Head Chef Salary in Tallahassee, FL
Head Chefs in Tallahassee, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $30.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,200.00 per week, $5,200.00 per month, and $62,400.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Tallahassee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy expansion in opportunities for culinary leadership within this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Tallahassee, FL?
The salary of a Head Chef in Tallahassee varies depending on experience and skill, with entry-level chefs earning less and top performers earning significantly more. Here's a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.15 | $606.00 | $2,621.00 | $31,512.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.84 | $913.60 | $3,946.27 | $47,507.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.15 | $1,486.00 | $6,406.67 | $77,272.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Tallahassee Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their roles are focused on kitchen management, menu creation, and overseeing the culinary team rather than direct customer service.
Head Chef Salary in Tallahassee vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn about $30.00 per hour, which sums to around $62,400 annually. The average salary in Tallahassee aligns with this national benchmark.
However, variations might occur due to local economic factors, restaurant types, and experience levels.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tallahassee for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive pay for Head Chefs:
- Downtown: $32.00 per hour
- Midtown: $31.50 per hour
These localized differences reflect the cost of doing business and clientele expectations in these parts of Tallahassee.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Tallahassee?
Several factors affect the earnings of a Head Chef in Tallahassee:
- Experience and Culinary Expertise: More experienced chefs command higher salaries due to their mastered skills and leadership capabilities.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels tend to pay better compared to casual dining or smaller venues.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and recognized certifications enhance earning potential.
- Location: Restaurants in higher-demand areas such as Downtown or Midtown often offer higher wages.
- Management Responsibilities: Chefs who take on larger kitchen teams and broader operational duties typically receive higher compensation.
How To Become a Head Chef in Tallahassee
Embarking on a career as a Head Chef in Tallahassee involves several key steps and educational paths:
- Culinary Education: Attending programs like the Keiser University Culinary Arts Program offers both academic and hands-on training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Specialized Training for Reentry: The REfire Culinary Reentry Program provides valuable on-the-job training and certifications, supporting individuals with felony convictions seeking careers in the culinary field.
- Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Manager Certification is essential for understanding and enforcing health regulations vital to a Head Chef's duties.
- Professional Recognition: Earning the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential from the American Culinary Federation highlights both culinary skills and managerial competence.
- Gaining Experience: Starting in kitchen roles like Cook or Sous Chef builds the expertise needed to manage a kitchen effectively.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Tallahassee
Several well-known establishments in Tallahassee actively seek skilled Head Chefs, including:
- Four Points by Sheraton
- Hotel Duval
- The Edison
- Table 23
- Kool Beanz Cafe
Establishments That Head Chefs in Tallahassee Work At
Head Chefs in Tallahassee typically find employment across various types of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest salaries due to the complexity and prestige of the cuisine and service.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations with banquet services often pay more and require diverse menu management skills.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: While pay may be lower, these venues provide good entry points for chefs honing management skills.
- Catering Companies: Often involve variable schedules and menu adaptations; salary varies widely.
The type of establishment significantly influences the Head Chef’s salary, reflecting the level of responsibility and culinary skill required.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tallahassee for Head Chefs
If you're exploring careers related to the position of Head Chef, consider the following roles:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager—all roles requiring culinary leadership but with different scopes and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Tallahassee
Understanding local and federal labor regulations helps Head Chefs navigate their employment rights and tax obligations:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive federal labor standards.
- The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation provides state-specific employment information.
- For local guidance, check the City of Tallahassee Official Website covering municipal regulations.