Chef Salary in Huntsville, AL
Chefs in Huntsville, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $24.61 per hour, which translates to about $984.40 per week, $4,265.73 per month, and $51,188.80 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Huntsville is growing positively at about 5% per year, signaling a promising outlook for culinary professionals seeking employment in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Huntsville, AL?
The salary of a Chef in Huntsville can vary depending on level of expertise and the establishment, but here is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.38 | $855.20 | $3,703.73 | $44,428.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.61 | $984.40 | $4,265.73 | $51,188.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.05 | $1,442.00 | $6,234.67 | $74,984.00 |
Do Chefs in Huntsville Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as part of their compensation since they work mainly behind the scenes preparing food. However, some positions like Private Chefs or certain roles in high-end restaurants might receive tips occasionally, but it is not typical for most Chefs.
Chef Salary in Huntsville vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of about $25.00 per hour, translating to roughly $52,000 per year.
Chefs in Huntsville earn slightly below the national average at around $24.61 per hour and $51,188.80 annually, reflecting the local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntsville for Chefs
Nearby areas provide some differences in pay for Chefs:
- Downtown Huntsville: $25.50 per hour
- Madison: $26.00 per hour
Chefs working in Madison may earn a bit more due to the area's economic environment and dining scene.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Huntsville?
Several factors affect the salary of a Chef in Huntsville:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Chefs who master advanced cooking techniques typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs in upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering businesses can earn more than those working in casual or fast-food settings.
- Specialized Training and Certifications: Certifications like Certified Executive Chef (CEC) enhance credibility and earning potential.
- Job Responsibilities: Chefs who manage kitchen staff or oversee menu development usually earn more.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Huntsville’s growing food industry can drive wages upward over time.
How To Become a Chef in Huntsville
To build a career as a Chef in Huntsville, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Programs like the Calhoun Community College Culinary Arts Program and Drake State Community and Technical College Culinary Program offer comprehensive hands-on training and knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is essential for understanding food and beverage safety standards.
- Gain Professional Certification: Pursue credentials like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) to validate culinary expertise.
- Build Practical Experience: Begin working in kitchens to develop your skills, from line cook to Head Chef roles.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Huntsville
Some notable employers in Huntsville looking for skilled Chefs include:
- Marriott Hotel Huntsville
- Redstone Village Retirement Community
- Crestwood Medical Center
Establishments That Chefs in Huntsville Work At
Chefs in Huntsville are employed across various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest pay due to menu complexity and customer expectations.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Provide practical kitchen experience but generally lower salaries.
- Hotels and Resorts: Offer stable employment with possibilities for advancement and better benefits.
- Catering Services and Retirement Communities: Often value experience and reliability, sometimes providing competitive wages.
Salary levels tend to vary based on the establishment's prestige, clientele, and operational scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntsville for Chef
If you're interested in careers related to Chef, you might consider roles such as:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions, all involving leadership roles in the culinary and hospitality fields.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Huntsville
Chefs should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal employment laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Alabama Department of Labor provides state-specific labor information.
- Local regulations and resources can be found at the City of Huntsville's official website.