Head Chef Salary in St. Louis, MO
Head Chefs in St. Louis, MO, earn approximately $28.58 per hour, which amounts to about $1,143.20 per week, $4,953.87 per month, and $59,446.40 per year.
The job outlook for Head Chefs in St. Louis is positive, with the position expected to grow by about 5% per year, indicating a steady demand for skilled professionals in culinary leadership roles.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Head Chef in St. Louis varies based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Here's a breakdown of earnings at different levels of experience to give a better picture.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.92 | $876.80 | $3,794.93 | $45,575.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.58 | $1,143.20 | $4,953.87 | $59,446.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.24 | $1,489.60 | $6,424.27 | $77,299.20 |
Do Head Chefs in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Their compensation primarily comes from their salary or hourly wage rather than tips.
Head Chef Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $30.74, which translates to approximately $63,939.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in St. Louis earn slightly less at $28.58 per hour and about $59,446.40 annually. This difference reflects regional economic factors and local demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Head Chefs
Nearby establishments offering higher salaries for Head Chefs include:
- Sidney Street Cafe: $35 per hour
- The Crossing: $34 per hour
These nearby venues may offer better pay and could be attractive options for experienced Head Chefs looking for higher compensation.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several key factors affect the salary potential of Head Chefs in St. Louis:
- Experience and Culinary Expertise: More seasoned chefs with diverse culinary skills earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to pay more than casual dining or fast-casual places.
- Management Responsibilities: Head Chefs who supervise large teams or multiple kitchens command higher salaries.
- Certifications and Education: Professional certifications and culinary degrees can enhance earning potential.
- Location and Demand: Salaries vary by neighborhood and the competitive market for top culinary talent.
How To Become a Head Chef in St. Louis
Advancing to a Head Chef position involves a combination of education, certifications, and experience.
- Formal Culinary Education: Completing programs such as the St. Louis Community College Culinary Arts Program or earning a diploma from L'École Culinaire can provide a solid foundation.
- Certification: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Manager Certification is often required to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
- Professional Credentials: Earning the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification from the American Culinary Federation enhances credibility and demonstrates culinary leadership skills.
- Hands-On Experience: Gaining experience in various kitchen roles, including line cook and sous chef, prepares candidates for head chef responsibilities.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in St. Louis
Popular employers seeking skilled Head Chefs in St. Louis include:
- Sidney Street Cafe
- The Crossing
- Vicia
Establishments That Head Chefs in St. Louis Work At
Head Chefs work in a wide variety of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often offer the highest salaries due to their premium clientele and complex menus.
- Casual Dining: These venues provide steady work but usually lower pay compared to fine dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: Pay and benefits can be competitive, especially in luxury settings with extensive food services.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: May have varying pay depending on the scale and prestige of events served.
The diversity of establishments affects a Head Chef’s salary, with upscale locations generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Head Chef
If you are interested in roles related to the Head Chef position, consider these alternatives in St. Louis:
These positions include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, all of which share culinary and management responsibilities similar to the Head Chef role.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in St. Louis
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Head Chefs working in St. Louis.
- For detailed information on federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Missouri-specific regulations, including employment standards and workers' rights, see the Missouri Department of Labor website.