Head Chef Salary in Spokane, WA
Head Chefs in Spokane, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $34.30 per hour, which translates to about $1,372.00 per week, $5,945.33 per month, and $71,344.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Spokane is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for those seeking to enter or advance in this profession in the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Spokane, WA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Spokane varies based on experience and skill level. Here’s a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $30.60 | $1,224.00 | $5,293.60 | $63,648.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $34.30 | $1,372.00 | $5,945.33 | $71,344.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.50 | $1,540.00 | $6,653.33 | $79,840.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Spokane Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes, focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings usually come entirely from their salary or wages.
Head Chef Salary in Spokane vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $32.00 per hour, which translates to about $66,560.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Spokane earn somewhat more, with an average hourly wage of $34.30 and an annual salary of $71,344.00. This higher pay in Spokane may reflect local demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offering competitive salaries for Head Chefs include:
- Downtown Spokane: $35.00 per hour
- South Hill: $36.00 per hour
These areas typically boast a variety of dining establishments, which supports the demand for skilled Head Chefs and higher pay.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Spokane?
Several factors influence how much a Head Chef can earn in Spokane:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Head Chefs with advanced cooking techniques and leadership abilities typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels generally pay more compared to casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Management Responsibilities: Head Chefs overseeing larger teams or multiple kitchen operations often receive higher compensation.
- Reputation and Awards: Chefs recognized for their culinary excellence or with a following may negotiate better pay.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can enhance salary prospects.
How To Become a Head Chef in Spokane
Achieving a leadership role as a Head Chef involves a combination of education, certification, and experience:
- Culinary Training Programs: Pursuing training at institutions such as the Inland Northwest Culinary Academy at Spokane Community College provides foundational and advanced culinary skills.
- Hospitality Management Education: Programs like Gonzaga University’s Hospitality Management Program prepare aspiring chefs with management knowledge alongside culinary arts.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining a Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory to ensure safe food handling practices.
- Professional Certification: Earning designations like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) recognizes culinary proficiency and leadership.
- Hands-on Experience: Working through kitchen roles such as Sous Chef or Chef de Partie helps build expertise and readiness for the Head Chef position.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Spokane
Some prominent establishments currently hiring Head Chefs in Spokane include:
- Wild Sage Bistro
- Clinkerdagger
- Mizuna
Establishments That Head Chefs in Spokane Work At
Head Chefs find employment in a range of dining environments, each affecting salary potential:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Tend to offer the highest salaries due to complex menus and high customer expectations.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Eateries: These establishments may pay less but provide faster-paced kitchen experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often employ Head Chefs to manage large-scale food operations, sometimes with accompanying benefits.
- Catering Services: Opportunities for Head Chefs to earn through event-focused culinary management.
The prestige, size, and clientele of the establishment can greatly influence earnings and career growth chances.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane for Head Chefs
For those interested in related career paths, roles similar to Head Chef include:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions, each with their own responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Spokane
Head Chefs should be familiar with local and federal labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and manage their careers smoothly.
- Consult the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries - state labor laws and workplace rights for regulations specific to Washington.
- Review federal labor standards and rights through the U.S. Department of Labor.