Head Chef Salary in Des-Plaines, IL
Head Chefs in Des-Plaines, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $22.48 per hour, which translates to about $899.20 per week, $3,896.53 per month, and $46,758.40 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Des-Plaines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy expansion and increasing opportunities in the culinary sector within this region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Des-Plaines, IL?
The salary of a Head Chef in Des-Plaines varies depending on experience and establishment, but here is a breakdown across different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.45 | $818.00 | $3,531.33 | $42,536.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.11 | $1,164.40 | $5,033.07 | $60,492.80 |
Do Head Chefs in Des-Plaines Earn Tips?
Generally, Head Chefs do not earn tips directly since their role is mostly in the kitchen management and food preparation area. Their compensation is predominantly based on salary rather than tips.
Head Chef Salary in Des-Plaines vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $20.45 per hour, which translates to about $42,536 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Des-Plaines earn slightly more at approximately $22.48 per hour and $46,758.40 annually. This reflects the influence of local demand and cost of living on salaries.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des-Plaines for Head Chefs
Nearby areas present some attractive salary differences for Head Chefs:
- Rivers Casino: Approximately $55.00 per hour
- DO & CO: Approximately $33.65 per hour
These high-paying venues offer significant earning potential for Head Chefs willing to work nearby Des-Plaines.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Des-Plaines?
Several factors contribute to the variability in a Head Chef's earnings in Des-Plaines:
- Experience and Expertise: Years of culinary experience and specialized skills can significantly increase a Head Chef's salary.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end or large-scale restaurants, hotels, and casinos tend to offer better pay than smaller cafes or fast food places.
- Management Responsibilities: More managerial duties and oversight typically come with increased compensation.
- Certifications and Training: Possession of culinary certifications can enhance salary potential.
- Local Market Trends: Demand for skilled culinary professionals in Des-Plaines and surrounding areas also impacts pay scales.
How To Become a Head Chef in Des-Plaines
Becoming a Head Chef in Des-Plaines involves several educational and experiential steps to build the necessary skills.
- Attend Culinary Programs: Institutions like Elgin Community College offer certificate and associate degree programs in Culinary Arts and Chef Training, providing a solid foundation.
- Specialized Training: For pastry specialization or further expertise, schools such as the French Pastry School in Chicago offer focused vocational education.
- Obtain Professional Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe for food safety and the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential from the American Culinary Federation are highly regarded.
- Gain Experience: Working in various kitchen roles, starting from entry-level positions up to sous chef roles, helps develop the skills needed to become a Head Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Des-Plaines
Prominent employers in Des-Plaines currently seeking skilled Head Chefs include:
- Rivers Casino
- DO & CO
- TouchPoint
- HMSHost
- LSG Sky Chefs
Establishments That Head Chefs in Des-Plaines Work At
Head Chefs commonly work in a variety of culinary establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer higher salaries due to intricate menus and elevated service expectations.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Provide more entry-level chef roles, typically with moderate pay.
- Hotels and Casinos: These venues usually have larger kitchens and staff, paying higher wages for management positions.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Demand flexibility and skilled leadership, affecting pay scales.
The type and prestige of the establishment have a strong influence on salary, with luxury and high-volume venues usually compensating more generously.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des-Plaines for Head Chefs
If you're exploring career options related to the Head Chef role, consider similar positions that require culinary expertise and leadership skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Des-Plaines
Head Chefs should be familiar with the following resources to understand relevant labor laws and tax obligations:
- Federal labor laws and regulations are accessible through the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific to Illinois employment standards, check the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
- Local employment and regulatory information for Des-Plaines can be found on the city's official site at City of Des Plaines website.