Head Chef Salary in Palm Coast, FL
Head Chefs in Palm Coast, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $25.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,000.00 per week, $4,333.33 per month, and $52,000.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Palm Coast is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and expanding opportunities for culinary leadership roles in the area.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Palm Coast, FL?
The salary of a Head Chef in Palm Coast depends on experience level and employer, but here’s a general overview:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Palm Coast Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is mainly focused on kitchen management, food preparation, and supervision rather than customer-facing service. Their earnings come primarily from salary and bonuses.
Head Chef Salary in Palm Coast vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of about $32.00 per hour, or roughly $66,560.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Palm Coast earn less, with average hourly pay at $25.00 and yearly earnings around $52,000.00. This difference may reflect variations in local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Palm Coast for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer higher pay opportunities for Head Chefs:
- Hammock Beach: $27.00 per hour
- Palm Harbor: $26.50 per hour
Considering these locations might benefit Head Chefs seeking higher salaries close to Palm Coast.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Palm Coast?
Several factors impact salary levels for Head Chefs in Palm Coast:
- Experience and Expertise: Seasoned Head Chefs and those with specialized culinary skills command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries are often higher in upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts compared to casual eateries.
- Management Responsibilities: Chefs overseeing larger kitchen teams or multiple outlets usually earn more.
- Certifications and Training: Holding culinary certifications or advanced training can boost earnings.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Regional economic conditions influence wage levels.
How To Become a Head Chef in Palm Coast
To pursue a career as a Head Chef in Palm Coast, consider these steps:
- Complete Professional Culinary Training: Programs like Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality at First Coast Technical College provide hands-on skills and prepare students for the hospitality industry. The Culinary Program at Flagler Palm Coast High School also offers foundational culinary education.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Manager Certification is nationally recognized and essential for compliance with food safety regulations.
- Pursue Advanced Credentials: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification from the American Culinary Federation recognizes expertise and management ability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in various kitchen roles builds expertise and leadership skills necessary to become a Head Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Palm Coast
Some major employers currently seeking Head Chefs in Palm Coast include:
- Hammock Beach Resort
- The Windsor of Palm Coast
- Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill
Establishments That Head Chefs in Palm Coast Work At
Head Chefs typically work in a variety of hospitality settings such as:
- Fine dining restaurants: Often offering the highest salaries due to the demand for high-quality cuisine and presentation.
- Resorts and hotels: Larger operations usually have substantial kitchen teams requiring strong leadership, which can increase pay.
- Casual and fast casual restaurants: These may offer lower salaries but often provide more entry-level opportunities.
- Event venues and banquet facilities: Require chefs skilled in large-scale food preparation and menu flexibility.
The type and prestige of the establishment play a significant role in salary variations for Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Palm Coast for Head Chefs
If you’re interested in career paths related to the Head Chef role, consider these similar positions:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Chef de Cuisine positions, which involve related responsibilities and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Palm Coast
Understanding relevant labor laws and tax regulations is important for Head Chefs in Palm Coast.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- Check State of Florida's official site for state-specific employment rules and labor resources.
- Flagler County's local guidelines can be found at Flagler County's official website.