Head Chef Salary in Little Rock, AR
Head Chefs in Little Rock, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $36.69 per hour, which translates to about $1,467.60 per week, $6,359.60 per month, and $76,315.20 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Little Rock is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for culinary professionals seeking to advance their careers in this vibrant food scene.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Little Rock, AR?
The salary of a Head Chef in Little Rock can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general snapshot across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.36 | $694.40 | $3,004.53 | $36,057.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.40 | $856.00 | $3,683.33 | $44,512.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.64 | $1,425.60 | $6,177.60 | $74,131.20 |
Do Head Chefs in Little Rock Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is mainly management and kitchen-focused rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come primarily from their salary or wages.
Head Chef Salary in Little Rock, AR vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $36.69 per hour, translating to about $76,315.20 per year.
Head Chefs in Little Rock earn roughly the same as the national average at the top paying levels, while entry and mid-level salaries tend to be somewhat lower, reflecting local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little Rock for Head Chefs
Some of the neighborhoods near Little Rock that offer higher salaries for Head Chefs include:
- Downtown Little Rock: $38.00 per hour
- River Market District: $37.50 per hour
These areas often feature upscale dining establishments which offer higher pay to attract experienced culinary leaders.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Little Rock?
Experience and Skills matter greatly; a seasoned Head Chef with advanced culinary expertise commands better pay.
Type of Establishment is crucial — fine dining restaurants typically offer higher salaries than casual eateries.
Size and Reputation of the Venue can affect pay; head chefs at well-known or large establishments tend to earn more.
Specialized Skills, such as expertise in international cuisines or pastry arts, can also boost earnings.
Finally, management responsibilities like overseeing kitchen staff, budgeting, and menu planning play a role in salary levels.
How To Become a Head Chef in Little Rock
To become a Head Chef in Little Rock, consider these steps:
- Enroll in recognized programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at UA - Pulaski Technical College providing comprehensive instruction in culinary and kitchen management skills.
- Attend targeted job training like the Food Jobs Work Culinary Arts Program, ideal for gaining hands-on experience and certifications.
- Obtain essential certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate food safety proficiency required by Arkansas employers.
- Pursue professional validation like the Certified Culinarian Credential by the American Culinary Federation (ACF) to boost credibility and career prospects.
- Gain experience by working progressively through kitchen roles to build culinary and leadership expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Little Rock
Some of the prominent employers seeking Head Chefs in Little Rock include:
- The Pantry Restaurant
- Brave New Restaurant
- One Eleven at the Capital
- South on Main
- Local Lime
Establishments That Head Chefs in Little Rock Work At
Head Chefs in Little Rock often work in a variety of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically pay the highest salaries due to demand for culinary excellence and creativity.
- Casual and Upscale Casual Restaurants: Provide a moderate salary range with opportunities for career growth.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can offer competitive pay and benefits, especially in larger venues.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Experience here may vary but often involves dynamic kitchen management.
The salary differences among such establishments depend on the clientele, prestige, and volume of business.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little Rock for Head Chefs
If you are exploring careers similar to that of a Head Chef, here are some closely related roles you might consider:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions, which involve varying leadership responsibilities within the culinary and hospitality sectors.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Little Rock
Head Chefs should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their work in Little Rock and Arkansas.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and resources are available through the State of Arkansas official website.
- Local government resources pertaining to employment can be found on the City of Little Rock official website.