Head Chef Salary in Evanston, IL
Head Chefs in Evanston, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $40.41 per hour, which translates to about $1,616.40 per week, $7,004.40 per month, and $84,052.80 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Evanston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy job market and increasing opportunities in the culinary scene within the city and surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Evanston, IL?
The salary of a Head Chef in Evanston varies based on experience, skills, and place of employment. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $33.38 | $1,335.20 | $5,777.07 | $69,324.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $40.41 | $1,616.40 | $7,004.40 | $84,052.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $48.92 | $1,956.80 | $8,453.33 | $101,673.60 |
Do Head Chefs in Evanston Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on kitchen management, menu development, and overseeing food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is mainly salary-based.
Head Chef Salary in Evanston vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $30.74, which equates to approximately $63,939.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Evanston earn significantly more, with an average of $40.41 per hour and $84,052.80 annually. This difference may be due to Evanston’s higher cost of living and the vibrant culinary industry in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Evanston, IL for Head Chefs
Nearby cities offering attractive salaries for Head Chefs include:
- Skokie: $49.90 per hour
- Naperville: $48.32 per hour
Head Chefs seeking higher pay may consider employment opportunities in these neighboring locations.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Evanston?
Several important factors can affect the salary of a Head Chef in Evanston:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Head Chefs with refined culinary skills and leadership capabilities command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or luxury resorts typically offers better compensation compared to casual dining or fast food establishments.
- Culinary Specializations: Chefs skilled in specific cuisines or with training in modern culinary techniques may earn more.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications such as Certified Executive Chef (CEC) or food safety credentials can enhance earning potential.
- Size and Location of Employer: Larger culinary operations or those in higher cost-of-living areas within Evanston may offer higher salaries.
How To Become a Head Chef in Evanston
Aspiring Head Chefs in Evanston can build their career by considering the following steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program or the Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute, both based in Chicago, to gain professional culinary training and management skills.
- Earn Relevant Certifications: Achieve certifications such as the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) from the American Culinary Federation and the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification to demonstrate expertise and compliance with food safety standards.
- Gain Experience: Work through positions such as line cook, sous chef, or kitchen supervisor to accumulate valuable kitchen management experience and culinary knowledge.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and communication skills are essential for managing kitchen staff and operations effectively.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Evanston
Prominent employers known for recruiting Head Chefs in Evanston include:
- Hilton Hotels
- Marriott International
- Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises
- Hyatt Hotels
- Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
Establishments That Head Chefs in Evanston Work At
Head Chefs in Evanston typically find employment in various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest salaries due to demanding menus and high customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide competitive wages with the added benefits of larger kitchens and multiple dining venues.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Usually lower salaries but great opportunities for gaining management experience.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Can offer flexible schedules and attractive pay depending on event volume.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence salary levels, with prestigious locations generally offering better compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Evanston for Head Chefs
If you are interested in similar roles related to the culinary and hospitality fields, consider the following careers:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, all sharing culinary leadership responsibilities but varying in scope and salary.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Evanston
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Head Chefs working in Evanston:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor for federal labor law information.
- Check the Illinois Department of Employment Security for state-specific employment regulations.
- Refer to the City of Evanston official website for local ordinances, employment standards, and tax guidelines.