Head Chef in Tyler, TX
Head Chefs in Tyler, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $18.04 per hour, which translates to about $721.60 per week, $3,126.93 per month, and $37,523.20 per year.
Job demand for the role of Head Chef in Tyler is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals seeking to advance in this field in the area.
How Much Does Head Chef Make in Tyler, TX?
The salary of a Head Chef in Tyler can vary considerably based on experience and the establishment, but generally falls within the following ranges across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.12 | $604.80 | $2,616.80 | $31,401.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.04 | $721.60 | $3,126.93 | $37,523.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.83 | $1,073.20 | $4,655.07 | $55,763.20 |
Do Head Chefs in Tyler Earn Tips?
Head Chefs usually do not earn tips as their primary responsibilities are in kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is typically steady salaries or wages without tip income.
Head Chef Salary in Tyler vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $29.32 per hour, equating to approximately $60,985.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Tyler earn somewhat less, with an hourly rate of about $18.04 and an annual salary near $37,523.20. This difference likely reflects the lower cost of living and market conditions in Tyler relative to larger metropolitan areas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tyler for Head Chefs
Exploring nearby areas, Head Chefs can expect slightly higher pay in these locations:
- Downtown Tyler: $19.50 per hour
- South Tyler: $20.00 per hour
These neighborhoods offer competitive wages that may attract culinary talent willing to commute or relocate for increased earnings.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Tyler?
Several key factors can impact a Head Chef's earning potential in Tyler:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More seasoned Head Chefs with proven expertise and diverse cooking styles often command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and country clubs tend to offer better compensation compared to casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification or Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential can boost earning potential.
- Management Responsibilities: Head Chefs overseeing larger kitchen teams or multiple locations often earn more due to increased duties.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Regional factors influence salary scales, with Tyler's market reflecting its specific living cost and demand.
How To Become a Head Chef in Tyler
Becoming a Head Chef in Tyler involves developing culinary competencies and gaining leadership experience. Here are a few steps geared toward this goal:
- Complete culinary training programs such as those offered at the Tyler ISD Career & Technology Center Culinary Arts Program or the TJC Culinary Arts Program, which provide hands-on experience and foundational knowledge.
- Earn key certifications including the ServSafe Food Manager Certification to demonstrate food safety knowledge, and consider obtaining advanced recognition like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification awarded by the American Culinary Federation.
- Gain practical kitchen experience by starting in roles such as line cook or sous chef to build skills and learn kitchen operations.
- Develop leadership and management skills to effectively oversee kitchen staff, manage inventory, and coordinate with front-of-house teams.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Tyler
Several prominent companies in Tyler actively seek skilled Head Chefs, including:
- Brookshire Grocery Company
- Hollytree Country Club
- Piada
Establishments That Head Chefs in Tyler Work At
Head Chefs in Tyler typically find employment across a variety of settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer regular hours and moderate salaries, suitable for Head Chefs developing their leadership.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Such restaurants usually provide higher pay and require refined culinary skills and creativity.
- Country Clubs and Hotels: These venues generally offer competitive wages with benefits and opportunities for career growth.
- Corporate and Institutional Kitchens: Places like large corporations or schools may employ Head Chefs with stable schedules but varying pay scales.
The nature of the establishment influences salary, with upscale or large-scale operations typically paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tyler for Head Chefs
If you are interested in roles similar to Head Chef, consider exploring these related jobs that share overlapping skills and career paths:
These include Executive Chef, Restaurant Manager, and Chef positions, offering alternate routes within the culinary and hospitality industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Tyler
It is important for Head Chefs working in Tyler to understand applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on wage and hour standards and other employment laws.
- Visit the Texas workforce and labor information website to access state-specific labor rules, workplace safety guidance, and unemployment resources.
- The Local government website for Tyler provides city ordinances, employment resources, and tax information relevant to workers and employers.