Head Chef Salary in Detroit, MI
Head Chefs in Detroit, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $30.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,200.00 per week, $5,200.00 per month, and $62,400.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Detroit is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in this city.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Detroit, MI?
The salary of a Head Chef in Detroit varies based on experience, skills, and establishment. Here is a breakdown of average earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,066.67 | $72,800.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Detroit Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their roles are primarily in the kitchen managing food preparation and kitchen staff. Their compensation generally comes from their salary rather than gratuities.
Head Chef Salary in Detroit vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $30.00, which is aligned with the average Head Chef wage in Detroit.
This means Head Chefs in Detroit earn roughly the same as the national average, with an annual salary around $62,400.00, suggesting competitive pay given the local cost of living and culinary market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Detroit for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Head Chefs:
- Downtown Detroit: $32.00 per hour
- Midtown Detroit: $31.00 per hour
Those seeking higher pay within the Detroit metro area may consider these neighborhoods, known for their vibrant restaurant scenes and upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Detroit?
Several factors affect how much a Head Chef can earn in Detroit:
- Experience and Culinary Expertise: More experienced Head Chefs with refined culinary skills and menu development capabilities command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and fine dining venues typically offer better pay compared to casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Size of the Kitchen Team: Salary may increase with responsibility for larger kitchen staff and more complex operations.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift and Work Hours: Head Chefs working late nights or weekends may receive shift differentials or bonuses.
How To Become a Head Chef in Detroit
To become a Head Chef in Detroit, several pathways and qualifications can help:
- Culinary Education Programs: Local institutions such as Detroit Institute of Gastronomy offer hands-on apprenticeship programs and certificates that blend coursework with practical experience.
- Schoolcraft College – Culinary Arts Department: Located close by in Livonia, offers certificates and associate degrees with state-of-the-art facilities and partnerships with professional chefs to develop skills.
- Obtain Industry Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe are essential for food safety compliance, and the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) recognition from the American Culinary Federation acknowledges high culinary and managerial expertise.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Building experience through roles such as line cook, sous chef, or chef de partie is critical to developing the skills needed for a Head Chef position.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Detroit
Some notable Detroit establishments hiring Head Chefs include:
- Selden Standard
- San Morello
- Lady of the House
- Grey Ghost Detroit
- Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails
Establishments That Head Chefs in Detroit Work At
Head Chefs in Detroit can be found working in a variety of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offering the highest salaries with a focus on culinary innovation and quality.
- Hotels and Resorts: These often provide stable employment with additional benefits and opportunities.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: While offering less pay generally, these venues provide valuable kitchen management experience.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Pay may vary depending on event volume and prestige.
Choice of establishment has a strong influence on earning potential and career growth opportunities for Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Detroit for Head Chefs
If you’re interested in careers similar to Head Chef, here are several related positions to explore:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles that share leadership and culinary responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Detroit
Head Chefs should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax obligations in Michigan to ensure compliance and understand their rights:
- Visit the State of Michigan official website for comprehensive information on state labor laws, worker rights, and employment regulations.
- For federal labor standards and tax guidelines, check the U.S. Department of Labor website.