Chef Jobs in NYC – October 2024 Job Listings
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, New York City offers a vibrant culinary scene that’s second to none. From Michelin-starred restaurants to trendy eateries, the Big Apple is the place to be for both aspiring and experienced Chefs.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 11 Chef jobs in NYC, including details on salaries, qualifications and benefits.
Top 11 Chef Jobs in New York City
Take a look at these highly recommended Chef jobs in the New York metropolitan area.
Note: Salaries for Chef positions are often negotiable and may not always be explicitly stated in job ads.
How Much Can You Earn from Chef Jobs in NYC?
The average hourly wage for a Chef in New York City is $33.68, which adds up to a yearly salary of $70,060. This is 11.85% higher than the national average of $62,640.
Legal Requirements Applicable to Chef Jobs in NYC
As a Chef working in New York City, you are subject to various labor laws and regulations that protect your rights and govern your employment. Here are some key legal requirements to be aware of:
Minimum wage
As of 2024, the minimum wage for non-tipped employees in New York City is $16.00 per hour. This is the base pay you must receive as a Chef.
Paid safe and sick leave
According to the NYC Paid Safe and Sick Leave Law, the following provisions apply:
| Employer Type | Leave Entitlement |
| 100+ employees | Up to 56 hours of paid leave annually |
| 5 to 99 employees | Up to 40 hours of paid leave annually |
| 4 or fewer employees, net income ≥ $1 million | Up to 40 hours of paid leave annually |
| 4 or fewer employees, net income < $1 million | Up to 40 hours of unpaid leave annually |
| 1 or more domestic workers | Up to 40 hours of paid leave annually |
| 100+ domestic workers | Up to 56 hours of paid leave annually |
Uniform and equipment regulations
Employers in the state of New York must provide or reimburse employees for uniforms and cover maintenance costs, including laundering. No maintenance pay is needed for “wash and wear” uniforms that don’t require special care.
Employers can also establish a dress code that does not require them to purchase or maintain clothing, as long as this is regular street clothing and not specific uniforms.
If the dress code requires specific branded clothing or uniforms, the employer must cover the costs.
FAQs About Chef Jobs in NYC
The job market for Chefs in New York City is highly competitive due to the city’s lively food scene and high demand for talented culinary professionals.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 5% growth in chef positions from 2022 to 2032, which means there will be more opportunities over time. However, with so many aspiring Chefs aiming for these roles, the competition is still intense.
Neighborhoods that are particularly popular among Chefs looking for a job include Chinatown, East Village, Williamsburg, Greenwich Village, Hell’s Kitchen and Flushing.
Applicants for a Chef position in New York City might face the following interview questions:
- “What do you know about the culinary scene and food trends in NYC?”
- “What are some of your favorite NYC restaurants, and why?”
- “Given how expensive groceries can be in NYC, how do you handle ingredient costs and stay on budget?”
How We Picked These Chef Jobs in NYC
We have selected the top Chef jobs in New York City based on the following criteria:
- Comprehensive benefits: We prioritized roles offering extensive benefits, including food discounts, commuter benefits, health, dental and vision insurance, paid time off and retirement plans.
- Competitive salary: We picked jobs that offer attractive and competitive compensation.
- Reputable employers: We focused on opportunities with employers known for their stability and good reputation.
