Chef Salary in Saint-Paul, MN
Chefs in Saint-Paul, MN, in 2025, earn approximately $25.55 per hour, which translates to about $1,022.00 per week, $4,428.67 per month, and $53,144.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Saint-Paul is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary field within this region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Saint-Paul, MN?
The salary of a Chef in Saint-Paul 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) | $20.63 | $825.20 | $3,577.33 | $42,910.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.55 | $1,022.00 | $4,428.67 | $53,144.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.65 | $1,346.00 | $5,827.33 | $69,992.00 |
Do Chefs in Saint-Paul Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come mostly from salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Chef Salary in Saint-Paul vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $29.31 per hour, translating to about $60,964.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Saint-Paul earn slightly less, at about $25.55 per hour and $53,144.00 annually.
This difference may be influenced by regional cost of living and local demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Saint-Paul for Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Chefs:
- Downtown: $27.00 per hour
- Highland Park: $26.50 per hour
Chefs working in Downtown Saint-Paul tend to earn higher wages compared to those in other areas like Highland Park.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Saint-Paul?
Several factors contribute to the variation in salaries for Chefs in Saint-Paul:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Chefs with specialized culinary skills often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working in high-end restaurants or hotels may earn more than those in casual dining or fast food locations.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary education and certifications can improve job prospects and salary potential.
- Management Responsibilities: Chefs who take on supervisory or kitchen management roles often have increased earning potential.
- Work Schedule and Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays can sometimes come with higher wages or overtime benefits.
How To Become a Chef in Saint-Paul
If you aspire to become a Chef in Saint-Paul, here are some important steps to consider:
- Complete a Culinary Arts Program: Enroll in programs such as the Saint Paul College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management, or Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Minneapolis/St. Paul, which provides classical French culinary education with modern applications.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Food Manager Certification ensures knowledge of essential food safety practices required in Minnesota.
- Consider Professional Certification: Certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) recognize professional achievement and expertise in culinary arts, potentially enhancing career opportunities.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in kitchens at various levels to build skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Saint-Paul
Saint-Paul offers a variety of employment opportunities with notable employers seeking skilled Chefs, including:
- The Saint Paul Hotel
- Cossetta's
- Meritage
- The Lexington
- W.A. Frost & Company
Establishments That Chefs in Saint-Paul Work At
Chefs in Saint-Paul find employment in diverse types of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher wages and more creative culinary roles.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer steadier but generally lower salaries compared to fine dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide opportunities for larger-scale kitchen operations and sometimes higher pay.
- Catering Companies: Offer varied work environments and pay scales depending on client demands.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Chef's salary depending on clientele, prestige, and kitchen size.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Saint-Paul for Chef
If you are considering careers closely related to the Chef position, here are some notable roles:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Saint-Paul
Chefs should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements applicable in their region:
- State labor standards and workplace regulations can be found at the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (state website).
- Federal tax and employment law details are available at the Internal Revenue Service (federal website).
- Local employment resources and regulations can be accessed through the City of Saint Paul official website (local government).