Head Chef Salary in Berwyn, IL
Head Chefs in Berwyn, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $30.72 per hour, which translates to about $1,228.80 per week, $5,324.80 per month, and $63,897.60 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Berwyn is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for careers in culinary leadership and kitchen management in the area.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Berwyn, IL?
The salary of a Head Chef in Berwyn varies with experience and responsibility. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.31 | $892.40 | $3,866.27 | $46,435.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.72 | $1,228.80 | $5,324.80 | $63,897.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.37 | $1,694.80 | $7,314.27 | $87,929.60 |
Do Head Chefs in Berwyn Earn Tips?
Typically, Head Chefs do not earn tips as their role focuses on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation generally comes from their base salary and benefits.
Head Chef Salary in Berwyn vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $30.72 per hour, or about $63,897.60 annually.
The average salary for Head Chefs in Berwyn matches the national average, suggesting that local salaries are competitive within the wider U.S. culinary market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Berwyn for Head Chefs
Nearby districts in and around Berwyn offer competitive pay for Head Chefs:
- Downtown Berwyn: $32.50 per hour
- Depot District: $31.80 per hour
Those willing to work in Downtown Berwyn often find slightly higher wages reflecting the area's demand for skilled culinary leaders.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Berwyn?
The salary of a Head Chef in Berwyn can be influenced by multiple key factors:
- Experience and Culinary Expertise: More years of experience and strong culinary skills typically lead to higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues tend to offer better salaries than casual eateries.
- Leadership and Management Skills: Ability to effectively manage kitchen staff and operations improves salary prospects.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary degrees or certifications enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Work Hours: Working nights or weekends may come with bonuses or premium pay.
How To Become a Head Chef in Berwyn
Becoming a Head Chef involves a combination of education, experience, and certification:
- Complete a Culinary Program: Institutions like Kendall College Culinary Arts Program and Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute in Chicago provide solid culinary foundations.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Manager Certification is essential for managing kitchen safety compliance.
- Advance Your Skills and Leadership: Pursuing the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential can demonstrate advanced expertise and leadership ability.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Berwyn
Several notable establishments in Berwyn offer opportunities for Head Chefs:
- Autre Monde Café & Spirits
- Lavergne's Tavern
- Capri Ristorante
Establishments That Head Chefs in Berwyn Work At
Head Chefs typically find employment in diverse types of establishments, influencing their salary prospects:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues demand high skill levels and generally pay the best wages.
- Casual Dining: Moderate pay reflecting a balance of culinary complexity and customer volume.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide steady work with good benefits and competitive pay.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Salary can fluctuate based on event frequency and scale.
The diversity of these workplaces allows Head Chefs to select roles aligning with their skills and salary expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Berwyn for Head Chefs
If you're exploring careers related to Head Chef, here are similar roles to consider:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share many management and culinary responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Berwyn
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Head Chefs in Berwyn.
- Discover Illinois employment laws at the Illinois Department of Employment Security website.
- Federal labor regulations can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For city-specific information, visit the City of Berwyn official website.