Head Chef Salary in Dayton, OH
Head Chefs in Dayton, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $26.15 per hour, which translates to about $1,046.00 per week, $4,532.67 per month, and $54,392.00 per year.
The job demand for Head Chefs is looking up with a positive growth rate of 5% per year, indicating healthy opportunities for culinary professionals in Dayton and the surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Dayton, OH?
The salary of a Head Chef in Dayton varies across experience levels, with entry-level to top earners showing a wide range of pay scales depending on skill and establishment.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.01 | $480.40 | $2,082.67 | $25,000.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.43 | $697.20 | $3,014.80 | $36,278.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.18 | $1,127.20 | $4,876.53 | $58,670.40 |
Do Head Chefs in Dayton Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work mainly focuses on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Their earnings rely primarily on salary rather than gratuities.
Head Chef Salary in Dayton vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of about $25.96 per hour, which equates to around $53,996.80 per year.
In Dayton, OH, Head Chefs earn slightly above the national average at $26.15 per hour and $54,392.00 annually, reflecting the local market demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Dayton for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer different salary levels for Head Chefs:
- Downtown Dayton: $27.50 per hour
- Oakwood: $26.80 per hour
Head Chefs working in Downtown Dayton can expect the highest pay among these local options, followed closely by Oakwood.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Dayton?
Several important factors influence the salary of a Head Chef in Dayton:
- Experience and Culinary Skill: More experienced Head Chefs with refined culinary expertise command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay better than casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Management Responsibilities: Those overseeing large kitchen staffs and complex operations generally earn more.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary degrees and certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can enhance earning potential.
- Local Economic Factors: Salaries adjust according to Dayton’s local economy and living costs.
How To Become a Head Chef in Dayton
To become a Head Chef in Dayton, a combination of education, certification, and experience is essential.
Many start with formal education such as the Sinclair Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers an Associate of Applied Science degree focused on Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts, including menu planning and food preparation courses.
The University of Dayton Dietetics Program also provides relevant education covering nutrition and culinary skills, supporting a strong foundation.
Acquiring important certifications is a critical step, particularly the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, which is nationally recognized and often required for Head Chefs.
Additional advanced certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) from the American Culinary Federation recognize high competence in culinary arts and kitchen leadership.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Dayton
Some of the leading employers looking for Head Chefs in Dayton include:
- Dorothy Lane Market
- Marriott International
- Three Birds
- Sueno
- Rusty Bucket Restaurant & Tavern
Establishments That Head Chefs in Dayton Work At
Head Chefs in Dayton commonly work in a diverse range of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer the highest salaries and demand exquisite culinary skills and management capabilities.
- Casual Dining: These establishments provide steady income and opportunities but generally offer moderate pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Head Chefs in these venues often receive competitive compensation and benefits.
- Institutional Catering and Large-Scale Operations: Salaries vary depending on scale but often include managerial responsibilities.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly influence salary differences ensuring diverse opportunities for Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Dayton for Head Chefs
If you're exploring career paths related to Head Chef, consider these related positions that involve overlapping skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Dayton
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is critical for Head Chefs in Dayton to ensure proper employment practices and compliance.
- Federal labor regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor.
- For state-specific employment laws and services, visit the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
- Local employment, tax and business regulations are available on the City of Dayton official website.