Head Chef Salary in Hillsboro, OR
Head Chefs in Hillsboro, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $27.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,100.00 per week, $4,766.67 per month, and $57,200.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Hillsboro is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook for culinary management roles in the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Hillsboro, OR?
The salary of a Head Chef in Hillsboro varies depending on experience and employer, but to give a general overview, here’s a breakdown by experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.10 | $884.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.50 | $1,100.00 | $4,766.67 | $57,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.50 | $1,340.00 | $5,786.67 | $69,680.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Hillsboro Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is focused primarily on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income usually comes from their salary or wages alone.
Head Chef Salary in Hillsboro vs. National Average
Across the United States, Head Chefs earn an average of about $27.50 per hour or $57,200 annually.
Head Chefs in Hillsboro earn approximately the national average, reflecting a stable market that aligns with broader culinary salary trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hillsboro for Head Chefs
Nearby areas with slightly higher wages for Head Chefs include:
- Downtown Hillsboro: $28.50 per hour
- Orenco Station: $29.00 per hour
These neighborhoods offer marginally better pay, possibly due to the types of establishments and clientele found there.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Hillsboro?
Several key factors influence the salary of Head Chefs in Hillsboro:
- Experience: More experienced Head Chefs command higher wages through refined culinary skills and leadership ability.
- Skills and Certifications: Expertise in diverse cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety certifications can boost salary.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts typically pay more than casual dining or fast-casual eateries.
- Size and Reputation: Larger establishments with a prestigious reputation often offer competitive pay and benefits.
- Local Demand: Culinary trends and the local economy affect the demand and pay scale for Head Chefs.
How To Become a Head Chef in Hillsboro
Becoming a Head Chef in Hillsboro requires a combination of education, training, and experience:
- Attend Culinary Schools: Institutions such as the Oregon Culinary Institute in nearby Portland offer comprehensive programs that cover essential culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Complete Degree Programs: The Portland Community College Culinary Arts Program offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree focusing on culinary skills and industry knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification are often mandatory to ensure compliance with health standards.
- Gain Professional Certifications: Advanced credentials such as the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) from the American Culinary Federation signify high expertise and managerial experience.
- Acquire Experience: Starting in lower-level kitchen roles to build culinary skills and leadership abilities is essential before advancing to Head Chef positions.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Hillsboro
Some notable local businesses currently employing Head Chefs include:
- McMenamins Cornelius Pass Roadhouse
- The Rock Wood Fired Pizza
- Cooper Mountain Brewing
Establishments That Head Chefs in Hillsboro Work At
Head Chefs in Hillsboro typically work in various settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often offer higher salaries due to the level of skill and presentation required.
- Casual Dining: Restaurants that serve moderately priced meals may offer salaries closer to the average market rate.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: Larger operations can provide head chefs with steady hours and benefits, sometimes at higher pay.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Though less prestigious, these positions offer good entry points but often with lower pay.
The type and scale of the establishment heavily influence the compensation of Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hillsboro for Head Chefs
If you are interested in similar career paths, here are some related roles worth considering:
These include Executive Chef, Kitchen Manager, and Chef de Cuisine positions, which share many responsibilities and culinary skills with Head Chefs.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Hillsboro
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Head Chefs working in Hillsboro.
- The State of Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries website provides detailed information on state labor laws and regulations.
- For federal labor standards and employment rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.