Chef Salary in Skokie, IL
Chefs in Skokie, IL, in 2026, earn approximately $18.03 per hour, which translates to about $721.20 per week, $3,125.20 per month, and $37,502.40 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Skokie is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement in the culinary sector within this region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Skokie, IL?
The salary of a Chef in Skokie can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment. Here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.33 | $613.20 | $2,642.80 | $31,886.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.03 | $721.20 | $3,125.20 | $37,502.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.20 | $848.00 | $3,673.33 | $44,096.00 |
Do Chefs in Skokie Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves preparing food behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income is mainly derived from their salary or hourly wage.
Chef Salary in Skokie vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $18.03 per hour, which corresponds to about $37,502.40 per year.
Chefs in Skokie earn salaries that are right in line with the national average, indicating that the local market pays competitively relative to the rest of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Skokie for Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different salary rates for Chefs:
- Downtown Skokie: $19.50 per hour
- Devonshire: $18.75 per hour
Chefs working in Downtown Skokie tend to earn higher pay, reflecting the demand and potentially higher cost of living or establishment prestige in that area.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Skokie?
Several factors can significantly affect the salary of a Chef in Skokie:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Chefs with specialized cooking techniques or leadership skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries vary between casual dining, upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies, with fine dining venues often paying more.
- Location: Chefs working in higher-paying neighborhoods or busier districts usually see increased wages.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary degrees or certifications can boost a Chef’s earning potential.
- Reputation and Network: Chefs known for innovation or those with strong professional networks may secure better-paying positions.
How To Become a Chef in Skokie
To pursue a career as a Chef in Skokie, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program and the Triton College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in cooking techniques and industry knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to ensure adherence to health standards.
- Advance with Professional Certifications: Achieving credentials like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) designation from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates expertise and leadership capability.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Begin as a line cook or kitchen assistant to build practical skills and understand kitchen operations.
- Network and Build a Portfolio: Participating in culinary events and competitions can help create valuable connections.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Skokie
Several prominent employers in Skokie are frequently hiring Chefs:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Red Robin
- Uncle Julio's
- Darden Restaurants
Establishments That Chefs in Skokie Work At
Chefs in Skokie may find jobs in various establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These may offer steady wages with opportunities to refine skills across diverse menus.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While the pay might be somewhat lower here, the work is often faster-paced and focused on efficiency.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually provide the highest salaries and require advanced culinary skills and creativity.
- Hotels and Resorts: Chefs here might benefit from larger teams and more complex menus, often with competitive pay.
The type of establishment can heavily impact a Chef’s salary, with upscale and high-end venues generally providing more lucrative compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Skokie for Chefs
If you are interested in fields related to the Chef position, consider exploring these similar careers:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, which share some skills and knowledge areas with the Chef role and have diverse salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Skokie
Chefs should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and local labor laws and taxation policies to ensure compliance and understand their rights and responsibilities.
- For federal labor laws and employment standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Illinois offers resources on employment services and local labor laws at IDES Illinois.
- Skokie’s local government information on regulations and services can be found on the Village of Skokie official website.