How much does a Culinary Specialist make?
A Culinary Specialist plays a key role in preparing meals for people in various settings. They work in restaurants, hotels, schools, and even the military. The average yearly salary for a Culinary Specialist is around $39,010. This means that, on average, they earn a decent amount each year.
The salary can vary based on experience and location. For example, those with more experience often earn more. Culinary Specialists in big cities might also earn more than those in smaller towns. The lowest 10% of earners make about $30,000 a year, while the top 10% make around $82,500. This shows there is a wide range of earning potential in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Culinary Specialist?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $68,570
In Washington, DC, culinary professionals enjoy a vibrant food scene. Many work in high-end restaurants and hotels. Companies like The Ritz-Carlton offer exciting opportunities.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $66,346
Riverside, CA, offers a dynamic culinary environment. Many chefs work in local restaurants and cafes. The city's diverse population creates a rich culinary culture.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $49,706
Seattle, WA, is known for its coffee culture and seafood. Culinary specialists often work in trendy restaurants and food trucks. Companies like Starbucks provide notable career paths.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $49,130
Boston, MA, has a rich culinary history. Many chefs work in historic restaurants and modern eateries. The city's food scene is vibrant and diverse.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $48,881
Los Angeles, CA, offers a diverse culinary landscape. Many chefs work in Hollywood restaurants and trendy food spots. The city's multicultural environment is a culinary delight.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $43,474
San Diego, CA, boasts a lively food scene. Many culinary professionals work in beachside restaurants and cafes. The city's fresh seafood is a major draw.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $43,243
Chicago, IL, is famous for its deep-dish pizza and barbecue. Culinary specialists often work in iconic restaurants and food festivals. The city's culinary scene is diverse and exciting.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $43,089
Denver, CO, offers a growing culinary scene. Many chefs work in local restaurants and food trucks. The city's food culture is vibrant and innovative.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $41,839
Boulder, CO, is known for its health-conscious food scene. Many culinary professionals work in organic restaurants and cafes. The city's focus on fresh, local ingredients is notable.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $41,070
Portland, OR, is a food lover's paradise. Many chefs work in trendy restaurants and food carts. The city's emphasis on sustainability and local produce is prominent.
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What are the best companies a Culinary Specialist can work for?

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Oakmont Senior Living
Average Salary: $83,955
Oakmont Senior Living offers rewarding Culinary Specialist jobs. They focus on providing excellent dining experiences in senior living communities. They operate in various locations across the United States, ensuring a wide range of opportunities for culinary professionals.
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Goodwin Recruiting
Average Salary: $68,273
Goodwin Recruiting places Culinary Specialists in top-tier positions. They work with a variety of clients, including restaurants, hotels, and private clubs. Their placements span across the country, offering diverse culinary experiences.
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Culinary Institute of America
Average Salary: $60,000
The Culinary Institute of America offers Culinary Specialist jobs with a focus on education and training. They have campuses in Hyde Park, New York, and Napa Valley, California, providing unique culinary environments.
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Great Wolf Lodge
Average Salary: $44,538
Great Wolf Lodge offers exciting Culinary Specialist jobs in family-friendly resorts. They have locations across the United States, providing a fun and dynamic work environment for culinary professionals.
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Monarch Healthcare Management
Average Salary: $44,000
Monarch Healthcare Management provides Culinary Specialist jobs in senior living communities. They focus on creating a warm and welcoming dining experience. Their facilities are located in various states across the U.S.
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Tommy Bahama
Average Salary: $43,620
Tommy Bahama offers Culinary Specialist jobs in their casual dining restaurants. They have locations in many states, providing a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere for culinary professionals.
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CSC Generation
Average Salary: $41,803
CSC Generation offers Culinary Specialist jobs in various dining settings. They focus on creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. Their locations are spread across the United States.
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CAVA
Average Salary: $39,738
CAVA offers Culinary Specialist jobs in their Mediterranean-inspired restaurants. They have locations in many states, providing a fast-paced and energetic dining experience.
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Sodexo
Average Salary: $38,605
Sodexo offers Culinary Specialist jobs in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, and corporate offices. They have locations nationwide, providing diverse culinary experiences.
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FLIK Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $37,818
FLIK Hospitality Group offers Culinary Specialist jobs in their upscale dining establishments. They have locations in several states, providing a sophisticated and elegant dining experience.
 
How to earn more as a Culinary Specialist?
A Culinary Specialist can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. Gaining experience in high-end restaurants or specialized cuisines can lead to higher pay. These environments often require advanced skills and knowledge, which can command a higher salary. Networking with other professionals in the industry can open doors to better job opportunities and higher-paying positions. Attending culinary events and joining professional organizations can help build these connections.
Specializing in a niche area of culinary arts can also boost earnings. For example, a specialist in molecular gastronomy or pastry arts may find more lucrative positions. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest culinary trends can make a Culinary Specialist more valuable. Certifications from recognized culinary institutions can enhance a resume and lead to higher-paying jobs. Finally, taking on leadership roles such as head chef or kitchen manager can significantly increase income.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Culinary Specialist:
- Gain experience in high-end restaurants.
 - Network with other culinary professionals.
 - Specialize in a niche area of culinary arts.
 - Obtain relevant certifications.
 - Take on leadership roles.
 



