Head Chef Salary in Spokane-Valley, WA
Head Chefs in Spokane-Valley, WA, earn approximately $23.41 per hour, which translates to about $936.40 per week, $4,057.73 per month, and $48,692.80 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Spokane-Valley is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for those interested in culinary leadership roles in the area.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Spokane-Valley, WA?
The salary for a Head Chef in Spokane-Valley varies based on experience, skills, and the establishment, but here’s a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.01 | $760.40 | $3,286.93 | $39,467.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.41 | $936.40 | $4,057.73 | $48,692.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.83 | $1,153.20 | $5,004.80 | $60,166.40 |
Do Head Chefs in Spokane-Valley Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily in the kitchen managing food preparation and staff, rather than direct customer service. Their compensation mostly comes from their salary.
Head Chef Salary in Spokane-Valley vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn around $19.68 per hour, which equates to about $40,934.40 per year.
Comparatively, Head Chefs in Spokane-Valley earn a higher hourly wage of $23.41 and an annual salary of $48,692.80, suggesting that the area offers competitive compensation for culinary leadership roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane-Valley for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly higher salaries for Head Chefs:
- Downtown Spokane Valley: $24.50 per hour
- Liberty Lake: $25.00 per hour
Those willing to commute or relocate to Liberty Lake or Downtown Spokane Valley could earn more than the average in Spokane-Valley itself.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Spokane-Valley?
Several factors have a significant impact on the salary of a Head Chef in Spokane-Valley:
- Experience and Expertise: Head Chefs with extensive culinary experience and leadership skills typically command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies generally offer better salaries compared to casual dining venues.
- Specialized Skills: Knowledge in cuisine specialties or kitchen management can enhance earning potential.
- Size of the Kitchen and Staff: Managing a larger team or kitchen often results in higher compensation.
- Local Market Demand: The demand for quality culinary leadership in the region will influence salary levels.
How To Become a Head Chef in Spokane-Valley
Becoming a Head Chef in Spokane-Valley involves several key steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Training: Programs such as the Inland Northwest Culinary Academy at Spokane Community College or the Sun Valley Culinary Institute provide solid foundational and advanced culinary education.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Food safety is critical, and certifications like the Food Handler's Permit required by Washington State and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification are often necessary.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Working through roles such as line cook or sous chef helps build the skills needed to manage a kitchen successfully.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Effective management of kitchen staff and operations is key for advancement to Head Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Spokane-Valley
Some prominent employers in Spokane-Valley offering Head Chef positions include:
- Wild Sage Bistro
- Clinkerdagger
- Mizuna
- The Onion Bar & Grill
- The Blackbird Tavern
Establishments That Head Chefs in Spokane-Valley Work At
Head Chefs in Spokane-Valley find work across various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically the highest pay due to complex menus and premium clientele.
- Casual Dining and Bistros: Moderate pay with a focus on a variety of dishes and customer preferences.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May offer stable employment and competitive salaries with benefits.
- Specialty and Ethnic Restaurants: Opportunities to apply unique culinary expertise; pay varies by prestige and demand.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly affect the earning potential of a Head Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane-Valley for Head Chefs
Those interested in careers similar to Head Chef might consider related roles in the culinary and hospitality fields, which offer different opportunities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Spokane-Valley
It's important for Head Chefs to understand the regulations related to labor laws and taxes at the federal, state, and local levels.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor laws and worker rights.
- Check the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries for state-specific employment regulations and workplace safety standards.
- For local government resources and information, access the Spokane County official site.