Chef Salary in Fargo, ND
Chefs in Fargo, ND, in 2026, earn approximately $24.51 per hour, which translates to about $980.40 per week, $4,248.40 per month, and $50,980.80 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Fargo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Fargo, ND?
The salary of a Chef in Fargo can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.30 | $852.00 | $3,688.00 | $44,304.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.51 | $980.40 | $4,248.40 | $50,980.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.57 | $1,142.80 | $4,929.87 | $59,345.60 |
Do Chefs in Fargo Earn Tips?
Chefs in Fargo typically do not earn tips as their work takes place primarily in the kitchen. Their earnings usually come from their salary or hourly wages rather than additional tip income.
Chef Salary in Fargo, ND vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $25.00 per hour, translating to about $52,000 per year.
When compared to the national average, Chefs in Fargo earn slightly less per hour at about $24.51 and approximately $50,980.80 annually.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fargo for Chefs
When looking at nearby areas, Chef salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Fargo: $25.50 per hour
- West Fargo: $26.00 per hour
Chefs working in West Fargo can expect to earn a bit more than those working downtown or in Fargo city limits.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Fargo?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Chef in Fargo:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Chefs with specialized culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually earn more than those in casual dining or fast food.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary degrees or certifications can increase earning potential.
- Shift Timings: Working evening or weekend shifts might offer shift differentials or bonuses.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Economic factors in Fargo impact wages for culinary professionals.
How To Become a Chef in Fargo
Starting a career as a Chef in Fargo can be enhanced by following these steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Training: Consider programs like the North Dakota State University Culinary Arts Program which offers hands-on experience.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Programs such as the ServSafe Certification ensure knowledge of food safety, while the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification demonstrates supervisory expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in various kitchen roles builds essential skills and industry knowledge.
- Networking: Engaging with local culinary professionals can open doors to better opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Fargo
Some of the prominent employers hiring Chefs in Fargo include:
- Hotel Donaldson
- Mezzaluna
- Rosewild
Establishments That Chefs in Fargo Work At
Chefs in Fargo find employment across a variety of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher salaries due to demand for culinary expertise.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Provide more volume-based opportunities but often with lower pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: These often pay competitive wages and may offer benefits and career advancement.
- Catering Services: May provide varied work environments with fluctuating schedules and pay scales.
The type of establishment impacts a Chef's salary significantly based on prestige, clientele, and scale of operations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fargo for Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to Chef, here are some similar roles worth considering:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, all of which involve culinary leadership and management responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Fargo
Chefs should understand labor laws and tax regulations relevant to working in Fargo, ND:
- State labor regulations and worker rights are detailed on the official North Dakota state website.
- Federal labor laws including minimum wage and overtime can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.