Weekday Chef information
See Chicago, IL salary details
$10.40 - $13.64
4% of jobs
$13.64 - $16.88
18% of jobs
$17.29 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.88 - $20.13
23% of jobs
The median wage is $21.45 / hr.
$20.13 - $23.37
12% of jobs
$23.37 - $26.61
11% of jobs
$29.55 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$26.61 - $29.85
8% of jobs
$29.85 - $33.09
7% of jobs
$33.09 - $36.33
5% of jobs
$36.33 - $39.58
4% of jobs
$39.58 - $42.82
5% of jobs
$42.82 - $46.06
2% of jobs
How much do weekday chef jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for weekday chef in Chicago, IL is $25.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $31.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Weekday Chefs are culinary professionals who primarily work during the weekdays, often preparing meals for families, individuals, or organizations. Their duties can include meal planning, grocery shopping, cooking, and sometimes cleaning up afterward. Weekday Chefs may work in private homes, corporate settings, or catering companies, and are typically hired to provide convenient, healthy, and delicious meals to suit their clients' schedules and preferences. This role is ideal for those looking for a regular workweek and work-life balance compared to traditional restaurant hours.
To thrive as a Weekday Chef, you need strong culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and experience in menu planning, often supported by a culinary degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Excellent time management, adaptability, and clear communication help chefs manage high-volume meal prep and coordinate with kitchen staff. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, consistent meal quality, and compliance with health regulations during busy weekday service.
Weekday Chefs often face the challenge of preparing high-quality meals within tight timeframes due to the busy nature of weekday service. Additionally, menu planning must cater to regular clientele who may expect variety and healthy options. Effective time management, strong organizational skills, and open communication with kitchen staff are key to overcoming these challenges. Chefs can also streamline operations by prepping ingredients in advance and regularly collaborating with suppliers to ensure fresh, timely deliveries.
Weekday chefs typically work five days a week, Monday through Friday, with shifts varying depending on the establishment. Some may work early mornings, evenings, or split shifts, but the standard schedule usually involves five workdays. Overtime or weekend work may be required in busy periods or for special events.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Chicago, IL?
The most popular types of Chef jobs in Chicago, IL are:
