Head Chef Salary in Billings, MT
Head Chefs in Billings, MT, in 2026, earn approximately $25.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,000.00 per week, $4,333.33 per month, and $52,000.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Billings is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities and a healthy job market in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Billings, MT?
The salary of a Head Chef in Billings can vary based on experience and establishment, but here’s a breakdown of typical pay levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $46.00 | $1,840.00 | $7,933.33 | $95,680.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Billings Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips because their role is predominantly focused on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes, rather than direct customer service.
Head Chef Salary in Billings vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn about $27.00 per hour or roughly $56,160.00 per year.
In comparison, Head Chefs in Billings earn slightly less at $25.00 per hour and $52,000.00 annually, which may be influenced by regional cost of living and market demand differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Billings for Head Chefs
Nearby locations with higher pay for Head Chefs include:
- Downtown: $30.00 per hour
- West End: $28.00 per hour
These areas tend to offer more competitive salaries, possibly due to a concentration of upscale dining venues and higher living expenses.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Billings?
Several important factors influence a Head Chef’s salary in Billings:
- Experience and culinary skill level: Seasoned chefs with extensive expertise command higher salaries.
- Type of establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels typically pay more than casual dining spots.
- Management responsibilities: Head Chefs who handle larger teams or multiple kitchen operations often earn more.
- Certifications and education: Having certifications like ServSafe or a Certified Executive Chef designation can boost earning potential.
- Local economic conditions: The overall demand for culinary professionals and regional cost of living play a role.
How To Become a Head Chef in Billings
To pursue a career as a Head Chef in Billings, consider several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Programs like the Missoula College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning skills.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Certification is widely recognized and essential for understanding food safety requirements.
- Pursue advanced culinary credentials: Achieving the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification demonstrates professional capability and leadership.
- Gain hands-on experience: Work in various kitchen stations to develop culinary skills and advance to leadership roles.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Billings
Billings offers opportunities for Head Chefs at prominent establishments such as:
- The Montana Club Restaurant
- The Fieldhouse
- Northern Hotel
Establishments That Head Chefs in Billings Work At
Head Chefs typically work in a range of dining environments including:
- Fine dining restaurants: These venues often provide the highest salaries due to demanding culinary standards and clientele expectations.
- Hotels and resorts: Larger establishments may offer stable salaries with additional benefits.
- Casual dining and fast casual restaurants: These settings generally pay less but offer valuable experience.
- Catering companies and private clubs: Specialized catering operations and exclusive clubs can influence salary positively based on scale and clientele.
The type and prestige of the establishment strongly impact salary levels for Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Billings for Head Chefs
If you are considering careers similar to Head Chef, the following related roles might interest you:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager roles, which share overlapping skills and offer varied progression opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Billings
Head Chefs in Billings should stay informed about Montana labor laws and federal tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Consult the Montana Department of Labor and Industry for state-specific employment standards and regulations.
- Refer to the Internal Revenue Service for federal tax guidelines and employer responsibilities.