Chef Salary in Kenosha, WI
Chefs in Kenosha, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $17.37 per hour, which translates to about $694.80 per week, $3,010.80 per month, and $36,129.60 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Kenosha is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for individuals pursuing a culinary career in this city.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Kenosha, WI?
The salary of a Chef in Kenosha varies by experience level and expertise. Below is a breakdown across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.84 | $633.60 | $2,737.60 | $32,832.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.37 | $694.80 | $3,010.80 | $36,129.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.05 | $762.00 | $3,298.00 | $39,624.00 |
Do Chefs in Kenosha Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as part of their regular income because they work primarily behind the scenes in kitchens without direct interactions with customers. Their earnings come mainly from their salary or hourly wage.
Chef Salary in Kenosha vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of approximately $19.50 per hour and about $40,560 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Kenosha earn less with an average hourly rate of $17.37 and an annual salary of around $36,129.60. This difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and demand within the culinary industry in Kenosha.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kenosha for Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Chefs:
- Downtown Kenosha: $19.50 per hour
- Hillcrest: $18.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown Kenosha may find higher pay opportunities compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Kenosha?
Experience and Skill Level greatly affect a Chef’s earning potential, with more skilled and seasoned Chefs commanding higher wages.
Type of Establishment matters; Chefs working in upscale restaurants or luxury hotels tend to earn more than those in casual diners or fast food.
Certifications and Education play an important role, as holding recognized culinary qualifications or specialized training can raise salary levels.
Location within Kenosha also impacts pay, with central or high-demand areas offering better compensation.
How To Become a Chef in Kenosha
To begin a career as a Chef, you can pursue education and training opportunities locally, such as the Gateway Technical College Culinary Arts Program that provides hands-on experience in culinary skills.
Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Certification is also critical to demonstrate knowledge in food safety and proper handling procedures.
Additionally, gaining practical work experience through apprenticeships or entry-level roles helps build necessary experience to advance as a Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Kenosha
- The Stella Hotel & Ballroom
- The Apis Hotel & Restaurant
- The Boathouse
Establishments That Chefs in Kenosha Work At
Chefs in Kenosha work across a range of establishments including:
- Casual and fine dining restaurants, which may offer varied salary scales depending on the clientele and menu complexity.
- Hotels and banquet facilities, often providing higher pay and potential benefits due to larger scale operations.
- Fast casual and quick service eateries, where wages might be more modest but provide steady opportunities.
The type of establishment influences daily work pace, responsibilities, and ultimately salary levels for Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kenosha for Chef
If you’re interested in careers related to being a Chef, consider these similar hospitality positions which also offer diverse culinary roles:
These include Executive Chef, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, which offer various leadership and culinary opportunities within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Kenosha
Chefs in Kenosha should familiarize themselves with labor regulations and tax requirements from both federal and state resources.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive employment standards.
- The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development provides state-specific labor laws, tax information, and employment resources.