Chef Salary in Huntington, WV
Chefs in Huntington, WV, in 2025, earn approximately $16.49 per hour, which translates to about $659.60 per week, $2,858.27 per month, and $34,299.20 per year.
The job demand for Chefs in Huntington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Huntington, WV?
The salary of a Chef in Huntington varies based on experience and other factors, but here’s a breakdown of earnings at different expertise levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.49 | $659.60 | $2,858.27 | $34,299.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Chefs in Huntington Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is typically behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation and kitchen management rather than direct customer service.
Chef Salary in Huntington, WV vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $18.50 per hour, which translates to about $38,480 per year.
Compared to this, Chefs in Huntington earn slightly less, with an average of $16.49 per hour and $34,299.20 annually.
This difference can be attributed to local market conditions and cost of living in Huntington.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington for Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Chefs:
- Southeast Hills: $17.50 per hour
- Southside: $18.00 per hour
Chefs working in Southside might find slightly better pay compared to other nearby areas.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Huntington?
Several factors impact how much a Chef can earn in Huntington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Chefs with advanced culinary skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working in upscale restaurants or hotels often earn more than those in casual dining or fast-food places.
- Management Responsibilities: Chefs who take on managerial roles or lead kitchen teams typically receive higher pay.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications or degrees can boost earning potential.
- Specialty Cuisine Expertise: Chefs specializing in niche or gourmet cuisines may attract better wages.
How To Become a Chef in Huntington
To build a successful career as a Chef in Huntington, consider the following:
- Pursue Local Culinary Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Mountwest Community & Technical College offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Hospitality Knowledge: The Hospitality Management Program at Marshall University provides valuable education in hospitality operations and culinary management.
- Get Food Safety Certification: Completing the ServSafe Certification, a respected program by the National Restaurant Association, is often essential.
- Advance Through Certification: Earning credentials like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification from the American Culinary Federation can enhance career prospects.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Start working in kitchen roles such as Line Cook or Sous Chef to build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Huntington
Among the leading employers actively hiring Chefs in Huntington are:
- 21 at the Frederick
- The Peddler
- Backyard Pizza and Raw Bar
Establishments That Chefs in Huntington Work At
Chefs in Huntington typically work in a variety of settings including casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, fine dining establishments, and catering services.
The type of establishment affects salary, with fine dining and hotel restaurants generally offering higher pay due to the level of skill and experience required.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington for Chef
Those interested in the culinary field may also consider related roles that share similar skills and career paths:
This includes Executive Chef, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, which often involve expanded responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Huntington
Chefs in Huntington should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Details on West Virginia state labor laws can be found on the West Virginia Division of Labor website.
- Information on federal labor regulations is available through the Federal Department of Labor website.