Chef Salary in Tempe, AZ
Chefs in Tempe, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $24.38 per hour, translating to about $975.20 per week, $4,225.87 per month, and $50,710.40 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Tempe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Tempe, AZ?
The salary of a Chef in Tempe can vary depending on experience and the specific employer. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.41 | $816.40 | $3,533.53 | $42,397.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.38 | $975.20 | $4,225.87 | $50,710.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.12 | $1,164.80 | $5,032.53 | $60,569.60 |
Do Chefs in Tempe Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Most of their compensation comes from their salary or wage rather than gratuities.
Chef Salary in Tempe vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $24.38 per hour, which translates to about $50,710.40 per year.
Chefs in Tempe earn approximately the same as the national average both hourly and annually, reflecting competitive pay aligned with national standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tempe for Chefs
Nearby areas with notable Chef salaries include:
- Paradise Valley: $26.77 per hour
- Scottsdale: $21.25 per hour
Paradise Valley offers higher hourly pay compared to Tempe, while Scottsdale's wages are slightly lower.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Tempe?
Several factors significantly influence the salary a Chef can earn in Tempe:
- Experience and Skill Level: Seasoned Chefs with advanced culinary skills and leadership experience command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working in upscale or fine dining restaurants typically earn more than those in casual or fast-casual settings.
- Culinary Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Manager or Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can enhance salary potential.
- Specialization: Chefs specializing in niche cuisines or dietary preferences may find premium pay opportunities.
- Local Market Demand: The competitive food scene in Tempe also impacts pay scales.
How To Become a Chef in Tempe
Becoming a Chef in Tempe involves a combination of education, certification, and hands-on experience.
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like Arizona Culinary Institute offer comprehensive culinary arts programs focusing on classical and modern cooking techniques. Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program provides associate degrees and certificates with practical training.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning certifications such as ServSafe Food Manager Certification and Certified Executive Chef (CEC) qualifies individuals with essential knowledge in food safety and advanced culinary skills.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen positions like prep cook or line cook to build skills and progress.
- Continued Learning: Stay updated on cooking trends, nutrition, and kitchen management to enhance career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Tempe
Several prominent companies in Tempe regularly hire Chefs, including:
- Fox Restaurant Concepts
- M Culinary Concepts
- Sodexo
Establishments That Chefs in Tempe Work At
Chefs in Tempe find employment across various types of food service establishments, each impacting salary differently.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide the highest pay and opportunities for specialization.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally offer moderate salaries but can provide faster career progression.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically offer stable employment and competitive wages.
- Catering Companies: Can vary in pay depending on client base and event scale.
The prestige, clientele, and size of the establishment play important roles in shaping a Chef’s earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tempe for Chefs
If you are considering alternative or related career paths in the culinary and hospitality field, here are a few options:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, each offering unique responsibilities and salary ranges in the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Tempe
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Chefs working in Tempe.
- For state-specific employment rules and resources, visit the Official website of the State of Arizona.
- For federal labor laws and workplace regulations, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.