dayton, OH:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More seasoned Chefs or those with specialized cuisine skills command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants typically offers better pay than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications such as ServSafe can boost credibility and wage potential.
- Management and Leadership Roles: Chefs with kitchen management or supervisory responsibilities tend to earn more.
- Shift Timing and Workload: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with additional compensation.
How To Become a Chef in Dayton
Beginning a career as a Chef in Dayton involves several steps that build culinary expertise and qualifications:
- Join culinary classes: Institutions like Dorothy Lane Market Culinary School in Centerville offer diverse cooking courses for aspiring Chefs.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Programs such as ServSafe Certification help ensure proper food handling and are often required by employers.
- Gain kitchen experience: Entry-level kitchen roles provide valuable hands-on learning opportunities.
- Network and seek mentorship: Building professional relationships in the culinary field can aid career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Dayton
Several notable employers in Dayton frequently seek skilled Chefs:
- Dorothy Lane Market
- Marriott International
- Sueno
Establishments That Chefs in Dayton Work At
Chefs in Dayton can be found working across various types of establishments including:
- Casual dining restaurants: Typically offer moderate wages and opportunities for advancement.
- Fine dining establishments: Often provide higher pay and require specialized skills and experience.
- Hotels and resorts: Larger venues may offer competitive salaries and benefits packages.
- Catering companies and event venues: Pay can vary depending on event scale and employer.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Chef's salary, with upscale and specialty venues offering more lucrative pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Dayton for Chef
Those interested in roles akin to Chef can consider several related career paths within the hospitality and culinary sectors.
These include Executive Chef, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions which offer complementary skills and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Dayton
Chefs in Dayton should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations to maintain compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for information on federal labor regulations.
- Consult the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services for state-specific employment laws and resources.