Chef

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Work Tasks

• Make meals that taste and look good and are healthy
• Measure, mix, and cook the food
• Tell other kitchen workers what to do, plan work schedules, and make sure everything is kept clean
• Order the food and supplies for the restaurant and plan the menus
• Work in kitchens for restaurants, schools, hospitals, health institutions, grocery stores, hotels, and other places which serve food
• Work with all kinds of food, recipes, menus, ovens, broilers, grills, slicers, grinders, blenders, pots, pans, knives, and various other kitchen utensils

Salary, Size & Growth

• $51,500 average per year ($24.75 per hour)
• A medium occupation (90,500 workers in 2010)
• Expected to not change (0.0% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: Many years of experience preparing a variety of foods and a health certificate
• Employers Prefer: A reputation as an expert in cooking certain types of food
• Skills/Courses: Chef training is a good way to get started. You can complete a 2-year, 4-year degree, or a 3-year apprenticeship. New graduates join the cooking staff as assistants and show their skill in quickly preparing food that looks and tastes good.
• Licensing/Certification: A variety of certifications are available.