Chef Salary in Hendersonville, TN
Chefs in Hendersonville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Hendersonville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a favorable job market with increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Hendersonville, TN?
The salary of a Chef in Hendersonville can vary based on experience, skills, and employer but generally falls within the following ranges:
| 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 | $2,437.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Chefs in Hendersonville Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work primarily happens in the kitchen behind the scenes. Their compensation usually consists of a salary or hourly wage without additional tip income.
Chef Salary in Hendersonville vs. National Average
Nationwide, Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50, which equates to approximately $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Hendersonville earn slightly less at around $13.90 per hour and $28,912 per year. This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and market demand in Tennessee.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hendersonville for Chefs
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Chefs:
- Indian Lake Peninsula: $15.50 per hour
- Mansker Farms: $17.60 per hour
Chefs willing to commute to Mansker Farms may find higher wages than in Hendersonville itself, reflecting differences in local restaurant industries and clientele.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Hendersonville?
Experience and Culinary Skills greatly affect earning potential, with more skilled and seasoned Chefs commanding higher salaries.
Type of Establishment also plays a significant role. Chefs in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resort establishments generally earn more than those in casual or fast-food venues.
Certifications and Education can enhance a Chef's credentials and salary. Holding recognized certifications or having formal culinary education can be advantageous.
Work Hours and Shifts: Extended hours, holidays, and evenings often come with shift differentials impacting overall pay.
Local Economic Conditions: The regional cost of living and demand for culinary services influence wage levels.
How To Become a Chef in Hendersonville
Starting a career as a Chef in Hendersonville involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Consider local training such as the Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program offering comprehensive culinary techniques and kitchen management education.
- Advanced Culinary Education: The Art Institute of Tennessee Culinary Program provides advanced studies focusing on modern cuisine, enhancing skills further.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of Tennessee's food safety standards.
- Pursue Professional Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Sous Chef (CSC) demonstrate advanced culinary expertise and professionalism.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles for hands-on learning and progression.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Hendersonville
Popular employers in the area for Chef positions include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Chefs in Hendersonville Work At
Chefs in Hendersonville typically find work at various places, including casual dining, fast casual, and fine dining restaurants.
The type of establishment impacts salary significantly. Fine dining venues usually offer the highest wages with expectations of advanced skills, while fast casual and casual spots might offer lower pay but greater staffing flexibility.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hendersonville for Chefs
Professionals interested in roles similar to Chefs can explore several related positions within the hospitality industry:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, all of which require culinary and leadership skills and offer varied salary prospects.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Hendersonville
Chefs should stay informed about local labor laws and tax regulations to properly manage their employment conditions and finances.
- Information about Tennessee's labor laws can be found on the official Tennessee government website.
- For federal labor standards and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.