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How much does a Culinary Specialist make?

The average salary for a Culinary Specialist is $38,671 per year in the US.

A Culinary Specialist plays a key role in preparing meals for many people. This job can be found in restaurants, schools, hospitals, and even the military. The average yearly salary for a Culinary Specialist is around $38,671. This means that, on average, someone in this job can expect to earn this amount each year.

The salary for a Culinary Specialist can vary based on experience and location. Those with more experience often earn more. For example, someone with 10 years of experience might earn closer to $58,636 per year. The location also plays a big role. In some cities, the cost of living is higher, so salaries might be higher to match those costs. In other areas, the cost of living is lower, and so are the salaries. It’s important to consider these factors when looking for a job in this field.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Culinary Specialist?

Culinary specialists can find some of the best pay in Riverside, California, where the average salary reaches $66,346. This city offers a vibrant food scene and many opportunities for those skilled in the kitchen. Honolulu, Hawaii, follows closely with an average salary of $54,820, providing a unique blend of culinary traditions and high demand for talented chefs. Other cities like Boston, Washington, D.C., and Seattle also offer competitive salaries for culinary professionals. These locations combine strong culinary traditions with a high demand for skilled chefs, making them attractive for job seekers in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Culinary Specialist jobs, highlighting Riverside, CA with the highest at $66,346 and Columbus, OH with the lowest at $42,223.
  1. Riverside, CA
    Average Salary: $66,346
    In Riverside, culinary professionals enjoy a vibrant food scene with many restaurants and cafes. With companies like McCormick & Schmick's and local eateries, there are plenty of opportunities to showcase culinary skills.
    Find Culinary Specialist jobs in Riverside, CA


  2. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $54,820
    Honolulu offers a unique culinary experience with its blend of local and international flavors. Working in this city means being part of a diverse food culture, with opportunities at places like Duke's Waikiki and local Hawaiian restaurants.
    Find Culinary Specialist jobs in Honolulu, HI


  3. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $53,290
    Boston is a hub for culinary innovation, with a rich food history and a modern twist. Culinary specialists here can find work in renowned establishments like Legal Sea Foods and local bistros, offering a dynamic environment for creativity.
    Find Culinary Specialist jobs in Boston, MA


  4. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $52,026
    In Washington, DC, culinary professionals can enjoy a diverse food scene with many restaurants and catering companies. Working in this city offers the chance to create dishes for a varied clientele, including politicians and tourists.
    Find Culinary Specialist jobs in Washington, DC


  5. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $50,706
    Seattle is known for its fresh seafood and innovative cuisine. Culinary specialists in this city can work in restaurants like Canlis and local food trucks, enjoying a vibrant and creative culinary environment.
    Find Culinary Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $47,532
    Los Angeles offers a diverse and dynamic culinary scene with many opportunities in the entertainment industry. Working in this city means being part of a bustling food culture with many restaurants and food festivals.
    Find Culinary Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  7. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $44,315
    San Diego boasts a vibrant food scene with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Culinary professionals here can find work in restaurants like The Fish Market and local cafes, enjoying a laid-back yet dynamic environment.
    Find Culinary Specialist jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $43,222
    Denver offers a unique culinary experience with a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. Working in this city means being part of a growing food scene, with opportunities at restaurants like The Kitchen and local breweries.
    Find Culinary Specialist jobs in Denver, CO


  9. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $42,893
    Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza and diverse food offerings. Culinary specialists in this city can find work in iconic restaurants like Giordano's and local eateries, enjoying a rich and varied culinary culture.
    Find Culinary Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL


  10. Columbus, OH
    Average Salary: $42,223
    Columbus offers a vibrant food scene with a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. Working in this city means being part of a growing culinary community, with opportunities at restaurants like North 6th and local food festivals.
    Find Culinary Specialist jobs in Columbus, OH

What are the best companies a Culinary Specialist can work for?

Oakmont Senior Living offers the highest average salary for Culinary Specialist jobs at $84,483. Goodwin Recruiting follows closely, with an average salary of $68,273. These top-paying companies provide excellent opportunities for culinary professionals seeking rewarding careers. Tommy Bahama, Monarch Healthcare Management, and CSC Generation also offer competitive salaries, ranging from $44,000 to $41,732. FLIK Hospitality Group and Chick-fil-A Restaurants provide average salaries around $38,000, while SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging, HEB, and Lifespace Communities offer salaries starting at $34,000. These companies present a range of options for culinary specialists looking to advance their careers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Culinary Specialist jobs, highlighting Oakmont Senior Living with the highest at $84,483 and Lifespace Communities with the lowest at $34,095.
  1. Oakmont Senior Living
    Average Salary: $84,483
    Oakmont Senior Living offers rewarding Culinary Specialist jobs. They focus on providing excellent dining experiences for seniors. They operate in various locations across the United States, ensuring a wide range of opportunities for culinary professionals.


  2. Goodwin Recruiting
    Average Salary: $68,273
    Goodwin Recruiting places Culinary Specialists in top-tier restaurants. They help chefs find positions that match their skills and experience. Goodwin Recruiting works with clients nationwide, offering a variety of locations for culinary careers.


  3. Tommy Bahama
    Average Salary: $44,018
    Tommy Bahama provides exciting Culinary Specialist jobs in their restaurants. They focus on creating a fun and vibrant dining atmosphere. Their locations are spread across the United States, offering a chance to work in different environments.


  4. Monarch Healthcare Management
    Average Salary: $44,000
    Monarch Healthcare Management offers Culinary Specialist jobs in their senior living communities. They aim to provide delicious meals to residents. Their facilities are located in several states, giving chefs a chance to work in diverse settings.


  5. CSC Generation
    Average Salary: $41,732
    CSC Generation offers Culinary Specialist jobs in their dining services. They focus on delivering high-quality meals. Their locations are spread across the United States, providing various opportunities for culinary professionals.


  6. FLIK Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $38,375
    FLIK Hospitality Group provides Culinary Specialist jobs in their restaurants. They emphasize creating a welcoming dining experience. Their locations are in multiple states, offering a range of opportunities for chefs.


  7. Chick-fil-A Restaurants
    Average Salary: $37,404
    Chick-fil-A Restaurants offer Culinary Specialist jobs with a focus on quality and service. They operate in many locations across the United States, providing chefs with diverse experiences.


  8. SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging
    Average Salary: $36,000
    SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging provides Culinary Specialist jobs in their senior dining services. They focus on providing nutritious meals. Their locations are in various states, offering a chance to work in different environments.


  9. HEB
    Average Salary: $34,475
    HEB offers Culinary Specialist jobs in their restaurants and cafes. They focus on delivering delicious meals to customers. Their locations are spread across Texas, providing chefs with a variety of dining experiences.


  10. Lifespace Communities
    Average Salary: $34,095
    Lifespace Communities provides Culinary Specialist jobs in their senior living communities. They aim to offer tasty and nutritious meals. Their facilities are located in several states, giving chefs a chance to work in different settings.

How to earn more as a Culinary Specialist?

A Culinary Specialist can increase their earnings 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 premium. Networking with other chefs and industry professionals can also open doors to better-paying positions. Attending culinary events and joining professional organizations can enhance these connections.

Specializing in a niche area, such as molecular gastronomy or vegan cuisine, can also boost earnings. These specialized skills can make a Culinary Specialist more valuable to employers. Certifications from recognized culinary institutions add credibility and can lead to higher-paying jobs. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest culinary trends ensure a Culinary Specialist remains competitive in the job market. Investing in personal branding and marketing can also attract higher-paying opportunities.

Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Culinary Specialist:

  1. Gain experience in high-end restaurants.
  2. Network with other chefs and industry professionals.
  3. Specialize in a niche area of cuisine.
  4. Obtain certifications from recognized culinary institutions.
  5. Invest in personal branding and marketing.

Currently 466 Culinary Specialist job openings, nationwide.

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

Learn what a Culinary Specialist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Culinary Specialist today.
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Culinary Specialist
466 Job Openings