Chef Salary in Salt Lake City, UT
Chefs in Salt Lake City, UT, in 2025, earn approximately $18.35 per hour, which translates to about $734.00 per week, $3,180.67 per month, and $38,168.00 per year.
The job demand for Chefs in Salt Lake City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Salt Lake City, UT?
The salary of a Chef in Salt Lake City can vary depending on experience and employer type. Below is an overview of what Chefs typically earn at different stages of their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.68 | $587.20 | $2,540.53 | $31,270.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.35 | $734.00 | $3,180.67 | $38,168.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.95 | $918.00 | $3,957.00 | $47,736.00 |
Do Chefs in Salt Lake City Earn Tips?
Chefs in Salt Lake City typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily back-of-house. While some high-end chefs working in fine dining establishments might receive bonuses or gratuities indirectly, tipping is not a standard part of their compensation.
Chef Salary in Salt Lake City vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.52 per hour and approximately $40,601.60 per year.
Compared to this, Chefs in Salt Lake City earn slightly less, with an hourly average of $18.35 and annual earnings around $38,168. This difference reflects regional cost of living and demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salt Lake City for Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive pay for Chefs:
- Downtown: $20.50 per hour
- Sugar House: $21.00 per hour
Chefs working in these neighborhoods can expect higher wages than the Salt Lake City average, often due to upscale dining venues and increased customer demand.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Salt Lake City?
Several factors can impact how much a Chef earns in Salt Lake City:
- Experience and Skill Level: Chefs with more years of experience and specialized culinary skills usually command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts tends to offer better salaries than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary training and certifications such as ServSafe or Certified Executive Chef can enhance earning potential.
- Job Role and Responsibilities: Executive Chefs or Head Chefs who manage kitchen staff earn more than line cooks or prep chefs.
- Shift and Hours: Night shifts or holiday work may offer higher pay through shift differentials or overtime.
How To Become a Chef in Salt Lake City
To build a career as a Chef in Salt Lake City, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like Salt Lake Community College Culinary Arts Program and Park City Culinary Institute offer comprehensive training and practical kitchen experience.
- Gain Food Safety Certifications: Completing the ServSafe Certification ensures compliance with food safety standards, which employers highly value.
- Advance with Professional Credentials: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certificate demonstrates leadership and expertise for supervisory roles.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in various kitchen roles, from commis chef to sous chef, helps develop a broad skill set.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Salt Lake City
Some prominent employers seeking skilled Chefs in Salt Lake City include:
- The Grand America Hotel
- Snowbird Resort
- Sundance Mountain Resort
Establishments That Chefs in Salt Lake City Work At
Chefs in Salt Lake City work in a diverse array of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Generally offer the highest salary and opportunity for creativity, with greater responsibility.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide stable employment with benefits; pay can vary by prestige of the property.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These establishments offer opportunities for gaining experience, though typically at lower wages.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: These offer unique challenges and can sometimes include contracted higher pay based on events.
The type and scale of the establishment directly influence Chef salary and career growth potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salt Lake City for Chef
Several roles closely related to Chef might be of interest if you’re exploring similar career paths:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager — roles that share culinary leadership and management responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Salt Lake City
Chefs should stay informed about employment laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and comply with legal requirements.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for comprehensive guidance on labor standards.
- The State of Utah's Department of Workforce Services website provides specific state labor rules, unemployment benefits, and job resources.
- For local ordinances and regulations, see the Official website of Salt Lake City government.