Head Chef salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Head Chef in South Africa is approximately 131,755 ZAR (6,571 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Head Chef do?

A head chef is a culinary professional who holds a leadership position in a kitchen. They are responsible for overseeing all aspects of food preparation, menu planning, and kitchen operations. Their main role is to ensure that the food served is of high quality, visually appealing, and meets the standards set by the establishment. The head chef manages a team of cooks, assigns tasks, and ensures that all food is prepared and presented in a timely manner. They are also responsible for maintaining inventory, ordering supplies, and managing the kitchen budget. Additionally, head chefs may be involved in creating new recipes, developing menus, and training staff members. This occupation requires excellent culinary skills, creativity, attention to detail, strong leadership abilities, and the ability to work well under pressure.

Skills: Head chef, Culinary professional, Kitchen management, Menu planning, Leadership skills, Food preparation
Job industry: Hospitality

How much does Head Chef make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Head Chef a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Head Chef is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Head Chef?

High salary for Head Chef would be somewhere between 144,931 ZAR and 191,045 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Head Chef in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 131,755 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 10,980 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 2,534 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 63 ZAR per hour
By working as Head Chef a person can save up to 276 USD per month or 3,317 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Head Chef

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

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