Head Chef Salary in High Point, NC
Head Chefs in High Point, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $23.45 per hour, which translates to about $938.00 per week, $4,064.67 per month, and $48,776.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in High Point is growing at a rate of about 6% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing opportunities in the culinary management sector within this region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in High Point, NC?
The salary of a Head Chef in High Point can vary based on experience and the establishment, but below is an overview of earnings at different experience levels to provide you with a clear picture.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.33 | $613.20 | $2,656.40 | $31,862.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.45 | $938.00 | $4,064.67 | $48,776.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.83 | $1,433.20 | $6,185.33 | $74,465.60 |
Do Head Chefs in High Point Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily managerial and focused on kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. However, in some establishments, occasional bonuses or gratuities could be part of total compensation, but these are not guaranteed or standard.
Head Chef Salary in High Point vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $27.45 per hour, which is equivalent to about $57,096 per year.
When compared to the national average, Head Chefs in High Point earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $23.45 and an annual salary of $48,776. This difference may reflect cost of living variations and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near High Point for Head Chefs
Within the High Point area, salaries for Head Chefs vary slightly by neighborhood:
- Downtown High Point: $25 per hour
- Uptown High Point: $24.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown High Point can expect marginally higher pay compared to other neighborhoods, reflecting the concentration of upscale and commercial dining establishments.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in High Point?
Several factors can substantially affect the salary of a Head Chef in High Point:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Head Chefs with a broad culinary repertoire and leadership ability command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts often pay more than casual dining or fast-casual spots.
- Education and Certifications: Proof of culinary education or certifications like Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can enhance earning potential.
- Kitchen Size and Team Management: Head Chefs overseeing larger teams or complex kitchens tend to receive higher compensation.
- Local Economic Factors: Demand for culinary professionals in the High Point market and living costs directly influence wages.
How To Become a Head Chef in High Point
Becoming a Head Chef in High Point involves a combination of education, practical experience, and certifications.
- Hospitality Management at High Point University: This program covers hospitality operations including culinary arts and management, providing a solid foundation.
- Culinary Arts Club at High Point University: Offers hands-on cooking experience, useful for developing practical skills.
- Certified Executive Chef (CEC): A respected certification from the American Culinary Federation validating culinary and managerial expertise.
- ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification: Ensures knowledge of food safety and sanitation, crucial for kitchen leadership.
- Work Experience: Many start as line cooks or sous chefs, gaining experience before advancing to Head Chef roles.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in High Point
If you are seeking employment opportunities as a Head Chef in High Point, consider these prominent employers:
- Golden Corral
- Cracker Barrel
- P.F. Chang's
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Head Chefs in High Point Work At
Head Chefs in High Point typically work in a diverse range of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer the highest salaries due to the premium nature of the cuisine and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large operations demand experienced chefs, typically providing competitive pay and benefits.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments may offer lower pay but can provide valuable experience.
- Catering Companies and Banquet Halls: Specialty events require skilled chefs who may earn based on contract size and complexity.
The type of establishment directly influences salary, with upscale and large organizations generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in High Point for Head Chefs
If you are exploring fields similar to Head Chef, here are some related hospitality roles you might consider:
These include Executive Chef, Restaurant Manager, and Chef positions, which involve overlapping culinary and managerial skills with varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in High Point
Head Chefs should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in High Point. Useful resources include:
- North Carolina's state labor laws and workplace safety resources are available at the North Carolina Department of Labor.
- For federal labor regulations and guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Local regulations and services specific to High Point can be found on the High Point city government website.