Chef Salary in Tyler, TX
Chefs in Tyler, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.51 per hour, which translates to about $580.40 per week, $2,515.07 per month, and $30,180.80 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Tyler is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary job market.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Tyler, TX?
The salary of a Chef in Tyler can vary depending on experience and the type of employer, but generally, earnings are spread across entry-level to top-earner brackets as shown below.
| 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Chefs in Tyler Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips since they usually work behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation primarily comes from their wages or salary rather than customer gratuities.
Chef Salary in Tyler vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, or roughly $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Chefs in Tyler earn close to the national average, with an hourly rate of $14.51 and annual earnings around $30,180.80. This indicates salary levels in Tyler are aligned with nationwide figures.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tyler for Chefs
Looking at the nearby areas around Tyler, pay for Chefs varies as follows:
- Downtown Tyler: $15.50 per hour
- South Tyler: $17.60 per hour
Chefs working in South Tyler benefit from higher pay rates compared to other parts of the city, reflecting local demand and establishment types.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Tyler?
Several important factors impact how much a Chef can earn in Tyler:
- Experience Level: Chefs with advanced culinary skills and more years in the kitchen command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to pay more than casual diners or fast food kitchens.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in particular cuisines or pastry work can enhance earning potential.
- Certifications: Holding certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can boost credibility and pay.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts may come with premium wages in some places.
How To Become a Chef in Tyler
To start and advance a career as a Chef in Tyler, consider the following steps to improve your qualifications:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Tyler Junior College and Kilgore College offer comprehensive Culinary Arts programs with hands-on training in cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of proper sanitation and safety practices.
- Gain Professional Certifications: Earning credentials like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) Certification from the American Culinary Federation can validate skills and open doors.
- Develop Practical Experience: Working in kitchens as a line cook or assistant helps build necessary skills and a good culinary foundation.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Tyler
Several notable employers in Tyler commonly seek qualified Chefs, including:
- Brookshire Grocery Company
- Stanley's Famous Pit Bar-B-Q
- The Grove Kitchen & Gardens
Establishments That Chefs in Tyler Work At
Chefs in Tyler find work across a variety of establishments, each with different salary implications:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher wages due to elevated culinary standards and clientele expectations.
- Casual Dining and Fast Casual: Moderate pay reflecting volume and customer base.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive pay along with benefits.
- Institutional Catering and Banquets: Salary can vary widely depending on scale and contract terms.
The prestige and scale of the establishment greatly influence Chef salaries, with fine dining venues generally offering the best pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tyler for Chefs
If you’re interested in roles related to Chef positions, consider these similar careers in the hospitality industry:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, which offer distinct roles and earning potentials within culinary and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Tyler
Chefs in Tyler should be informed about the relevant labor laws and tax regulations:
- Visit the Texas government website to learn about state labor laws, wage requirements, and other employment rights.
- For federal labor regulations and workplace standards, check the U.S. Department of Labor site.