Head Chef Salary in Milwaukee, WI
Head Chefs in Milwaukee, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $31.40 per hour, which translates to about $1,256.00 per week, $5,442.67 per month, and $65,312.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy outlook and increased opportunities in the culinary field within the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary of a Head Chef in Milwaukee can vary depending on factors such as experience, establishment type, and management responsibilities. Below is a general breakdown of expected earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.40 | $1,256.00 | $5,442.67 | $65,312.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.40 | $1,576.00 | $6,796.00 | $81,952.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily kitchen-focused and involves managing food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation mainly comes from their salary or wages.
Head Chef Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn on average around $31.40 per hour and approximately $65,312.00 annually.
The salary levels for Head Chefs in Milwaukee align closely with the national averages, reflecting the city's competitive culinary market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Head Chefs
Looking at nearby areas, the pay for Head Chefs can vary slightly:
- Downtown Milwaukee: $35.00 per hour
- East Side: $33.00 per hour
These areas typically have upscale dining establishments that offer a higher salary range for skilled culinary professionals such as Head Chefs.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Milwaukee?
Several key factors influence a Head Chef's salary in Milwaukee:
- Experience and Expertise: Seasoned Head Chefs with a strong culinary background and leadership skills command higher salaries.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in cuisines, menu creation, and kitchen management add value to compensation.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining restaurants or high-end hotels usually offers better pay than casual eateries.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger, well-known establishments often have bigger budgets for top culinary talent.
- Location: Different neighborhoods or districts within Milwaukee can have varying salary scales, depending on the local clientele and business level.
How To Become a Head Chef in Milwaukee
Becoming a Head Chef requires a blend of education, experience, and certifiable skills. Here are some common pathways to enter this role:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs such as the Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer Associate Degrees with hands-on training and industry experience.
- Management Training: Waukesha County Technical College Culinary Management Program provides education focused on both culinary skills and management practices.
- Certifications: Earning certifications like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification and the Wisconsin Food Manager Certification ensures proficiency in food safety and compliance.
- Building Experience: Gaining practical experience by working in kitchen roles like Line Cook or Sous Chef before advancing to Head Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s culinary scene features prominent employers actively seeking experienced Head Chefs, including:
- Sanford Restaurant
- Ardent Milwaukee
- Bacchus Restaurant & Lounge
Establishments That Head Chefs in Milwaukee Work At
Head Chefs in Milwaukee are found working in a range of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer the highest earning potential due to complex menus and high guest expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Employ Head Chefs to manage large-scale food operations, often with competitive salaries and benefits.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: May provide more entry-level opportunities but typically offer moderate salaries compared to fine dining.
- Catering Services and Event Venues: Demand Head Chefs for large events, which can offer variable but lucrative compensation.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with prestige and size being major factors.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Head Chefs
If you’re interested in careers similar to Head Chef, consider these related roles which share culinary and managerial elements:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions, each offering different levels of responsibility and compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Milwaukee
Head Chefs should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment. Useful resources include: