Head Chef Salary in Salt Lake City, UT
Head Chefs in Salt Lake City, UT, in 2025, earn approximately $28.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,140.00 per week, $4,940.00 per month, and $59,280.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Salt Lake City is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary industry within the city.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Salt Lake City, UT?
The salary of a Head Chef in Salt Lake City can vary depending on experience and the specific employer. Here is a general breakdown of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,066.67 | $72,800.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Salt Lake City Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips as their primary role involves kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes, rather than direct customer interaction.
Head Chef Salary in Salt Lake City vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $27.00 per hour, which amounts to about $56,160.00 per year.
In Salt Lake City, Head Chefs earn slightly more than the national average, with an average hourly wage of $28.50 and a yearly salary of $59,280.00.
This above-average salary reflects regional demand and the local cost of living for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salt Lake City for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive pay for Head Chefs in the region:
- Downtown: $30.00 per hour
- Sugar House: $29.50 per hour
Head Chefs working in these neighborhoods may find higher compensation opportunities compared to other parts of Salt Lake City.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Salt Lake City?
Several factors influence the salary of a Head Chef:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Head Chefs with a strong skillset in managing kitchen staff and menu development can command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, and resorts often offer higher pay than casual dining or fast casual places.
- Reputation and Size of the Establishment: Established restaurants with high customer volumes usually provide better compensation.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary school training, food safety certifications, and management courses boost earning potential.
- Geographical Location: Salaries can fluctuate depending on cost of living and local demand in different parts of Salt Lake City.
How To Become a Head Chef in Salt Lake City
Becoming a Head Chef requires a combination of training, experience, and certifications:
- Complete Culinary Arts Education: Enroll in programs like the Salt Lake Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Park City Culinary Institute for comprehensive culinary training with hands-on experience.
- Obtain Key Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Manager Certification and the Utah Food Handler Permit are essential for complying with food safety regulations.
- Gain Industry Experience: Work in various kitchen roles such as line cook, sous chef, or chef de partie to build practical experience before stepping up to a Head Chef position.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Salt Lake City
Some of the notable employers looking for skilled Head Chefs in Salt Lake City are:
- The Grand America Hotel
- Sundance Resort
- Deer Valley Resort
Establishments That Head Chefs in Salt Lake City Work At
Head Chefs commonly work at a range of establishments, including casual dining restaurants, fine dining venues, hotels, and resort dining facilities.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with upscale and luxury venues typically offering higher wages due to greater responsibilities and customer expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salt Lake City for Head Chefs
If you are interested in exploring similar hospitality positions, consider the following related roles:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share responsibilities in managing kitchen operations and dining services.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Salt Lake City
Head Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Utah Department of Workforce Services offers state-specific resources about employment and workforce regulations.
- The official Salt Lake City government website can provide local employment and labor standards information.