Chef Salary in Pearl City, HI
Chefs in Pearl City, HI, in 2026, earn approximately $34.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,380.00 per week, $5,980.00 per month, and $71,760.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Pearl City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Pearl City, HI?
The salary of a Chef in Pearl City, HI can vary depending on experience and workplace factors. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $34.50 | $1,380.00 | $5,980.00 | $71,760.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $40.00 | $1,600.00 | $6,933.33 | $83,200.00 |
Do Chefs in Pearl City Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips directly since they work in the kitchen rather than serving customers. However, in some establishments, Chefs might receive bonuses or profit-sharing based on restaurant performance.
Chef Salary in Pearl City vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $25.00 per hour, which is about $52,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Pearl City earn a higher hourly wage and annual salary, highlighting the area’s higher living costs and demand for skilled culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pearl City for Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Chefs:
- Area 1: $35.00 per hour
- Area 2: $36.50 per hour
These neighboring regions may provide slightly better pay, making them attractive for Chefs considering relocation or commuting options.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Pearl City?
Several key factors affect how much a Chef can earn in Pearl City:
- Experience and Expertise: Experienced Chefs, especially those skilled in specialized cuisines or management, command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels often pay more compared to casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Responsibilities: Chefs with leadership roles like Executive Chef or Sous Chef typically earn more than Commis Chefs or line cooks.
- Shift Hours: Working nights, weekends, or holidays may include premium pay.
How To Become a Chef in Pearl City
Starting a career as a Chef in Pearl City involves a combination of education, training, and certifications:
- Culinary Education: Programs such as the Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training that blends hands-on experience with theory.
- Specialized Training: Nearby, Kapiolani Community College provides respected Culinary Arts Programs with various specializations.
- Certifications: Earning certifications like the ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of food safety standards required by many employers.
- Additional Licenses: For chefs working in establishments serving alcohol, Hawaii Liquor Commission Certification is necessary.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Pearl City
Several prominent employers in Pearl City offer opportunities for skilled Chefs:
- Zippy's
- L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
- Pearl City Tavern
Establishments That Chefs in Pearl City Work At
Chefs in Pearl City find work across a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering moderate pay and a steady flow of demand.
- Fast Casual Eateries: Typically pay less but provide fast-paced environments suitable for skill development.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Offer higher salaries reflecting elevated skill requirements and greater responsibility.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay competitive wages with benefits due to the scale and premium nature of service.
Each type of establishment offers varied salary potential based on clientele, prestige, and operational scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pearl City for Chefs
If you're exploring career paths related to being a Chef, here are some similar roles to consider:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which involve leadership and advanced culinary responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Pearl City
Chefs working in Pearl City should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations at both the federal and state levels to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For comprehensive information on labor laws and employment standards, visit the Federal Department of Labor website.
- Hawaii-specific labor regulations and resources are available at the State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.