Head Chef Salary in Suffolk, VA
Head Chefs in Suffolk, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $45.00 per hour, equating to about $1,800.00 per week, $7,800.00 per month, and $93,600.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Suffolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising outlook for culinary professionals aspiring to leadership roles in kitchens across the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Suffolk, VA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Suffolk varies based on experience and employer size, but generally follows this range:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $39.00 | $1,560.00 | $6,760.00 | $81,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $45.00 | $1,800.00 | $7,800.00 | $93,600.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $55.00 | $2,200.00 | $9,533.33 | $114,400.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Suffolk Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves managing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation mostly comes through salary and bonuses.
Head Chef Salary in Suffolk, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of about $48.00 per hour, translating to roughly $99,840.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Suffolk earn slightly less at $45.00 per hour and $93,600.00 per year, which could reflect regional economic factors and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Suffolk for Head Chefs
Nearby areas where Head Chefs can earn more include:
- Downtown Suffolk: $47.00 per hour
- Harbour View: $50.00 per hour
These neighborhoods provide higher compensation likely due to upscale or high-demand establishments.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Suffolk, VA?
The salary for a Head Chef in Suffolk can depend on several key factors:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More seasoned chefs with strong leadership and kitchen management skills generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and resorts often pay more compared to casual dining spots.
- Specialized Culinary Skills: Expertise in a particular cuisine or advanced culinary techniques can increase salary potential.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary degrees or industry-recognized certifications often help boost earnings.
- Location: Proximity to urban centers or affluent neighborhoods usually influences salary levels.
How To Become a Head Chef in Suffolk, VA
Becoming a Head Chef requires a blend of formal education, experience, and skill development. Key steps include:
- Complete a Culinary Arts Associate Degree Program: For example, the Culinary Institute of Virginia offers a practical Associate Degree in Culinary Arts near Suffolk, providing essential theoretical knowledge and hands-on training.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Obtaining credentials such as the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates advanced cooking and leadership abilities.
- Gain Extensive Kitchen Experience: Working through roles like line cook or sous chef is critical to mastering culinary skills and kitchen management.
- Develop Leadership and Business Skills: Head Chefs often manage teams and budgets, so experience or training in these areas is beneficial.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Suffolk, VA
Several organizations in Suffolk frequently seek qualified Head Chefs, including:
- Aramark
- Virginia Peninsula Foodbank
- Delta Hotel - Norfolk
Establishments That Head Chefs in Suffolk Work At
Head Chefs commonly find employment in various types of establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often offer higher wages reflecting the complexity and prestige of the cuisine.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues may offer competitive pay with additional benefits due to scale of operations.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These typically provide moderate salary levels but can offer opportunities for career growth.
- Catering and Event Companies: Work here may include event planning and large volume food preparation, with pay varying widely.
Salary can differ greatly depending on the prestige and scale of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Suffolk, VA for Head Chef
Those interested in similar career paths to Head Chef might consider roles such as Executive Chef, Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager, which involve related skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Suffolk, VA
Understanding labor regulations and tax obligations is vital for Head Chefs to navigate employment rights and responsibilities.
- Review Virginia's labor laws at the Virginia government website, which provides resources on wages, working hours, and employment protections.
- For federal labor standards and employment regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.