Chef Salary in Tallahassee, FL
Chefs in Tallahassee, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job market for Chefs in Tallahassee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Tallahassee, FL?
The salary of a Chef in Tallahassee 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) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Chefs in Tallahassee Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips since they work primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their income is generally based on their hourly wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Chef Salary in Tallahassee vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Tallahassee earn slightly less per hour at $13.90 and make about $28,912 annually.
This difference may be influenced by the cost of living and the local demand for culinary professionals in Tallahassee.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tallahassee for Chefs
When considering nearby areas, Chef salaries show some variation:
- Midtown: $15.50 per hour
- Downtown: $17.60 per hour
Chefs working in Downtown may find higher pay rates compared to Midtown and Tallahassee itself, reflecting different market dynamics and clientele.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Tallahassee?
Several factors can influence the earning potential of a Chef in Tallahassee:
- Experience and Skill Level: Chefs with advanced techniques and extensive kitchen management experience tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels often comes with better pay than casual dining or fast food.
- Specialization: Expertise in specific culinary types such as French, Italian, or Pastry can impact salary.
- Certifications and Education: Completing culinary education programs and certifications can enhance salary prospects.
- Shift and Work Hours: Night shifts or holiday work may offer additional compensation.
How To Become a Chef in Tallahassee
To pursue a career as a Chef in Tallahassee, consider these important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Institutions like Lively Technical College offer comprehensive Culinary Arts programs that develop essential skills for chefs.
- Advance Your Knowledge: The Hospitality and Tourism Management program at Florida State University provides a bachelor's degree that includes culinary management aspects.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are critical for understanding and implementing food safety standards.
- Pursue Professional Certifications: Consider earning the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate competency and enhance your resume.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Starting as a kitchen assistant or line cook helps to build valuable hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Tallahassee
Some prominent employers in Tallahassee looking for skilled Chefs include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Chefs in Tallahassee Work At
Chefs in Tallahassee find employment in a variety of culinary settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work and moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Although pay may be lower, these venues offer fast-paced environments ideal for skill development.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically offer the highest salaries but demand advanced culinary skills and experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually provide competitive pay and benefits, catering to a variety of culinary specialties.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with fine dining and hotel kitchens generally offering the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tallahassee for Chef
If you are interested in jobs closely related to Chef, here are a few similar careers to consider:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Tallahassee
Chefs in Tallahassee should be aware of federal and state labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and manage their work effectively.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for information on federal labor regulations.
- For specific information on Florida employment laws, check Florida Department of Economic Opportunity.