Tips on How to Become an Executive Chef

An executive chef fulfills the same roles as a head chef, except that they tend to work more in hotels and larger establishments. Their responsibilities are to not only cook food but also plan menus, estimate food costs, and supervise other members of staff.

Training

Becoming an executive chef requires a lot of hands-on training and at least three years of work experience. Most executive chefs start off as an assistant chef or even a prep/line cook.

Certification

ServSafe

An executive chef almost always has some sort of ServSafe certificate. In-class training is available depending on which city you live in. You can search under the “Class Locator” field to see if there is a program close to you. If not, there is online training available at www.servsafe.com, which costs $125 and can be completed in less than 90 days. There is also an online exam which can take 60-90 minutes to complete, and costs $36.

Diplomas

A diploma takes one to two years to complete, and is a great way for future chefs to receive proper hands-on training by experienced professionals. Diplomas in the culinary field are available in culinary schools and chef colleges as well as some trade/technical schools, community colleges, and universities.

Degrees

You do not need a degree to become an executive chef, however, an associate’s or bachelor’s degree can guarantee immediate employment through externships. If you don’t want to spend the money on a four-year bachelor’s degree program, an associate’s degree is generally cheaper and could take one to two years to complete. Both types of degrees are available in various culinary schools, as well as colleges and universities.

Jobs

As an executive chef you could work for any of the following:

• Hotels
• Cruise Ships
• Catering companies
• Resorts
• Convention Centers
• Spas
• Hospitals
• Corporate Kitchen
• Even the White House!

Salaries

Executive chefs can make an average $40,000, and up to $70,000 if they have over 20 years of experience.