Head Chef Salary in Rochester, MN
Head Chefs in Rochester, MN, in 2026, 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 Rochester is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a promising and expanding job market in the culinary field within the area.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Rochester, MN?
The salary of a Head Chef in Rochester can vary significantly based on experience, skills, and employer type. Below is an overview of typical pay across various experience levels.
| 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) | $28.85 | $1,154.00 | $5,000.67 | $60,008.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $41.83 | $1,673.20 | $7,211.47 | $86,945.60 |
Do Head Chefs in Rochester Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips as their responsibilities focus mostly on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Therefore, their income usually consists solely of their salary or hourly wages.
Head Chef Salary in Rochester vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $30.00 per hour, which equates to approximately $62,400.00 per year.
When comparing this to Rochester, Head Chefs earn slightly less on average at $28.85 per hour and $60,008.00 annually. This is likely influenced by regional economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rochester for Head Chefs
Within the Rochester metropolitan area, salary levels can fluctuate depending on the specific location:
- Downtown Rochester: $30.00 per hour
- Mayo Clinic Area: $32.00 per hour
The Mayo Clinic Area tends to offer higher pay due to the demand from its prestigious healthcare institutions and affiliated dining services.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Rochester?
Various factors impact the earning potential of a Head Chef in Rochester:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Head Chefs with refined culinary skills and leadership capabilities command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or healthcare food services tend to offer better pay than casual dining spots.
- Management Responsibilities: Head Chefs overseeing larger kitchen teams and operations often receive higher compensation.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Formal training and culinary certifications increase credibility and earning possibilities.
- Local Market Demand: Rochester’s growing culinary scene and the presence of major institutions influence salary trends.
How To Become a Head Chef in Rochester
Becoming a Head Chef requires a combination of hands-on experience, formal education, and certifications. Here are several steps to follow:
- Complete Culinary Education Programs: Programs such as the Rochester Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program and Southeast Minnesota Technical College Culinary Program offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and safety.
- Obtain Key Certifications: Earning certifications like the ServSafe Certification for food safety and the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential by the American Culinary Federation can significantly boost your qualifications.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work your way through kitchen positions such as line cook, sous chef, and kitchen manager to build the necessary skills and leadership experience.
- Develop Strong Management Skills: Head Chefs need to manage teams effectively, control kitchen costs, and ensure quality, requiring both culinary and business acumen.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Rochester
Some of the prominent employers offering opportunities for Head Chefs in Rochester include:
- Morrison Healthcare at Mayo Clinic
- Pescara
- Chester’s Kitchen & Bar
- The Charter House
- Taher
Establishments That Head Chefs in Rochester Work At
Head Chefs in Rochester typically find employment across a variety of food service establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer higher salaries reflecting the skill and presentation standards required.
- Hotels and Resorts: Pay is competitive due to the scale and complexity of operations.
- Healthcare and Institutional Food Services: Such as the Mayo Clinic, where food quality and dietary needs are paramount.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: Provide opportunities but often with lower pay compared to fine dining.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, work environment, and growth opportunities for Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rochester for Head Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to being a Head Chef, here are a few comparable positions that often require similar skills and experience:
These include Executive Chef, Restaurant Manager, and Chef de Cuisine roles, which also involve leadership and culinary oversight in hospitality operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Rochester
Head Chefs working in Rochester should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper management of their employment:
- For state labor laws and regulations, visit the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
- Federal tax guidelines and resources are available through the Internal Revenue Service.
- Local government information and resources can be accessed at the City of Rochester Official Website.