Head Chef Salary in Huntington Beach, CA
Head Chefs in Huntington Beach, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $29.38 per hour, which translates to about $1,175.20 per week, $5,092.53 per month, and $61,110.40 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Huntington Beach is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with opportunities for skilled culinary leaders looking to advance their careers.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Huntington Beach, CA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Huntington Beach varies with experience and the establishment, but here’s an overview of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.32 | $972.80 | $4,212.53 | $50,553.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.38 | $1,175.20 | $5,092.53 | $61,110.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.50 | $1,420.00 | $6,133.33 | $73,840.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Huntington Beach Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is kitchen-focused rather than customer-facing. Their earnings primarily come from their salary or wages rather than supplementary tip income.
Head Chef Salary in Huntington Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn around $30.74 per hour, equivalent to approximately $63,939.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Huntington Beach make slightly less per hour at $29.38, resulting in a marginally lower annual income of $61,110.40. This difference may reflect local economic factors or cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington Beach for Head Chefs
Nearby locations with higher salary rates for Head Chefs include:
- Downtown Huntington Beach: $30.50 per hour
- Sunset Beach: $31.00 per hour
These surrounding areas offer slightly better pay, making them attractive for Head Chefs willing to commute.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Huntington Beach?
Several key factors influence how much a Head Chef earns in Huntington Beach:
- Experience and Skillset: More seasoned chefs with a versatile skillset and proven leadership abilities command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, resorts, and hotels often pay more than casual or fast food venues.
- Specializations: Chefs skilled in niche cuisines or with culinary awards can negotiate better pay.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Location: Salaries may vary based on the restaurant's location within or near Huntington Beach due to demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Head Chef in Huntington Beach
Launching a career as a Head Chef involves a combination of training, experience, and certifications:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program offer hands-on training and foundational knowledge in culinary arts.
- Obtain a Degree in Culinary Management: Institutions such as The Art Institute of California – Orange County provide bachelor's degrees focusing on culinary skills and business leadership.
- Earn Food Safety Credentials: The ServSafe Food Manager Certification is often required to demonstrate food safety expertise.
- Acquire Advanced Chef Certifications: Certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) from the American Culinary Federation showcase your culinary competence and management skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Progress through kitchen roles to develop experience managing kitchen staff and operations.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Huntington Beach
Some prominent employers seeking skilled Head Chefs include:
- The Waterfront Beach Resort
- Duke's Huntington Beach
- Pacific Hideaway
- Watertable
- Bluegold
Establishments That Head Chefs in Huntington Beach Work At
Head Chefs typically work in various types of establishments, each impacting their salary differently.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer higher salaries due to the demand for exceptional culinary skills and presentation.
- Resorts and Hotels: Often provide competitive pay combined with benefits, given the volume and quality expectations.
- Casual Dining: These establishments tend to pay less but may offer more consistent hours and less stress.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service: Generally have lower pay ranges due to the more limited menu complexity.
The establishment's reputation, clientele, and size significantly influence Head Chef salary levels.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington Beach for Head Chefs
If you're considering careers similar to that of a Head Chef, here are some related roles you might find interesting.
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager roles, which often require similar culinary leadership and management skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Huntington Beach
Head Chefs should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and comply legally.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations to learn about nationwide employment standards.
- For California-specific labor laws and workplace regulations, check the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- The Local city website provides municipal codes and regulations relevant to Huntington Beach employees.