Head Chef Salary in Norfolk, VA
Head Chefs in Norfolk, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $33.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,320.00 per week, $5,720.00 per month, and $68,640.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Norfolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement in the culinary field locally.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Norfolk, VA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Norfolk varies by experience and establishment, but here’s a breakdown by typical 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) | $33.00 | $1,320.00 | $5,720.00 | $68,640.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $44.00 | $1,760.00 | $7,626.67 | $91,520.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Norfolk, VA Earn Tips?
Head Chefs do not typically receive tips as part of their earnings. Their income primarily consists of their salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities from customers.
Head Chef Salary in Norfolk, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $38.00 per hour, translating to approximately $79,040 per year.
Compared to the national level, Head Chefs in Norfolk earn $33.00 per hour and about $68,640 annually, indicating a slightly lower wage than the national average.
This difference may be due to variations in the local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norfolk, VA for Head Chefs
Nearby areas where Head Chefs tend to earn higher wages include:
- Downtown Norfolk: $35.00 per hour
- Ghent: $34.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods could mean a modest increase in earnings.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Norfolk, VA?
Several factors contribute to the variations in a Head Chef’s salary in Norfolk:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Head Chefs with more years of experience and refined culinary skills generally command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries tend to be higher in upscale restaurants and luxury hotels compared to casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Management Responsibilities: Head Chefs who oversee large kitchen teams or multiple locations may earn more due to added duties.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Holding culinary degrees or certifications such as those from reputable institutions can positively impact pay.
- Local Economic Factors: The overall economic health and cost of living in Norfolk impact the salary ranges.
How To Become a Head Chef in Norfolk, VA
Becoming a successful Head Chef in Norfolk involves a combination of education, skill development, and experience. Here are some key steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Pursue programs like the Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program for foundational knowledge and technical cooking skills.
- Advanced Degrees and Training: The Culinary Institute of Virginia offers Associate and Bachelor's degrees with practical training to further your expertise.
- Certifications: Obtain certifications such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation and ServSafe Certification to demonstrate professionalism in food safety and culinary skills.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Work in various culinary roles under experienced chefs to build competency before advancing to Head Chef positions.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Norfolk, VA
Some of the prominent employers seeking Head Chefs in Norfolk include:
- Freemason Abbey Restaurant
- The Dirty Buffalo
- CHICHO'S PIZZA
- Qdoba
- The Fresh Market
Establishments That Head Chefs in Norfolk, VA Work At
Head Chefs commonly work in a diverse range of establishments, from casual dining to fine dining restaurants:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to the complexities and quality demands of the cuisine and guest experience.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Pay tends to be moderate, reflecting the simpler menus and faster service pace.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can provide stable employment with competitive salaries and varying culinary challenges.
- Catering Companies and Private Clubs: Often provide unique opportunities and may offer attractive compensation depending on the client base.
The establishment type greatly influences salary potential based on food quality, clientele, and operational scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norfolk, VA for Head Chefs
If you are considering careers related to the Head Chef role, here are some similar positions to explore.
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles, which share responsibilities in kitchen leadership and culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Norfolk, VA
Head Chefs should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper employment standards.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor laws and employment guidelines.
- Check the Virginia state government site for state-specific labor laws, wage requirements, and workplace regulations.