Culinary Specialist Salaries & Top Paying Companies in Irvine, CA

Position

City

Salary

How much does a Culinary Specialist make in Irvine, CA?

The average salary for a Culinary Specialist is $49,998 per year in Irvine, CA.

Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Culinary Specialist jobs in Irvine, CA, showing an average salary of $49,998 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Culinary Specialist jobs in Irvine, CA, showing an average salary of $4,166 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Culinary Specialist jobs in Irvine, CA, showing an average salary of $962 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Culinary Specialist jobs in Irvine, CA, showing an average salary of $24 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Irvine, California, a Culinary Specialist can expect to earn an average yearly salary of around $49,998. This figure represents the middle point of the range of salaries that Culinary Specialists in the area receive. This average provides a useful benchmark for job seekers considering this career path.

Culinary Specialists in Irvine, CA, can earn salaries that vary widely. The lowest 10 percent of earners make about $42,860, while the top 10 percent earn approximately $87,500 annually. This wide range reflects the diversity of opportunities within the profession, from entry-level positions to more senior roles. It also highlights the potential for career growth and salary increase with experience and skill development.

What are the highest paying cities for a Culinary Specialist near Irvine, CA?

Culinary specialists in the Irvine, CA area can find excellent job opportunities in nearby cities with high average salaries. Brea, CA, leads with an average salary of $57,031, followed closely by Fullerton, CA, at $56,923. These cities offer competitive wages, making them attractive for culinary professionals seeking a rewarding career. Orange, CA, Huntington Beach, CA, and Anaheim, CA, also provide attractive salaries for culinary specialists, making the region a valuable place to explore for job seekers. Newport Beach, CA, with $48,312, and Laguna Niguel, CA, with $44,229, round out the list, each offering a unique opportunity to thrive in the culinary field.

Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Culinary Specialist jobs near Irvine, CA, highlighting Brea, CA with the highest at $57,031 and Costa Mesa, CA with the lowest at $42,695.

Brea, CA
Average Salary: $57,031
In Brea, culinary professionals thrive with ample opportunities in various dining establishments. Well-known restaurants often seek skilled chefs to enhance their menu offerings. The community's diverse palate offers chefs a dynamic environment to showcase their talent.
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Fullerton, CA
Average Salary: $56,923
Fullerton offers a vibrant food scene with numerous cafes and restaurants looking for culinary talent. The city's college atmosphere often brings fresh ideas and diverse tastes to the kitchen. Experienced chefs find a welcoming environment in Fullerton's bustling eateries.
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Orange, CA
Average Salary: $56,350
Orange is known for its dynamic culinary environment. Local restaurants and hotels offer opportunities for chefs to create innovative dishes. The city’s growing food culture provides a fertile ground for culinary creativity and professional growth.
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Huntington Beach, CA
Average Salary: $52,281
Huntington Beach presents a lively culinary landscape with many beachside eateries. Chefs here enjoy working in a relaxed yet creative environment, often blending coastal flavors into their dishes. The city’s diverse dining options offer plenty of chances for chefs to shine.
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Anaheim, CA
Average Salary: $50,200
Anaheim's culinary field is bustling, especially with its numerous theme parks and attractions. Chefs can find opportunities to create meals that cater to a diverse crowd. The city's vibrant dining scene offers many avenues for culinary innovation and professional development.
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Mission Viejo, CA
Average Salary: $48,737
Mission Viejo offers a range of culinary positions in family-style restaurants and cafes. Chefs here appreciate the city's strong emphasis on quality and service. The community’s focus on fresh, local ingredients provides a great setting for culinary excellence.
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Newport Beach, CA
Average Salary: $48,312
Newport Beach provides a chic culinary environment with upscale restaurants and fine dining. Chefs enjoy the city’s appreciation for gourmet cuisine and attention to detail. The refined dining scene allows for creative expression and professional growth.
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Laguna Niguel, CA
Average Salary: $44,229
Laguna Niguel presents a tranquil yet vibrant culinary scene. Restaurants here often focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Chefs find a supportive environment where they can develop and refine their culinary skills.
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Costa Mesa, CA
Average Salary: $42,695
Costa Mesa offers a dynamic culinary landscape with a mix of local and international flavors. Chefs here appreciate the city's creative spirit and diverse dining options. The vibrant food culture provides many opportunities for culinary innovation and career advancement.
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What are the best paying companies for a Culinary Specialist in Irvine, CA?

Oakmont Senior Living offers one of the best salaries for Culinary Specialists in Irvine, CA, with an average of $84,500. This company provides a rewarding opportunity for those skilled in preparing meals for seniors. CAVA offers a solid average salary of $44,750 for Culinary Specialists, making it a competitive option for those seeking a balance between pay and job satisfaction. Sweetgreen also provides a respectable average salary of $42,860 for Culinary Specialists in Irvine. This role offers a chance to work in a dynamic environment focused on fresh, healthy food options.

Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Culinary Specialist jobs in Irvine, CA, highlighting Oakmont Senior Living with the highest at $84,500 and sweetgreen with the lowest at $42,860.

Oakmont Senior Living
Average Salary: $84,500
Oakmont Senior Living in Irvine, CA, offers exciting opportunities for Culinary Specialists. This company operates several senior living communities. Culinary Specialists here prepare delicious meals and snacks for residents. They work in well-equipped kitchens with a focus on quality and care.
CAVA
Average Salary: $44,750
CAVA is known for its fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes. In Irvine, CA, Culinary Specialists create a variety of delicious meals. They work in bustling environments and focus on making each dish fresh and tasty. CAVA values teamwork and skill in creating great meals for customers.
sweetgreen
Average Salary: $42,860
sweetgreen provides a unique dining experience with fresh, healthy meals. Culinary Specialists at sweetgreen in Irvine, CA, prepare a range of salads, bowls, and sides. They work in a fast-paced setting and focus on healthy, delicious options. The company supports creativity and healthy eating.

What are the best paying Culinary Specialist related jobs in Irvine, CA?

Culinary specialists in Irvine, CA, have excellent opportunities in several high-paying roles. Food and Beverage Managers lead teams in upscale settings, earning a top salary of around $90,000. Food Service Directors manage large-scale operations and often enjoy a salary of about $71,000. Restaurant Managers oversee daily restaurant operations and can expect to earn close to $66,000. Exploring other roles, Sous Chefs, who assist head chefs, can earn approximately $58,000. Catering Managers, who handle event food services, see salaries around $56,000. Pastry Chefs create delicious desserts for customers and typically earn about $53,000. This range offers diverse and lucrative career paths for culinary professionals.

Graph displaying best paying related job salaries for Culinary Specialist jobs near Irvine, CA, highlighting Food and Beverage Manager with the highest at $89,889 and Restaurant Manager with the lowest at $66,081.

Food and Beverage Manager
Average Salary: $89,889
Lead kitchen staff and manage food quality at top restaurants. Oversee menu planning and inventory. Ensure smooth operation in high-end dining settings. Companies like Hyatt and Ritz-Carlton often seek qualified managers.
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Food Service Director
Average Salary: $71,327
Plan and oversee food service operations in hospitals and other large institutions. Ensure meals meet dietary needs. Work with chefs and kitchen staff to maintain high standards. Major employers include Kaiser Permanente and St. Joseph Health.
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Health Coach
Average Salary: $70,000
Help clients achieve their health goals through nutrition. Provide meal planning and cooking demonstrations. Work with gyms or wellness centers like Life Time Athletic. Focus on healthy eating habits and lifestyle changes.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $66,081
Oversee day-to-day operations of a restaurant. Manage staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and handle budgets. Work at independent eateries or chains like In-N-Out Burger. A strong background in hospitality is key.
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Culinary Specialist Salary in Irvine, CA

How much does a Culinary Specialist make in Irvine, CA?

What are the highest paying cities for a Culinary Specialist near Irvine, CA?

What are the best paying companies for a Culinary Specialist in Irvine, CA?

Currently 127 Culinary Specialist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Culinary Specialist in the US?

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