Chef Salary in Montgomery, AL
Chefs in Montgomery, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.17 per hour, which translates to about $646.80 per week, $2,802.80 per month, and $33,633.60 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Montgomery is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Montgomery, AL?
The salary of a Chef in Montgomery varies based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Chefs in Montgomery Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips directly as their role is primarily behind the scenes. However, in some establishments such as smaller restaurants or catering services, Chefs might receive occasional tip shares, but it is generally not a consistent supplement to their income.
Chef Salary in Montgomery vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which equates to roughly $30,160 per year.
Chefs in Montgomery earn slightly higher on average, with an hourly rate of around $16.17 and a yearly salary of approximately $33,633.60.
This higher pay may be influenced by local market demand, cost of living factors, and the presence of specialized culinary establishments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Montgomery for Chefs
Salaries for Chefs can differ within the Montgomery area. Notably, the below neighborhoods offer competitive wages:
- Downtown: $17.60 per hour
- East Montgomery: $15.50 per hour
Chefs working in Downtown Montgomery can expect higher pay rates compared to other parts of the city, likely due to more upscale dining venues and hospitality demand.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Montgomery?
Several factors impact the salary of a Chef in Montgomery:
- Experience and Expertise: Chefs with extensive culinary experience and specialized skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often pay more than casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications such as ServSafe or Certified Culinarian can enhance earning potential.
- Management Responsibilities: Chefs who supervise kitchen staff or manage food operations typically earn more.
- Hours and Shift Types: Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays may come with premium pay.
How To Become a Chef in Montgomery
Here are key steps to pursue a career as a Chef in Montgomery:
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Trenholm State Community College and the Culinary Arts Associate of Applied Science at Montgomery County Community College offer valuable hands-on training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Completing the ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of food handling safety essential for the industry.
- Earn Culinary Credentials: Consider attaining certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate competency.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles to develop skills and work your way up.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Montgomery
Several prominent companies actively hire Chefs in the area:
- Compass Group
- Morrison Healthcare
- PWA Management
Establishments That Chefs in Montgomery Work At
Chefs in Montgomery often find employment across various types of culinary establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer moderate salaries but high staff turnover and diverse experience opportunities.
- Hotels and Fine Dining Restaurants: Generally provide better pay and potential for career advancement due to more complex cuisine and service.
- Catering and Event Venues: Chefs here may work project-based hours with varied pay depending on event scale.
- Institutional Food Services: Hospitals and schools require Chefs to prepare large quantities of food, which can offer stable employment.
Salary differences arise based on the establishment’s prestige, clientele, and culinary complexity.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Montgomery for Chef
If you are considering related roles in the culinary and hospitality sector near Montgomery, here are some options to explore:
These careers include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, roles that involve greater responsibility and often higher pay.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Montgomery
Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations specific to both the federal and Alabama state levels.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal employment guidelines.
- For Alabama-specific labor laws and employment services, check the Alabama government website.