Chef Salary in Omaha, NE
Chefs in Omaha, NE, in 2025, earn approximately $19.64 per hour, which translates to about $785.60 per week, $3,404.27 per month, and $40,851.20 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Omaha is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities in the culinary industry.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Omaha, NE?
The salary of a Chef in Omaha varies based on experience, skill level, and employer type. Here's a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.07 | $602.80 | $2,614.67 | $31,354.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.64 | $785.60 | $3,404.27 | $40,851.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.60 | $1,024.00 | $4,426.67 | $53,248.00 |
Do Chefs in Omaha Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is largely behind the scenes in kitchens rather than serving customers directly. Their income is mostly comprised of salary or wages.
Chef Salary in Omaha vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.64 per hour or approximately $40,851.20 per year. Omaha aligns closely with these figures.
This similarity suggests Omaha offers competitive salaries for Chefs relative to the national market, reflecting balanced cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Omaha for Chefs
Nearby cities often offer varying pay rates for Chefs:
- La Vista: $32.89 per hour
- Elkhorn: $37.34 per hour
Chefs willing to commute to La Vista or Elkhorn can expect substantially higher hourly wages compared to Omaha itself.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Omaha?
Several factors can influence how much a Chef earns in Omaha:
- Experience and Expertise: Chefs with more years of experience or specialized culinary skills often command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants tend to pay more than casual or fast food venues.
- Educational Background: Formal culinary education or certifications can enhance earnings potential.
- Location within the metro area: Establishments in higher-income neighborhoods may offer better pay.
- Responsibility Level: Chefs who manage kitchen staff or oversee menu development typically earn more.
How To Become a Chef in Omaha
Those aspiring to become Chefs in Omaha should consider the following steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Programs like the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive hands-on training in modern kitchens.
- Advance Your Skills: The Institute for the Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College offers advanced education emphasizing practical and theoretical culinary knowledge.
- Obtain Certifications: Credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation boost employability.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles to build foundational skills and progress upwards.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Omaha
Major employers seeking Chefs in Omaha include:
- Hilton Omaha
- CHI Health
- Omaha Country Club
- Marriott Omaha Downtown
- Mutual of Omaha
Establishments That Chefs in Omaha Work At
Chefs in Omaha typically work in a variety of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest salaries due to elevated skill requirements and clientele.
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Provide stable employment with moderate wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer competitive pay and benefits.
- Catering Services and Country Clubs: These often allow for diverse cooking responsibilities and can offer higher pay especially in upscale environments.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence salary.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Omaha for Chefs
If you are interested in roles similar to Chef, you might also explore these related careers.
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, all involving leadership and culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Omaha
Chefs in Omaha should familiarize themselves with local labor regulations and tax requirements to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Visit the Nebraska Department of Labor website for information on employment laws, wage standards, and workforce resources.
- For federal tax guidelines and employer responsibilities, consult the Internal Revenue Service website.