Chef Salary in Inglewood, CA
Chefs in Inglewood, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $30.89 per hour, which translates to about $1,235.60 per week, $5,354.27 per month, and $64,251.20 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Inglewood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a promising outlook for those looking to enter or advance in this culinary profession.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Inglewood, CA?
The salary of a Chef in Inglewood can vary based on experience and expertise. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different skill levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.44 | $937.60 | $4,062.93 | $48,751.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.89 | $1,235.60 | $5,354.27 | $64,251.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $40.70 | $1,628.00 | $7,033.33 | $84,556.00 |
Do Chefs in Inglewood Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips directly; their compensation usually comes from their salary or hourly wage. However, in some upscale or specialized kitchens, chefs might receive occasional tips or bonuses, but this is not standard practice.
Chef Salary in Inglewood vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn about $19.47 per hour, which amounts to an average annual income of roughly $40,497.60.
Compared to this, Chefs in Inglewood earn considerably more, with an average hourly wage of $30.89 and an annual salary of $64,251.20, reflecting the higher cost of living and the culinary demand in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Inglewood for Chefs
Nearby cities offer even higher salaries for Chefs, such as:
- El Segundo: $74.49 per hour
- Santa Monica: $73.84 per hour
These areas are known for their upscale dining scenes and may offer lucrative opportunities for experienced Chefs willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Inglewood?
The salary of a Chef in Inglewood can be influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: Chefs with extensive experience or specialized skills such as pastry, ethnic cuisines, or kitchen management tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining restaurants, hotels, or private catering services often pays more compared to casual or fast casual kitchens.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary school training and certifications like ServSafe are valued and can boost earning potential.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger or well-known establishments usually offer better compensation and advancement opportunities.
- Location and Market Demand: Urban centers or gourmet dining hubs often have higher pay scales reflecting demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Chef in Inglewood
To start a career as a Chef in Inglewood, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Programs like the CASA Schools – Culinary Apprenticeship Program provide hands-on training under expert mentorship, ideal for aspiring chefs. This program welcomes all skill levels and emphasizes practical experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers in California to ensure proper handling and safety practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in kitchen roles like prep cook or line cook helps build essential skills to advance.
- Network in the Industry: Connecting with local chefs and culinary organizations can open doors to job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Inglewood
Several prominent employers in the Inglewood area include:
- The Strand House
- Levy Restaurants
- Compass Group USA
Establishments That Chefs in Inglewood Work At
Chefs in Inglewood are commonly employed in various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher salaries due to the complexity and quality of cuisine prepared.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: May have more entry-level opportunities but usually with lower pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay competitive wages and provide benefits along with steady hours.
- Catering Companies and Private Chefs: Can offer lucrative income but may involve irregular hours or travel.
The choice of establishment substantially impacts salary, responsibilities, and work environment for Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Inglewood for Chefs
If you are interested in similar career paths to Chef, consider these related roles:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share overlapping skills and offer different responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Inglewood
Chefs should be informed about applicable labor laws and tax regulations to safeguard their rights and ensure compliance.
- For information on federal labor laws visit the U.S. Department of Labor website, which provides comprehensive resources on wages, working hours, and workplace safety.
- The California Department of Industrial Relations website offers guidance on state-specific labor laws, wage standards, and safety regulations applicable to Chefs in California.