Head Chef Salary in Saint-Paul, MN
Head Chefs in Saint-Paul, MN, in 2025, earn approximately $25.55 per hour, which translates to about $1,022.00 per week, $4,428.67 per month, and $53,144.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Saint-Paul is growing steadily at about 5% per year, suggesting positive job outlook and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Saint-Paul, MN?
The salary of a Head Chef in Saint-Paul varies based on experience and employer, but the following breakdown illustrates how wages can scale:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.31 | $812.40 | $3,514.80 | $42,147.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.55 | $1,022.00 | $4,428.67 | $53,144.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.12 | $1,284.80 | $5,556.27 | $66,729.60 |
Do Head Chefs in Saint-Paul Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation since their role is focused primarily on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income is usually comprised of wages and potential bonuses tied to performance.
Head Chef Salary in Saint-Paul, MN vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn on average about $29.17 per hour, resulting in close to $60,673.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Saint-Paul earn a bit less, with hourly wages around $25.55 and annual salaries near $53,144.00. This variance might reflect regional cost of living factors and dining industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Saint-Paul for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offering higher salaries for Head Chefs include:
- Eden Prairie: $28.99 per hour
- Minneapolis: $27.09 per hour
Head Chefs seeking higher pay may consider opportunities in Eden Prairie or Minneapolis, where culinary roles typically command better compensation due to market size and restaurant scene.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Saint-Paul?
Several factors can influence the earnings of a Head Chef in Saint-Paul, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned chefs with proven culinary skills and leadership abilities tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels typically offer better salaries compared to casual eateries.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in international cuisines or pastry arts can elevate pay.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger or more prestigious establishments often provide more competitive compensation packages.
- Management Responsibilities: Head Chefs overseeing larger teams or multiple food outlets may command higher salaries.
How To Become a Head Chef in Saint-Paul
Becoming a Head Chef in Saint-Paul involves gaining culinary skills, experience, and relevant credentials. Some useful steps include:
- Enroll in local culinary programs: Saint Paul College Culinary Arts Program offers Associate degrees and certificates focusing on practical cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and presentation.
- Consider diplomas from schools like Hennepin Technical College: Their Culinary Arts Program provides hands-on training in world cuisines, baking, and foodservice operations.
- Obtain professional certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe for food and beverage safety, and the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) from the American Culinary Federation can enhance qualifications.
- Gain industry experience: Working your way through kitchen hierarchy by starting as a line cook or sous chef helps build necessary skills.
- Develop leadership and management skills: These are essential for leading kitchen staff and managing restaurant operations effectively.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Saint-Paul
Some of the notable establishments hiring Head Chefs in Saint-Paul include:
- The Lexington
- Spoon and Stable
- Meritage
- Alma
- Saint Dinette
Establishments That Head Chefs in Saint-Paul Work At
Head Chefs commonly find employment across varied types of food service establishments such as:
- Fine dining restaurants: Here, chefs often earn the highest salaries due to upscale clientele and complex menu offerings.
- Casual and fast casual restaurants: Salaries may be moderate, reflecting the quicker service style and simpler menus.
- Hotels and resorts: These can offer competitive pay and opportunities to oversee large kitchen operations.
- Catering companies and banquet halls: Payment may vary with the size and scope of events managed.
The establishment's prestige and customer base significantly impact salary potential for Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Saint-Paul for Head Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to Head Chef, consider these roles which share similar culinary and management skill sets:
Included are Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, each offering unique paths within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Saint-Paul
As a Head Chef working in Saint-Paul, it’s important to understand your legal and tax obligations. For comprehensive details, you can consult the following resources:
- Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (state website) – for state labor laws, wage regulations, and workplace safety.
- Internal Revenue Service (federal website) – for federal tax obligations and information related to employment taxes.