Head Chef Salary in Everett, WA
Head Chefs in Everett, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $25.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,000.00 per week, $4,333.33 per month, and $52,000.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Everett is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding hospitality industry in the area.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Everett, WA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Everett can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Everett Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily kitchen-based and not typically in direct contact with customers. Their income comes mainly from their salary or hourly wages.
Head Chef Salary in Everett vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $22.50 per hour, translating to about $46,800 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Everett earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $25.00 and an annual salary of $52,000.00.
This difference reflects the local market conditions and cost of living in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Everett for Head Chefs
When looking at nearby areas, Head Chef salaries vary:
- Downtown Everett: $28.00 per hour
- Everett Waterfront: $27.00 per hour
Head Chefs working in Downtown Everett can expect to earn slightly more compared to those closer to the waterfront, although both areas offer competitive wages.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Everett?
Several key factors impact the salary of a Head Chef in Everett:
- Experience and Skill Level: More years of experience and strong culinary skills usually translate into higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels often offer better compensation compared to casual dining or fast food venues.
- Management Responsibilities: Head Chefs who also take on managerial duties such as staff supervision and purchasing may command higher salaries.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary education and certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can enhance earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Wages tend to be higher in areas where demand for skilled chefs is strong and living costs are elevated.
How To Become a Head Chef in Everett
Becoming a Head Chef involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Associate of Applied Science at Lake Washington Institute of Technology prepare students with practical kitchen experience and valuable skills (lwtech.edu).
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining ServSafe Certification is essential to ensure compliance with food handling regulations.
- Professional Certification: Pursuing certifications such as the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can demonstrate advanced culinary and management competence.
- Gaining Experience: Starting as a Line Cook, Sous Chef, or other kitchen roles helps build the skills needed for a Head Chef position.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Everett
Everett hosts several prominent employers that frequently hire Head Chefs:
- Anthony's Restaurants
- Everett Golf & Country Club
- Tulalip Casino
- Eurest
- Bluewater Distilling
Establishments That Head Chefs in Everett Work At
Head Chefs typically work in a diverse range of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest wages due to the level of skill and creativity required.
- Casual Dining: Provide stable employment with competitive pay but often less than upscale venues.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer benefits, higher pay, and career growth opportunities.
- Casual and Fast Casual: Generally lower wages but more entry-level opportunities.
- Catering Services: Earnings can vary widely depending on the volume and type of events.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary and the range of responsibilities a Head Chef may have.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Everett for Head Chefs
If you're interested in careers similar to Head Chef, consider these related roles that also require culinary expertise and kitchen leadership:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles, which often have overlapping skills and similar career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Everett
Head Chefs should be aware of the relevant labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in Everett:
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for information on federal labor laws and workers' rights.
- The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries provides resources on state-specific workplace safety and labor laws.
- For local government information, the City of Everett official website offers useful resources and contacts.