Head Chef Salary in Lansing, MI
Head Chefs in Lansing, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $24.00 per hour, which translates to about $960.00 per week, $4,160.00 per month, and $49,920.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Lansing is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market and increasing opportunities within the culinary industry in this region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Lansing, MI?
The salary of a Head Chef in Lansing can vary based on experience and the type of employer. Here is an overview of earnings from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.20 | $608.00 | $2,632.00 | $31,616.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.00 | $1,440.00 | $6,240.00 | $74,880.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Lansing Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is usually solely based on salary or wages.
Head Chef Salary in Lansing vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $28.20 per hour, translating to about $58,656.00 per year.
When compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Lansing earn somewhat less, at about $24.00 per hour and $49,920.00 annually. This difference may relate to local economic factors and cost of living in Lansing.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lansing for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Head Chefs:
- East Lansing: $25.00 per hour
- Downtown Lansing: $24.50 per hour
Head Chefs working in East Lansing can expect marginally higher wages, reflecting local demand and the presence of upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Lansing?
Several factors affect how much a Head Chef earns in Lansing:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Head Chefs with advanced skills generally command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and country clubs often pay more compared to casual dining or smaller eateries.
- Leadership and Management Abilities: Skills in managing kitchen staff and operations are highly valued and can increase earning potential.
- Education and Certifications: Completion of culinary courses and certifications can enhance salary prospects.
- Local Market Demand: The regional demand for culinary talent influences wage levels.
How To Become a Head Chef in Lansing
Becoming a Head Chef involves gaining both education and experience in the culinary field:
- Formal Education: Programs such as the Michigan State University School of Hospitality Business provide comprehensive education for leadership roles in hospitality.
- Practical Culinary Training: Schools like Le Chat Gourmet Culinary Arts offer hands-on cooking classes to develop diverse culinary techniques.
- Certifications: Earning certifications like ServSafe Food Manager Certification and Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can significantly bolster a candidate's qualifications.
- On-the-Job Experience: Progressing from roles such as line cook or sous chef through experience is typical.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Lansing
Notable employers in Lansing that regularly hire Head Chefs include:
- Country Club of Lansing
- Michigan State University
- Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts
Establishments That Head Chefs in Lansing Work At
Head Chefs in Lansing typically find employment in a variety of food service establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer the highest salaries due to the skill and creativity required.
- Country Clubs and Hotels: These establishments may provide competitive pay along with benefits and more stable work hours.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: While offering more entry points, these can have lower pay scales compared to fine dining.
- Catering Services: Experienced Head Chefs may work with catering businesses where pay can vary based on contract size and clientele.
The type of establishment influences not only salary but also career advancement opportunities and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lansing for Head Chefs
If you are interested in careers similar to that of a Head Chef, consider these related roles in the hospitality sector:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, each with varying levels of responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Lansing
Understanding local and federal labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Head Chefs to navigate employment rights and financial obligations.
- Consult the official Michigan government website for state labor laws and regulations.
- For federal labor laws and workplace standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.