Head Chef Salary in Wichita Falls, TX
Head Chefs in Wichita Falls, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $17.52 per hour, which translates to about $700.80 per week, $3,036.80 per month, and $36,441.60 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Wichita Falls is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary leadership and kitchen management roles in the region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Wichita Falls, TX?
The salary of a Head Chef in Wichita Falls varies depending on experience, skills, and the establishment, but here is a breakdown across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.49 | $459.60 | $1,985.20 | $23,899.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.52 | $700.80 | $3,036.80 | $36,441.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.22 | $1,208.80 | $5,224.53 | $62,857.60 |
Do Head Chefs in Wichita Falls Earn Tips?
Typically, Head Chefs do not earn tips as their primary role is managing kitchen operations and overseeing food preparation rather than customer service. Their compensation is largely salary or hourly based.
Head Chef Salary in Wichita Falls vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $19.23 per hour, equating to approximately $39,998.40 per year.
When compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Wichita Falls earn slightly less at $17.52 per hour and $36,441.60 annually. This gap can be due to regional living cost differences and local economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wichita Falls for Head Chefs
Nearby regions offer the following hourly wages for Head Chefs:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Sikes Senter: $19.00 per hour
Head Chefs working in Sikes Senter tend to earn the highest wages in the area compared to Downtown, making it an attractive location for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Wichita Falls?
The salary of a Head Chef in Wichita Falls depends on various factors:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More years managing kitchens and specialized cooking expertise generally lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies often provide better salaries than casual dining venues.
- Leadership Responsibilities: Head Chefs who manage larger teams and handle menu development usually earn more.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials such as a Certified Executive Chef (CEC) or formal culinary training enhance salary potential.
- Local Demand and Economic Conditions: Regional industry growth and competition affect wage levels.
How To Become a Head Chef in Wichita Falls
To pursue a career as a Head Chef in Wichita Falls, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like Vernon College offer a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program with training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning.
- Study Hospitality Management: Midwestern State University provides a Hospitality Management Program including courses in food service operations and business management, equipping you for leadership roles.
- Obtain Certifications: The ServSafe Food Manager Certification is essential for food safety knowledge. Earning the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential by the American Culinary Federation showcases advanced culinary competence.
- Gain Work Experience: Start working in kitchens to develop skills and progress from junior positions to Head Chef roles.
- Develop Leadership and Organizational Skills: Success as a Head Chef requires managing staff, budgeting, and ensuring smooth kitchen operations.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Wichita Falls
Several prominent restaurants and dining establishments frequently seek qualified Head Chefs:
- The Highlander Public House
- Pelican's Restaurant
- McBride's Steakhouse
Establishments That Head Chefs in Wichita Falls Work At
Head Chefs commonly work in a variety of settings including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offering the highest pay due to complex menus and high service standards.
- Casual Dining and Fast Casual: These locations provide moderate pay and may offer faster career progression.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide stable employment and higher wage scales, especially for banquet and event culinary leadership.
- Catering Services: Head Chefs here may earn more based on event volume and clientele.
The type of establishment determines kitchen size, responsibility level, and consequently salary differences for Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wichita Falls for Head Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to the Head Chef role, consider exploring similar positions that involve culinary expertise and kitchen leadership.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Wichita Falls
Head Chefs should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and local labor laws and tax requirements to ensure proper compliance and workplace standards.
- For state-specific labor regulations, visit the Official website of the State of Texas.
- To learn about local workforce policies and permits, check the City of Wichita Falls official website.
- For comprehensive information on federal labor laws, including wages and hours, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.