Culinary refers to the kitchen or cookery, and chefs are culinary professionals who create meals, pastries and desserts in all types of eateries and dining establishments, as well as some private households. While some chefs specialize in a specific type of cuisine or cooking, others prepare a wide variety of tasty meals and treats.

Qualifications

There are no specific qualifications to become a culinary chef. Many of these professionals gain experience over time and are promoted into this role. Some chefs attend culinary school and obtain an associate's or bachelor's degree in culinary arts, which can increase employment opportunities. Personal qualities also make chefs successful. They must be imaginative to create dishes that make them stand out and become their signature. An excellent palette and good sense of smell is also critical for this role, because chefs must be able to taste and smell all types of cuisine for a wide range of customers with different preferences.

Responsibilities

Culinary chefs run a kitchen in a restaurant or other eating establishment. They select ingredients and develop recipes for the menu. They order kitchen supplies and food, maintain inventory and check food and other ingredients for freshness and taste. Culinary chefs hire, train and oversee the kitchen staff to ensure food is prepared properly. They also ensure the kitchen is sanitized and the staff follows safety and sanitary procedures that are compliant with local, state and federal regulations established for food preparation and cleanliness in commercial kitchens.

Work Environment

Chefs use sharp utensils, work close to heating elements and may have to work on slippery surfaces. Most kitchens are tight-knit quarters, so the staff must be able to function as a cohesive group. They often spend their time on their feet and work irregular hours, such as early mornings or late evenings to accommodate customers and food vendors. They also might have to work holidays. Running a kitchen often requires working long shifts to keep it running smoothly and safely.

Careers and Salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a fast increase -- 25 percent -- for chefs between 2020 and 2030. Although a growing population in the U.S. will spur the demand for restaurants and eateries, an attempt to lower costs will result in many restaurants using general cooks to perform the tasks of chefs. The majority of job opportunities will be a result of many chefs leaving the profession because of the long hours and highly intense work environment. In 2020, chefs made a mean annual wage of $53,380 per year.

Chefs and Head Cooks salary

• Top 10% Annual Salary: More than $90,790 ($43.65/hour)
• Median Annual Salary: $53,380 ($25.66/hour)
• Bottom 10% Annual Salary: Less than $30,300 ($14.57/hour)