Head Chef Salary in Clovis, CA
Head Chefs in Clovis, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $34.64 per hour, which translates to about $1,385.60 per week, $6,004.27 per month, and $72,051.20 per year.
The job demand for Head Chefs in Clovis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities and career advancement in this culinary leadership role.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Clovis, CA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Clovis, CA, can vary based on experience and employer type. Below is an overview of earning potentials at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $31.42 | $1,256.80 | $5,449.33 | $65,353.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $34.64 | $1,385.60 | $6,004.27 | $72,051.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.17 | $1,526.80 | $6,606.93 | $79,393.60 |
Do Head Chefs in Clovis Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily focused on food preparation and kitchen management rather than direct customer service. Their compensation relies mainly on salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Head Chef Salary in Clovis vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of $34.64 per hour or about $72,051.20 per year.
The salary for Head Chefs in Clovis matches the national average, reflecting a competitive pay scale that aligns with the broader culinary industry standards across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clovis for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Head Chefs:
- Fresno, CA: $35.50 per hour
- Visalia, CA: $36.00 per hour
Those willing to commute might find better earnings in these neighboring regions, though Clovis remains a good market for Head Chef positions.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Clovis?
Several key factors can affect how much a Head Chef earns in Clovis, including:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced chefs with advanced culinary techniques or leadership skills generally command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often offer better pay compared to casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Size and Reputation of the Business: Larger or well-known establishments may provide higher salaries and benefits.
- Additional Certifications: Certifications like Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can enhance earning potential.
- Work Hours and Responsibilities: Managing larger teams or multiple kitchen stations can influence compensation.
How To Become a Head Chef in Clovis
Becoming a Head Chef in Clovis involves several educational and practical steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the 70-week Culinary Arts Professional (AOS) or the 40-week Culinary Arts Diploma from the Institute of Technology in Clovis provide essential culinary training.
- Earn Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Manager Certification ensure knowledge in food safety, while the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification demonstrates advanced culinary and managerial capabilities.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Starting in lower kitchen roles such as Line Cook or Sous Chef helps build the skills needed to advance to a Head Chef position.
- Develop Leadership Abilities: Experience managing kitchen staff and operations is crucial.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Clovis
Prominent employers seeking Head Chefs in Clovis include:
- Compass Group
- Thomas Cuisine
- Southern Hospitality Company
Establishments That Head Chefs in Clovis Work At
Head Chefs work in diverse establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher prestige and complexity of dishes typically lead to better pay.
- Hotel Kitchens: Larger volume kitchens with varied menus can offer competitive salaries.
- Catering Services: Demand for event cooking can provide varied work and pay opportunities.
- Casual Dining and Fast Casual: More accessible but generally offer lower earnings than upscale venues.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary due to differences in operational scale, clientele, and culinary expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clovis for Head Chefs
Those interested in similar professions can explore roles that share culinary and leadership skills.
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions—each requiring culinary expertise and management skills, but varying in scope and responsibility.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Clovis
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Head Chefs in Clovis. Useful resources include:
- Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor, providing information on labor laws and regulations.
- California Department of Industrial Relations, offering resources on labor laws and workplace safety.
- City of Clovis official website, for local regulations and services.