Head Chef Salary in Collingswood, NJ
Head Chefs in Collingswood, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $48.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,920.00 per week, $8,320.00 per month, and $99,840.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Collingswood is growing positively with a 6.9% increase per year, showing promising career opportunities and industry expansion for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Collingswood, NJ?
The salary of a Head Chef in Collingswood varies by experience, skill level, and the establishment type, but the following table provides a clear breakdown of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $42.00 | $1,680.00 | $7,280.00 | $87,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $48.00 | $1,920.00 | $8,320.00 | $99,840.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $55.00 | $2,200.00 | $9,533.33 | $114,400.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Collingswood Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is mainly through salary or hourly wages.
Head Chef Salary in Collingswood, NJ vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average about $40.00 per hour and approximately $83,200 annually.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Collingswood earn substantially more, with a higher hourly rate of $48.00 and yearly earnings of $99,840.00. This reflects regional industry demand and local living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Collingswood for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly higher salaries for Head Chefs, which might interest those willing to commute:
- Rochelle Park: $55.00 per hour
- Rockaway: $54.00 per hour
Commuting to Rochelle Park or Rockaway could lead to enhanced earnings due to the higher pay rates in those cities.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Collingswood?
The salary for a Head Chef in Collingswood is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced chefs with advanced culinary techniques command higher wages.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically offer more competitive pay compared to small cafes or casual eateries.
- Management Responsibilities: Head Chefs with responsibilities including staff supervision, budgeting, and menu creation often earn more.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with thriving food scenes and higher restaurant density tend to offer better salary packages.
- Certifications: Credentials like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification can boost salary prospects significantly.
How To Become a Head Chef in Collingswood
Becoming a Head Chef requires both skill development and culinary education. Here are some steps to help you get started:
- Get a Culinary Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts and Sciences AAS at County College of Morris and the Academy of Culinary Arts at Atlantic Cape Community College offer valuable hands-on learning and accredited degrees suitable for aspiring chefs.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of safe food handling practices, an essential requirement in professional kitchens.
- Gain Work Experience: Starting as a line cook or sous chef helps accumulate the kitchen experience necessary to progress to Head Chef.
- Earn Chef Certifications: Pursuing the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential can enhance your career and earning potential.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Collingswood
Collingswood’s culinary scene includes several employers frequently seeking qualified Head Chefs, such as:
- Haddon Culinary
- The Kitchen Consigliere
- Zeppoli
- Sagami
- Bistro di Marino
Establishments That Head Chefs in Collingswood Work At
Head Chefs commonly find employment across a variety of dining establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often providing the highest salaries due to upscale cuisine and extensive menus.
- Hotel Kitchens: These can offer stable and competitive pay with potential benefits.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Compensation might be lower, but opportunities for growth exist.
- Catering Companies: These roles vary but can offer flexible schedules.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary, with luxury and high-volume venues generating higher pay levels.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Collingswood for Head Chefs
Exploring closely related careers can help diversify options in the hospitality field:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share related skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Collingswood
Head Chefs should stay informed about labor regulations and tax responsibilities at various government levels:
- For federal labor laws and employment rights, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific regulations and workforce resources can be found on the New Jersey Department of Labor website.
- Local ordinances and community resources are available via the Collingswood, NJ government website.