Head Chef Salary in New-Bedford, MA
Head Chefs in New-Bedford, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $30.75 per hour, which translates to about $1,230.00 per week, $5,330.00 per month, and $63,960.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in New-Bedford is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary field within the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in New-Bedford, MA?
The salary of a Head Chef in New-Bedford varies depending on experience and employer, but below is a breakdown across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.87 | $754.80 | $3,270.40 | $39,170.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.75 | $1,230.00 | $5,330.00 | $63,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $45.13 | $1,805.20 | $7,822.67 | $93,870.40 |
Do Head Chefs in New-Bedford Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their main compensation comes from their salary. Tips are usually reserved for waitstaff and bartenders rather than kitchen leadership roles.
Head Chef Salary in New-Bedford vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $28.37 per hour, which translates to about $59,009.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in New-Bedford earn slightly more, at about $30.75 per hour and $63,960 annually. This reflects regional differences in living costs and culinary industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New-Bedford for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offering competitive salaries for Head Chefs include:
- Downtown New Bedford: $32.00 per hour
- North End: $31.50 per hour
Head Chefs working in Downtown New Bedford may receive slightly higher pay compared to other nearby localities.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in New-Bedford?
Several factors contribute to the variability in Head Chef salaries in New-Bedford:
- Experience and Expertise: Head Chefs with years of culinary experience and specialized skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or luxury hotels typically offer more competitive pay than casual dining or smaller eateries.
- Cooking Style and Reputation: Chefs known for specific cuisines or those with a strong local reputation may earn more.
- Leadership and Management Skills: A Head Chef's ability to manage kitchen staff and operations impacts compensation.
- Local Market Demand: Increased demand for culinary talent in New-Bedford can drive wages upward.
How To Become a Head Chef in New-Bedford
Starting a career as a Head Chef in New-Bedford involves gaining both formal education and practical experience. Here are key steps:
- Participate in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School provide comprehensive training and certifications such as ServSafe, First Aid/CPR, OSHA 10, and Allergy Awareness.
- Enroll in Higher Education: Early Enrollment opportunities at Johnson & Wales University offer degrees in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management, valuable for career advancement.
- Obtain Certifications: Credentials like the ServSafe Certification and OSHA 10 Certification are often required, ensuring adherence to food safety and workplace standards.
- Gain Experience: Working in kitchen roles such as Sous Chef or Chef de Partie helps build the skills needed for a Head Chef position.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in New-Bedford
Several well-known employers in New-Bedford are actively seeking Head Chefs:
- NewBOCCA
- LCS Recruiting
- Chartwells K12
Establishments That Head Chefs in New-Bedford Work At
Head Chefs commonly work in a variety of culinary settings including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer higher salaries due to the quality of cuisine and clientele.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: May provide more entry-level head chef opportunities but with moderate pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments can afford competitive salaries and benefits.
- Institutional Settings: Such as schools or hospitals, generally offer stable work but often at lower salaries.
The nature and prestige of the establishment significantly impact Head Chef compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New-Bedford for Head Chefs
If you are interested in positions related to Head Chef, consider these similar roles that require culinary leadership and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in New-Bedford
Head Chefs in New-Bedford should familiarize themselves with key labor laws and tax regulations:
- Information on Massachusetts labor laws can be found on the Massachusetts government website, including wage requirements and workplace protections.
- For federal employment rules and standards, the U.S. Department of Labor's website offers extensive resources.