Head Chef Salary in Buckeye, AZ
Head Chefs in Buckeye, AZ, in 2026, earn approximately $29.19 per hour, which translates to about $1,167.60 per week, $5,059.60 per month, and $60,715.20 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Buckeye is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary sector of the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Buckeye, AZ?
The salary of a Head Chef in Buckeye depends on experience and employer, but the following breakdown provides insight across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.26 | $890.40 | $3,852.40 | $46,300.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.19 | $1,167.60 | $5,059.60 | $60,715.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.28 | $1,531.20 | $6,619.20 | $79,622.40 |
Do Head Chefs in Buckeye Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in kitchen management and culinary creation. Their compensation mainly consists of their salary.
Head Chef Salary in Buckeye, AZ vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of about $30.74 per hour, translating to approximately $63,939.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Buckeye earn slightly less hourly at $29.19 per hour, resulting in an annual salary somewhat below the national figure. Factors such as local cost of living and demand influence this difference.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Buckeye for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer higher salaries for Head Chefs, including:
- Downtown Buckeye: $30.50 per hour
- Verrado: $32.00 per hour
These areas may offer better pay due to their location and type of dining establishments, attracting experienced culinary professionals.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Buckeye?
Several factors influence a Head Chef’s salary in Buckeye:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Head Chefs with advanced culinary skills and leadership abilities command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts typically offer better pay compared to smaller or casual dining venues.
- Certifications: Having professional certifications such as ServSafe Food Manager Certification or Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can boost earning potential.
- Management Responsibilities: Overseeing larger teams or multiple kitchen operations often leads to higher compensation.
- Local Market Demand: Regional economic factors and competition impact salary levels.
How To Become a Head Chef in Buckeye, AZ
Becoming a Head Chef in Buckeye involves several key steps to develop the necessary culinary expertise and leadership skills.
- Formal Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Estrella Mountain Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Arizona Culinary Institute, which offer comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Manager Certification ensure compliance with safety standards essential for head chef roles.
- Advance Culinary Skills: Pursue certifications such as Certified Executive Chef (CEC) for validation of advanced culinary and management skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work your way up through kitchen roles like line cook, sous chef, and kitchen supervisor to develop leadership and operational expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Buckeye
Several prominent employers in Buckeye regularly seek talented Head Chefs, including:
- Buckeye Country Club
- Desert Sky Resort
- Sunset Bistro
Establishments That Head Chefs in Buckeye Work At
Head Chefs typically find employment across diverse types of dining establishments in Buckeye:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide the highest salaries due to the demand for exceptional culinary skills and presentation.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations may offer attractive pay and benefits, along with varied culinary challenges.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: May provide fewer supervisory responsibilities and comparatively lower pay.
- Country Clubs and Private Dining: These venues often pay competitively and require specialized culinary knowledge to satisfy discerning clientele.
The type of establishment strongly affects salary, with premium venues rewarding more experienced Head Chefs }
Related Hospitality Jobs in Buckeye for Head Chefs
If you’re interested in careers similar to Head Chef, consider these related positions:
These roles include Executive Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager, which all involve leadership and advanced culinary responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Buckeye
Head Chefs should be familiar with the local and federal labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment.
- Refer to the Arizona Department of Health Services for state health regulations and kitchen safety standards.
- The Arizona Commerce Authority provides business resources and employment support relevant to hospitality workers.
- Federal labor laws, minimum wage, and workplace standards are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.