Head Chef Salary in Scottsdale, AZ
Head Chefs in Scottsdale, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $31.73 per hour, which translates to about $1,269.20 per week, $5,499.87 per month, and $65,998.40 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Scottsdale is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals and restaurant leadership roles in the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Scottsdale, AZ?
The salary of a Head Chef in Scottsdale can vary depending on experience, skill level, and the type of establishment they work at. Here's a breakdown based on experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,167.47 | $50,003.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.73 | $1,269.20 | $5,499.87 | $65,998.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $43.32 | $1,732.80 | $7,493.87 | $89,961.60 |
Do Head Chefs in Scottsdale Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in kitchen management and food preparation. Their compensation is generally based on salary or hourly wages, rather than gratuities.
Head Chef Salary in Scottsdale, AZ vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of approximately $30.74 per hour, or about $63,939.20 per year.
When compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Scottsdale earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $31.73 and annual earnings of about $65,998.40. This difference may reflect regional cost of living, culinary industry demand, and Scottsdale's vibrant tourism and dining scene.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Scottsdale for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Head Chefs as well:
- North Scottsdale: $35.00 per hour
- Old Town Scottsdale: $33.50 per hour
Those willing to commute to North Scottsdale may find better pay opportunities compared to Old Town Scottsdale, but both areas offer attractive salaries above the city average.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Scottsdale?
Several factors influence the salary of a Head Chef in Scottsdale, including:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced chefs with advanced cooking techniques and leadership abilities tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, luxury hotels, and resorts often pay more than casual dining spots or fast food outlets.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary training and certifications such as Certified Executive Chef can boost earning potential.
- Management Responsibilities: Chefs overseeing larger teams or additional kitchen operations typically earn more.
- Local Market Demand: Scottsdale's status as a tourist destination can affect salaries due to demand for quality dining experiences.
How To Become a Head Chef in Scottsdale
The path to becoming a Head Chef involves a mix of training, experience, and certifications:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program and Arizona Culinary Institute offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Manager Certification are often required and emphasize knowledge of food safety practices.
- Advance Through Experience: Many Head Chefs begin as line cooks or sous chefs and work their way up by gaining leadership skills and expertise.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrate advanced culinary skills and leadership, helping to enhance career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Scottsdale
Scottsdale hosts many renowned establishments where Head Chefs can find rewarding careers, including:
- Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa
- The Phoenician Resort
- Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
- Olive & Ivy
- FnB Restaurant
Establishments That Head Chefs in Scottsdale Work At
Head Chefs in Scottsdale typically work at a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest pay levels due to quality expectations and clientele.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: These establishments often provide competitive salaries along with benefits and career growth opportunities.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These may pay less but can offer valuable experience and more flexible work conditions.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Work here may vary, with pay influenced by event scale and frequency.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Head Chef's salary, with upscale dining and resort settings generally offering more lucrative compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Scottsdale for Head Chefs
Professionals interested in the culinary and hospitality fields similar to Head Chef might consider these related roles:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, which share overlapping skills and can offer alternative career paths within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Scottsdale
Understanding applicable labor laws and taxation is important for Head Chefs to ensure compliance and fair wages.
- Information on state health regulations and food safety guidelines can be found at the Arizona Department of Health Services.
- Business development and workforce resources are offered by the Arizona Commerce Authority.
- Federal labor laws and employment standards are available from the U.S. Department of Labor.