Chef Salary in Little-Rock, AR
Chefs in Little-Rock, AR, earn approximately $18.58 per hour, which translates to about $743.20 per week, $3,220.53 per month, and $38,646.40 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Little-Rock is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Little-Rock, AR?
The salary of a Chef in Little-Rock can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.03 | $601.20 | $2,607.20 | $31,286.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.58 | $743.20 | $3,220.53 | $38,646.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.96 | $918.40 | $3,964.27 | $47,756.80 |
Do Chefs in Little-Rock Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is mainly behind the scenes. Their compensation typically comes entirely from their salary or wages.
Chef Salary in Little-Rock, AR vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.76 per hour, translating to about $41,100.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Little-Rock earn slightly less, at about $18.58 per hour and $38,646.40 annually.
This difference can be attributed to local economic factors and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little-Rock for Chefs
Nearby areas offer the following salaries for Chefs:
- Downtown: $19.50 per hour
- Riverdale: $20.00 per hour
Chefs may find better pay opportunities in Riverdale compared to Downtown, offering a competitive edge for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Little-Rock?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Chef in Little-Rock:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Chefs or those with specialized culinary skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working in upscale or fine dining restaurants often earn more than those in casual or fast-food settings.
- Certifications and Education: Professional culinary training and certifications, such as ServSafe or Certified Executive Chef (CEC), can increase earning potential.
- Location: Working in higher-paying areas like Riverdale can offer better salaries.
- Responsibilities: Chefs with supervisory or managerial duties typically receive higher pay than line cooks or kitchen assistants.
How To Become a Chef in Little-Rock
To pursue a career as a Chef in Little-Rock, consider these steps:
- Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Pulaski Technical College Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute for hands-on culinary training.
- Degree Programs: The University of Arkansas at Little Rock offers a Hospitality Management Program that includes culinary courses, which can enhance management skills in the food service industry.
- Certifications: Obtain industry-recognized certificates like ServSafe Certification for food safety and the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential for chefs with supervisory experience.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen positions to develop technical skills and climb the career ladder toward Chef roles.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Little-Rock
Some notable employers looking for Chefs in the Little-Rock area include:
- The Capital Hotel
- Brave New Restaurant
- One Eleven at the Capital
Establishments That Chefs in Little-Rock Work At
Chefs in Little-Rock are commonly employed in various types of establishments:
- Fine dining restaurants: These establishments generally offer the best pay, reflecting the skill and experience required.
- Casual dining: Chefs here may earn moderate salaries and have opportunities for creativity.
- Hotels and resorts: Employment in hospitality venues can come with additional benefits and stable wages.
- Fast casual and quick service: Usually lower pay levels but higher turnover rates provide many job openings.
The type of establishment directly affects earnings, with fine dining venues typically paying the most for skilled Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little-Rock for Chef
If you are interested in careers similar to being a Chef, consider these related roles:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which involve related responsibilities and different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Little-Rock
Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax requirements at both federal and state levels to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- For federal labor laws and workplace regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Arkansas state-specific labor laws, wage regulations, and employment resources are available on the official Arkansas government website.