Head Chef Salary in Fargo, ND
Head Chefs in Fargo, ND, in 2026, earn approximately $25.50 per hour, which equates to about $1,020.00 per week, $4,420.00 per month, and $53,040.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Fargo is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, signaling a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement within the culinary field in this region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Fargo, ND?
The salary of a Head Chef in Fargo varies based on experience, skills, and other factors. Below is an overview of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.60 | $824.00 | $3,567.33 | $42,848.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.90 | $956.00 | $4,134.67 | $49,712.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Fargo Earn Tips?
Generally, Head Chefs do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Their income is usually composed of their salary or hourly wages without additional tip income.
Head Chef Salary in Fargo vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of about $30.70 per hour, translating to approximately $63,856 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Fargo earn less annually and hourly, with a typical annual salary of $53,040 and hourly wage of $25.50.
This difference could be influenced by Fargo's cost of living, local demand, and market size.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fargo for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Head Chefs:
- West Fargo: $27.00 per hour
- Downtown Fargo: $26.50 per hour
These neighboring locations can offer incremental salary improvements, which might be attractive for Head Chefs seeking higher earning potential close to Fargo.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Fargo?
Several factors affect how much a Head Chef in Fargo can earn, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Head Chefs with extensive culinary skills and leadership capabilities command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often pay more than casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Professional Skills: Expertise in menu creation, kitchen management, and staff supervision are valued skills that impact pay.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education or certifications, such as the Certified Executive Chef (CEC), can increase earning potential.
- Work Schedule: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might include shift premiums or bonuses.
How To Become a Head Chef in Fargo
Becoming a Head Chef in Fargo generally involves several key steps and credentials:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the North Dakota State College of Science’s Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts provide hands-on experience in professional kitchens.
- Attend Culinary Intensive Camps: The NDSCS Culinary Intensive is a four-day camp focusing on essential culinary skills, ideal for those aged 16 and up.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe are crucial for understanding food and beverage safety standards.
- Obtain Professional Chef Certifications: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification indicates high culinary competence and management skills, boosting career prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work as a Sous Chef, Chef de Partie, or similar roles to build experience before advancing to Head Chef positions.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Fargo
Several establishments in Fargo hire skilled Head Chefs, including:
- Green Mill Restaurants
- The Hotel Donaldson
- Mezzaluna
Establishments That Head Chefs in Fargo Work At
Head Chefs in Fargo can be found working in a variety of establishments including:
- Casual Restaurants: These offer a dynamic environment with solid salaries, often dependent on the restaurant’s popularity.
- Fine Dining Venues: Typically higher paying due to the sophistication and demands of gourmet cuisine production.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments may offer competitive salaries along with additional benefits and tips.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: While these may have lower salaries than fine dining, they often provide more stable hours and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with fine dining and large hotel kitchens usually paying more to experienced Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fargo for Head Chefs
If you are considering careers related to being a Head Chef, the following similar roles might interest you:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Partie, and Restaurant Manager positions, each offering varying levels of responsibility and salary.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Fargo
Head Chefs should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper workplace treatment.
- You can find comprehensive federal labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For specific North Dakota labor laws and employment regulations, visit the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights.