Chef Salary in Kailua, HI
Chefs in Kailua, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $26.15 per hour, which translates to about $1,046.00 per week, $4,532.67 per month, and $54,392.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Kailua is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals in this vibrant Hawaiian city.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Kailua, HI?
The salary of a Chef in Kailua varies depending on experience, skills, and establishment type. Below is a breakdown of potential earnings based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.15 | $806.00 | $3,489.33 | $41,872.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.15 | $1,046.00 | $4,532.67 | $54,392.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.94 | $1,357.60 | $5,858.53 | $70,595.20 |
Do Chefs in Kailua Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily in the kitchen and not customer-facing. However, in some upscale or open-kitchen restaurants, chefs might receive occasional tip-sharing or bonuses, but these are not guaranteed and generally modest compared to front-of-house staff.
Chef Salary in Kailua vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.67 per hour, translating to about $40,913.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Kailua, HI, earn significantly higher wages at about $26.15 per hour and $54,392.00 annually.
This uplift can be attributed to factors such as the higher cost of living in Hawaii and the importance of tourism driving demand for experienced culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kailua for Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Chefs, including:
- Buzz's Original Steak House: $35 per hour
- Cinnamon's Restaurant: $33 per hour
Working at these establishments may provide Chefs with higher earning potential due to their reputation and clientele.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Kailua?
Several factors can affect the salary of a Chef in Kailua:
- Experience and Skill Level: Chefs with more years in the field or specialized skills such as French cuisine or seafood preparation tend to command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working at high-end restaurants, hotels, or resorts usually earn more than those in casual dining or smaller eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary training and certifications, including programs from local colleges, positively impact salary potential.
- Responsibilities and Role: Executive Chefs or Head Chefs oversee kitchen staff and menu planning, attracting higher earnings than line-level Chefs.
How To Become a Chef in Kailua
Becoming a successful Chef in Kailua involves several key steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Programs like the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program and Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training with hands-on experience.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification ensure knowledge of food safety practices and are often prerequisites for managerial roles.
- Obtain Liquor Licenses if Required: Managers in restaurants serving alcohol may also need to have a Hawaii Liquor Commission Manager's Card.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a line cook or commis chef helps build the foundation for progressing to higher roles.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Kailua
Some of the top employers looking for skilled Chefs in Kailua include:
- Buzz's Original Steak House
- Cinnamon's Restaurant
- Uahi Island Grill
Establishments That Chefs in Kailua Work At
Chefs in Kailua work across various types of establishments, each influencing salary differently:
- Fine Dining and High-End Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to demanding culinary standards and clientele.
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Pay generally is moderate; however, these venues provide valuable experience.
- Resorts and Hotels: Chefs here may have more responsibilities and receive better pay and benefits.
- Casual Beachside Eateries: Though pay can be lower, these establishments might offer more flexible work environments.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kailua for Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to being a Chef, several similar roles might be worth exploring.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Kailua
Chefs working in Kailua should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations both at the federal and state levels to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For specific state labor laws and resources, check the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.