⭐ Bright Outlook

Chefs and Head Cooks

O*NET 35-1011.00 · SOC 35-1011

Projected Growth
+9%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$62k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
20k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

Education & How to Get In

📋
Job Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

Most Chefs and Head Cooks positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Chefs and Head Cooks? These platforms offer courses you can start today — many with free trials or financial aid.

Coursera
University-backed courses and certificates
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Udemy
Affordable self-paced courses from $12.99
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Skillshare
Creative and professional skill classes
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LinkedIn Learning
Professional development with certificates
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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Leadership — offices, client meetings, or hybrid

Work Style

Collaborative — frequent interaction with teams, clients, or patients

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Enterprising (Persuaders)5.1
Realistic (Doers)4.8
Conventional (Organizers)4.3
Social (Helpers)3.0
Artistic (Creators)2.7
Investigative (Thinkers)1.7

Who Thrives as Chef?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ESTJThe ExecutiveESTPThe DynamoESFJThe ProviderENTJThe Commander

Not sure which you are? Take the free 5-minute quiz →

See Open Chefs and Head Cooks Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

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Is Chefs and Head Cooks right for you?

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