Head Chef Salary in Oklahoma City, OK
Head Chefs in Oklahoma City, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $28.85 per hour, which translates to about $1,154.00 per week, $5,000.67 per month, and $60,008.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Oklahoma City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding culinary scene and increasing opportunities for executive kitchen roles in the area.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Oklahoma City, OK?
The salary of a Head Chef in Oklahoma City can vary depending on experience, establishment type, and culinary expertise. Below is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.08 | $923.20 | $3,995.73 | $47,942.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.85 | $1,154.00 | $5,000.67 | $60,008.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.06 | $1,442.40 | $6,239.73 | $74,924.80 |
Do Head Chefs in Oklahoma City Earn Tips?
Typically, Head Chefs do not earn tips since their role is primarily managerial and behind the scenes, focusing on kitchen operations rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation mainly comes from salary or hourly pay rather than tip earnings.
Head Chef Salary in Oklahoma City, OK vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $29.00 per hour, translating to about $60,320.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Oklahoma City earn slightly less per hour but close to the yearly national average. This suggests that Oklahoma City offers competitive pay that aligns well with broader U.S. market rates for this position.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oklahoma City for Head Chefs
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Head Chefs include:
- Downtown Oklahoma City: $30.00 per hour
- Bricktown: $29.50 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods can provide Head Chefs with slightly higher compensation, reflecting the demand and prestige of establishments in these bustling districts.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Oklahoma City?
Several factors play a crucial role in determining a Head Chef’s salary in Oklahoma City:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Head Chefs with advanced culinary skills and leadership competencies tend to earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale fine dining restaurants and hotels often pay more than casual dining or fast-casual establishments.
- Management Responsibilities: Head Chefs overseeing larger kitchen teams or multiple outlets typically receive more compensation.
- Certifications and Education: Holding specialized culinary degrees or certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Local Market Demand: Head Chefs working in competitive or high-demand neighborhoods may command better pay.
How To Become a Head Chef in Oklahoma City
To pursue a career as a Head Chef in Oklahoma City, consider the following steps:
- Gain Formal Culinary Education: Enroll in culinary arts programs such as those offered by Metro Technology Centers or Francis Tuttle Technology Center, both located in Oklahoma City and providing excellent culinary training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Certification is important for any culinary professional handling food.
- Pursue Advanced Credentials: Consider the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification by the American Culinary Federation to showcase expertise and managerial skills.
- Build Experience: Start in roles like line cook or sous chef to develop kitchen expertise before progressing to Head Chef.
- Networking and Apprenticeships: Working under established chefs and networking within culinary circles can offer valuable opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Oklahoma City
Some leading restaurants and venues recruiting Head Chefs in Oklahoma City include:
- Vast Restaurant & Bar
- Cheever’s Cafe
- The Mantel Wine Bar & Bistro
- Red PrimeSteak
- Paseo Grill
Establishments That Head Chefs in Oklahoma City Work At
Head Chefs typically find employment in various settings around Oklahoma City including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest salaries due to elevated expectations and sophisticated cuisine.
- Casual Dining Establishments: Usually have moderate pay scales but can provide steady employment.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: Often pay competitive wages and may offer additional benefits.
- Banquet and Catering Services: Provide dynamic work environments with varied tasks and sometimes seasonal shifts.
The salary can vary significantly depending on the prestige and scale of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oklahoma City for Head Chefs
If you are interested in careers similar to Head Chef, consider these related roles that involve culinary leadership and management:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Oklahoma City
Head Chefs should be informed about federal and state labor laws to ensure compliance and protect their rights:
- Information on federal labor laws can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific employment laws and resources, consult the Oklahoma state government website.