Head Chef in Green Bay, WI
Head Chefs in Green Bay, WI, in 2026, earn approximately $45.63 per hour, which translates to about $1,825.20 per week, $7,909.20 per month, and $94,910.40 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Green Bay is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary industry for this key leadership position.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Green Bay, WI?
The salary of a Head Chef in Green Bay varies based on experience and workplace, but here is a breakdown by experience level to give an idea of earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $32.00 | $1,280.00 | $5,546.67 | $66,560.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $40.00 | $1,600.00 | $6,933.33 | $76,800.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $51.00 | $2,040.00 | $8,820.00 | $106,080.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Green Bay Earn Tips?
Head Chefs in Green Bay generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily in kitchen management and culinary preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation typically comes from salary or wages.
Head Chef Salary in Green Bay vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn about $41.00 per hour, which equates to roughly $85,280 per year.
Head Chefs in Green Bay earn slightly above the national hourly average at $45.63 per hour and an annual salary of about $94,910.40, reflecting the local culinary market's competitive wages and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Green Bay for Head Chefs
Some nearby areas offer even higher pay for Head Chefs:
- Downtown Green Bay: $47.00 per hour
- Ashwaubenon: $46.00 per hour
Chefs considering employment near Green Bay might explore these areas for the best compensation.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Green Bay?
Several factors can significantly impact the salary of a Head Chef in Green Bay:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced chefs with advanced culinary techniques command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and hotels usually pay better than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Management Responsibilities: Salary increases with expanded duties such as kitchen management and staff supervision.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications and formal education can boost earnings potential.
- Shift Hours and Flexibility: Working nights, weekends, or holidays might come with premium pay.
How To Become a Head Chef in Green Bay
To pursue a career as a Head Chef in Green Bay, consider these key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Fox Valley Technical College Culinary Arts Program or the Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide solid culinary foundations with hands-on skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certification like the ServSafe Certification is often required for food handling and safety compliance.
- Gain Practical Experience: Advance through roles such as line cook or sous chef to build skills needed for Head Chef roles.
- Earn Advanced Credentials: Consider certifications such as the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) to demonstrate expertise.
- Build Leadership and Management Skills: Strong kitchen management and team leadership are critical for success.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Green Bay
Some key employers offering Head Chef positions in Green Bay include:
- Hotel Northland Green Bay
- Oneida Casino
- Lambeau Field Hospitality
Establishments That Head Chefs in Green Bay Work At
Head Chefs in Green Bay work across varied establishment types including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often offer higher salaries reflecting the need for refined culinary skills and menu development.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large-scale operations paying competitive wages due to volume and diverse cuisine offerings.
- Casual Dining and Family Restaurants: Generally offer moderate pay, suited for chefs managing simpler menus or smaller teams.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Provide opportunities for chefs to specialize in event cuisine, sometimes with premium compensation.
The type of establishment strongly influences the salary and work environment of a Head Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Green Bay for Head Chefs
If you're interested in roles similar to Head Chef, here are a few closely related positions you might consider:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, all involving culinary leadership and operations management within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Green Bay
Head Chefs should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements for employees in Wisconsin.
- For comprehensive federal labor guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Wisconsin-specific labor laws and employment resources, consult the State of Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.