Head Chef Salary in Irving, TX
Head Chefs in Irving, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $25.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,020.00 per week, $4,420.00 per month, and $53,040.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Irving is growing steadily with a 5% increase per year, indicating a positive job market for culinary professionals in this area.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Irving, TX?
The salary of a Head Chef in Irving varies depending on experience and skill level. Here’s an overview of the pay scale across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.16 | $846.40 | $3,665.87 | $43,990.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.40 | $1,016.00 | $4,399.47 | $52,832.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.24 | $1,689.60 | $7,295.47 | $87,739.20 |
Do Head Chefs in Irving Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily in the kitchen and not directly involved with customer service. Their income mainly comes from base salary and possible bonuses.
Head Chef Salary in Irving vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for a Head Chef is approximately $25.96 per hour, which amounts to about $53,996.80 annually.
When compared, Head Chefs in Irving make slightly less per hour at $25.50, translating to an annual salary just below the national average. This difference may reflect local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Irving for Head Chefs
In areas close to Irving, salary rates for Head Chefs can vary:
- Las Colinas: $27.50 per hour
- Valley Ranch: $26.80 per hour
Those working in Las Colinas tend to earn the highest pay among nearby locations, offering a notable opportunity for culinary professionals seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Irving?
The salary a Head Chef earns in Irving can depend on several key factors:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced chefs with a broad culinary skill set tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Head Chefs working in fine dining or upscale hotels often earn more than those in casual eateries.
- Leadership and Management Abilities: Skills in managing kitchen staff and operations can lead to higher pay.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications may help increase salary potential.
- Local Demand for Skilled Chefs: Irving’s growing culinary scene increases competition and salary levels.
How To Become a Head Chef in Irving
Becoming a successful Head Chef in Irving generally involves:
- Completing Culinary Education: Institutions such as Dallas College – El Centro Campus offer Culinary Arts programs covering essential skills, advanced cooking, and food safety.
- Attending Specialized Programs: The Jack E. Singley Academy in Irving provides hands-on Culinary Arts and Hospitality Studies programs tailored for aspiring chefs.
- Obtaining Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the Texas Food Handler Certification are mandatory for most culinary roles in Texas to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
- Gaining Practical Experience: Work experience in kitchens, advancing from line cook or sous chef roles, is a critical step.
- Acquiring Professional Certifications: The American Culinary Federation (ACF) offers various certifications validating culinary expertise, which can enhance career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Irving
Leading employers actively seeking Head Chefs in Irving include:
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Dallas DFW Airport South
- Compass Group
- Hackberry Creek Country Club
Establishments That Head Chefs in Irving Work At
Head Chefs in Irving are employed across various types of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These restaurants typically offer higher salaries due to elevated culinary expectations and customer service standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: High-end hotels like Embassy Suites provide structured kitchen environments with competitive pay scales.
- Country Clubs and Banquet Halls: These venues often require skilled Head Chefs to manage large-scale catering operations, which can influence salary positively.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: While offering more entry-level roles, these spots may pay less but provide valuable experience.
Each type of establishment impacts salary levels differently, often depending on prestige, clientele, and operational scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Irving for Head Chefs
Those interested in fields similar to being Head Chef might explore the following positions:
These include Executive Chef, Kitchen Manager, and Restaurant Manager, roles closely related to the leadership responsibilities of a Head Chef.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Irving
Head Chefs should be familiar with federal, state, and local labor laws to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Texas workforce rules and employment information can be found on the Texas Workforce Commission website.
- For local regulations and services, check the City of Irving official website.