Head Chef Salary in Kent, WA
Head Chefs in Kent, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $38.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,520.00 per week, $6,586.67 per month, and $79,040.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Kent is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising outlook for culinary professionals seeking advancement in this market.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Kent, WA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Kent varies based on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.70 | $1,148.00 | $4,964.00 | $59,776.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,586.67 | $79,040.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $52.20 | $2,088.00 | $9,052.00 | $108,576.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Kent Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as they primarily work behind the scenes managing kitchen operations, rather than directly serving customers.
Head Chef Salary in Kent vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $30.00 per hour, translating to about $62,400.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Kent earn more, at approximately $38.00 per hour and $79,040.00 annually, reflecting local demand and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kent for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Head Chefs include:
- Tukwila: $46.90 per hour
- Bellevue: $42.90 per hour
These locations provide attractive salary options for Head Chefs willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Kent?
Experience plays a critical role; seasoned Head Chefs command higher pay due to refined culinary and management skills.
The type of establishment also significantly affects salaries. Upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts tend to offer better compensation compared to casual dining or fast-casual venues.
Specialized skills such as menu development, team leadership, and inventory management enhance earning potential.
Certifications and culinary education further boost salary by demonstrating formal expertise.
How To Become a Head Chef in Kent
Becoming a Head Chef in Kent involves several key steps:
- Gain practical cooking experience working in kitchens, progressing from roles such as Commis Chef or Cook.
- Complete culinary training such as the Culinary Skills Apprenticeship at Project Feast, a 10-week part-time program combining classroom and hands-on instruction.
- Earn a formal culinary degree, like the Culinary Arts AAS Degree at Lake Washington Institute of Technology, which covers cooking principles, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Obtain professional certifications such as the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification, which involves written and practical exams to verify skills.
- Comply with food safety regulations by acquiring the Washington State Food Worker Card.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Kent
Major employers looking for skilled Head Chefs in Kent include:
- Nordstrom
- Marriott International
- Hyatt Hotels
Establishments That Head Chefs in Kent Work At
Head Chefs in Kent are employed across a variety of establishments:
- Fine dining restaurants: Offer higher salaries due to the demand for high-quality culinary expertise.
- Hotels and resorts: Often employ Head Chefs to manage large kitchens with diverse menus, typically offering competitive pay.
- Casual and fast-casual restaurants: Provide opportunities but generally with lower pay compared to upscale venues.
- Catering companies and event venues: Can offer dynamic work environments with varying pay scales.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly affect salary and career advancement possibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kent for Head Chefs
If you are interested in related roles within the hospitality industry, consider these similar careers:
These include Executive Chef, Restaurant Manager, and Chef positions which share overlapping skills and responsibilities with the Head Chef role.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Kent
Awareness of local and federal labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Head Chefs to ensure compliance and optimize their employment rights.