Chef Salary in Milwaukee, WI
Chefs in Milwaukee, WI, earn approximately $23.92 per hour, translating to about $956.80 per week, $4,146.13 per month, and $49,753.60 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing positive job growth in the culinary industry and increasing opportunities for professionals in this field.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary of a Chef in Milwaukee can vary depending on experience, skills, and specific employers. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.35 | $494.00 | $2,138.67 | $25,688.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.92 | $956.80 | $4,146.13 | $49,753.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $46.36 | $1,854.40 | $8,022.93 | $96,348.80 |
Do Chefs in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Chefs may earn tips in some establishments, especially in smaller or upscale restaurants where kitchen staff share tips. On average, a Chef can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, adding a significant boost to their overall earnings.
Chef Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn around $19.75 per hour, translating to about $41,080 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Milwaukee earn a higher hourly wage of $23.92 and make approximately $49,753.60 annually. This difference can be influenced by local demand, cost of living, and culinary culture in Milwaukee.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Chefs
Nearby areas offer varied salary opportunities for Chefs:
- Downtown Milwaukee: $25.50 per hour
- East Side: $24.80 per hour
Chefs working in Downtown Milwaukee tend to earn the highest wages in the area, reflecting the dense concentration of restaurants and hospitality venues.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Milwaukee?
Several factors strongly impact the salary of a Chef in Milwaukee:
- Experience Level: Chefs with more years and advanced culinary skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often pay more than casual or fast food venues.
- Specialty Skills: Expertise in cuisines, baking, or menu development can increase earnings.
- Certifications: Formal education and certifications in culinary arts add to a Chef’s value.
- Location: Working in higher-paying districts such as Downtown Milwaukee boosts pay.
How To Become a Chef in Milwaukee
To become a Chef in Milwaukee, aspiring professionals often pursue the following steps:
- Obtain a Culinary Arts Associate Degree at Milwaukee Area Technical College: This program offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food service operations, preparing students for various roles in the culinary industry.
- Earn ServSafe Certification: This food safety training and certification program administered by the National Restaurant Association is essential for ensuring safe food handling practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Hands-on work in kitchens through internships or entry-level positions is vital.
- Network and Continue Learning: Participation in culinary workshops and events helps expand knowledge and professional contacts.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Milwaukee
Several notable employers in Milwaukee currently seek skilled Chefs:
- Ardent
- Sanford
- Mason Street Grill
Establishments That Chefs in Milwaukee Work At
Chefs in Milwaukee typically work in a wide range of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate pay with opportunities to develop diverse cooking skills.
- Fast Casual Venues: Chefs here handle high-volume food preparation, sometimes with lower wages but more consistent hours.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments usually offer the highest salaries, reflecting the expertise and creativity required.
- Hotels & Catering Services: Chefs often enjoy higher pay and benefits working in upscale or event-driven settings.
The choice of establishment greatly influences salary, with fine dining and hotels typically offering the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Chefs
If you're interested in exploring careers related to being a Chef, here are some similar roles:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities with Chefs.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Milwaukee
Chefs in Milwaukee should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance:
- Information on federal labor laws and workers' rights can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific employment regulations, visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website.