Head Chef Salary in Fontana, CA
Head Chefs in Fontana, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $31.10 per hour, which translates to about $1,244.00 per week, $5,390.67 per month, and $64,688.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Fontana is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding culinary industry in the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Fontana, CA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Fontana varies based on experience and skills but generally falls within the following ranges:
| 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) | $31.10 | $1,244.00 | $5,390.67 | $64,688.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.90 | $1,556.00 | $6,716.67 | $80,912.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Fontana Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes managing kitchen operations. Their total compensation is usually included in their salary rather than through tipping.
Head Chef Salary in Fontana vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $28.00 per hour, which amounts to approximately $58,240.00 per year.
Compared to this, Head Chefs in Fontana earn a higher average salary of $31.10 per hour and $64,688.00 annually, likely influenced by local cost of living and demand for skilled culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fontana for Head Chefs
Nearby areas often offer different pay levels for Head Chefs:
- Downtown Fontana: $32.50 per hour
- North Fontana: $33.00 per hour
Head Chefs working in North Fontana can expect to earn slightly more than those in Downtown Fontana, with both areas offering competitive wages within the region.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Fontana?
Various factors affect how much a Head Chef can earn in Fontana:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Head Chefs with refined culinary skills and leadership qualities tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, or resorts often pays more than casual dining outlets.
- Location: Salaries can vary between neighborhoods and nearby cities depending on demand and living costs.
- Certifications and Education: Additional culinary education and professional certifications may boost earning potential.
- Size and Reputation of the Business: Larger or renowned establishments may provide higher pay and benefits.
How To Become a Head Chef in Fontana
Becoming a Head Chef in Fontana involves several key steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Attend programs like the Chaffey College Culinary Arts Program in nearby Rancho Cucamonga, offering hands-on training in cooking techniques and kitchen management, or the San Bernardino Valley College Culinary Arts Program, which covers comprehensive culinary skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earn the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, a nationally recognized credential often required for Head Chefs to ensure food safety knowledge.
- Achieve Professional Certification: Consider certifications through the American Culinary Federation (ACF), such as Certified Executive Chef (CEC), to demonstrate professional competency.
- Gain Industry Experience: Work your way up through kitchen roles like Line Cook or Sous Chef to head the kitchen.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Fontana
Several prominent employers in Fontana are actively seeking qualified Head Chefs, including:
- The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
- Seasons 52
- Local upscale restaurants
Establishments That Head Chefs in Fontana Work At
Head Chefs find opportunities in a variety of establishment types such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to demanding menus and clientele expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations with extensive food services often pay competitively and provide benefits.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These establishments might offer lower salaries but can provide valuable experience.
- Catering Companies: Head Chefs here may have flexible schedules with variable income depending on contracts.
The institution type greatly impacts the Head Chef's salary due to differences in clientele, complexity of food preparation, and organizational size.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fontana for Head Chefs
If you are interested in alternative or related careers to Head Chef, consider the following roles:
This list includes Executive Chef, Restaurant Manager, and Chef roles, which share many of the same culinary and leadership skills as Head Chefs.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Fontana
Head Chefs in Fontana should be familiar with local and federal labor laws to ensure proper work conditions and compliance:
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for detailed state labor laws and regulations.
- Check the California Employment Development Department for state employment services and tax information.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and resources.