Head Chef Salary in Goodyear, AZ
Head Chefs in Goodyear, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $29.90 per hour, which translates to about $1,196.00 per week, $5,182.67 per month, and $62,192.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Goodyear is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for culinary leadership positions in the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Goodyear, AZ?
The salary of a Head Chef in Goodyear can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.30 | $892.00 | $3,859.33 | $46,384.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.90 | $1,196.00 | $5,182.67 | $62,192.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.30 | $1,532.00 | $6,618.67 | $79,664.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Goodyear Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and supervision rather than direct customer service. Their earnings typically come from their salary or hourly wage alone.
Head Chef Salary in Goodyear vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of about $29.20 per hour, translating to approximately $60,736 annually.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Goodyear earn slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $29.90 and an annual salary of $62,192.
This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and demand for culinary leadership in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Goodyear for Head Chefs
When considering nearby areas, salary rates for Head Chefs vary:
- Estrella: $30.50 per hour
- Palm Valley: $31.00 per hour
Both Estrella and Palm Valley offer competitive pay rates that are slightly above Goodyear's average.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Goodyear?
Several key factors can influence a Head Chef’s salary in Goodyear:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Head Chefs with advanced culinary skills or leadership history generally command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and resorts typically offer better compensation than casual dining or fast food establishments.
- Skill Set: Specialized skills such as menu development, kitchen management, and inventory control can increase earning potential.
- Educational Background: Culinary degrees or certifications may enhance salary opportunities.
- Size of the Kitchen and Staff: Managing larger teams often comes with increased responsibilities and pay.
How To Become a Head Chef in Goodyear
If you aspire to become a Head Chef in Goodyear, the following steps can help pave your way:
- Complete Culinary Arts Training: Programs such as the West-MEC Culinary Arts Program provide foundational skills essential for entry-level culinary roles. This program includes various food preparation techniques suitable for buffet, banquet, à la carte, and bakery operations, taught in partnership with Estrella Mountain Community College.
- Enroll in Specialized Institutes: The Arizona Culinary Institute in Scottsdale offers an 8-month diploma program focused on hands-on cooking experience with small group learning and personal mentorship from seasoned instructors.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The Maricopa County Food Service Worker Certification ensures compliance with local food safety standards, while the ServSafe Manager Certification is nationally recognized for food safety management, both valuable for Head Chefs.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start as a line cook or sous chef to build your culinary and management skills before advancing to Head Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Goodyear
Major employers in Goodyear seeking qualified Head Chefs include:
- Compass Group
- Sodexo
- Aramark
- Marriott International
- Hilton Hotels
Establishments That Head Chefs in Goodyear Work At
Head Chefs in Goodyear work across a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often have moderate pay scales but can offer opportunities for growth.
- Fast Casual Chains: While offering steady work, fast casual spots generally pay less than upscale venues.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger properties typically provide higher salaries and benefits along with broader responsibilities.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Require advanced culinary expertise and provide correspondingly higher pay.
Salary differences across these establishments arise from the level of culinary skill, complexity of menu, and managerial duties involved.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Goodyear for Head Chefs
If you're interested in exploring careers related to that of a Head Chef, consider the following similar jobs:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager roles, all of which involve leadership and culinary expertise in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Goodyear
Head Chefs should be aware of labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their working conditions and compensation in Goodyear.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for information on national labor regulations.
- For state-specific guidelines, refer to the Arizona Industrial Commission website covering workplace safety and labor laws.
- The city of Goodyear official website provides additional local employment regulations and services.