FAQ
Chef FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a chef.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a chef: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about chefs
Do chefs need culinary school?
No. Many chefs learn on the job, though culinary school can speed things up.
How long does it take to become a chef?
Usually several years of kitchen experience.
What’s the difference between a chef and a cook?
Chefs plan menus and lead kitchens; cooks prepare food on stations.
How much does a chef make?
The median annual wage for chefs was $62,470 ($30.03 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $37,900 and the highest 10% earned more than $98,560.
How long does it take to become a chef?
Most people need about 2–5 years of kitchen experience of training. Many chefs learn on the job over years; others attend culinary school or complete apprenticeships. Food protection manager certification, such as ServSafe Manager, is commonly required.
Do you need a degree to be a chef?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
Is chef a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +6.6% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 25,200 openings each year. Upsides include creative work with food; a common challenge is that long hours, nights and weekends.
What skills does a chef need?
Key technical skills include cooking techniques, menu planning, food cost control, and kitchen management. Employers also value leadership, creativity, and composure under pressure.
What certifications are available for chefs?
Common credentials include ServSafe Food Protection Manager, ACF Certified Sous Chef or Executive Chef, Culinary school diploma or degree, and Allergen awareness training. Many states and cities require at least one certified food protection manager on staff, and health departments inspect kitchens regularly.
Still deciding?
Try the Chef fit quiz, compare with Line Cook, or explore Chef training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 35-1011 (Chefs and head cooks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Chefs and head cooks (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.