Head Chef Salary in Denver, CO
Head Chefs in Denver, CO, earn approximately $36.78 per hour, equaling about $1,471.20 per week, $6,375.20 per month, and $76,502.40 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Denver is increasing steadily at around 6% per year, indicating a growing need for skilled culinary leaders and managers in the city's food service sector.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Denver, CO?
The salary of a Head Chef in Denver varies depending on experience and the establishment they work for. Here is a breakdown of typical pay across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $31.25 | $1,250.00 | $5,416.67 | $65,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $36.78 | $1,471.20 | $6,375.20 | $76,502.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.84 | $1,713.60 | $7,367.47 | $88,924.80 |
Do Head Chefs in Denver Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips, as their role is more focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is primarily salary-based.
Head Chef Salary in Denver vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $32.69 and an annual salary of approximately $67,995.20.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Denver earn significantly more, at an hourly rate of $36.78 and an annual salary of $76,502.40, reflecting Denver's competitive culinary market and higher local demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denver for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay levels for Head Chefs:
- Winter Park: $37.09 per hour
- Aspen: $36.69 per hour
These locations may present additional benefits or lifestyle considerations, but salaries closely align with Denver’s competitive rates.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Denver?
The salary of a Head Chef is influenced by several key factors that affect earning potential:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Head Chefs with advanced culinary skills generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts tend to offer better salaries than casual or fast-casual dining venues.
- Managerial Responsibilities: Head Chefs who oversee larger teams or multiple kitchen operations may earn more due to increased responsibility.
- Location Within the Denver Area: Salaries can vary slightly depending on proximity to urban centers or high-end culinary districts.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications, such as the Certified Executive Chef (CEC), can enhance salary prospects.
How To Become a Head Chef in Denver
To pursue a career as a Head Chef in Denver, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Culinary Arts Certificate at MSU Denver, which provides essential advanced culinary skills including international cooking and food science.
- Earn Professional Certifications: The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is often required to ensure knowledge of food safety.
- Gain Relevant Experience: Work your way up through kitchen roles, gaining experience in line cooking, kitchen supervision, and management.
- Advanced Training: Consider specialized schooling from institutions such as the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, which offers diplomas and associate degrees emphasizing classical and modern culinary techniques.
- Achieve Certification: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate high culinary competence.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Denver
Several prominent Denver restaurants and venues are known to hire skilled Head Chefs:
- Fruition Restaurant
- Mercantile Dining & Provision
- Safta
- The Wolf's Tailor
- Bar Dough
Establishments That Head Chefs in Denver Work At
Head Chefs commonly work in a variety of dining establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offering the highest salaries due to complex menu offerings and prestigious clientele.
- Upscale Casual Restaurants: These establishments provide competitive pay and opportunities for creativity.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues may pay premium salaries and provide benefits due to scale and prestige.
- Private Clubs and Catering Companies: Offering specialized culinary services where salary may depend on the exclusivity and budget of the client base.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with fine dining and luxury hotels generally rewarding higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denver for Head Chefs
If you're interested in career options related to Head Chefs, consider the following roles that often overlap in skills and responsibilities:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, roles that share leadership and culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Denver
Head Chefs in Denver should be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws to ensure compliance and manage their employment rights effectively.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment provides state-specific employment laws and resources.
- Information about local employment regulations can be found at the City and County of Denver Official Website.