How to Become a Private Chef

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Private Chef

What does a Private Chef do?

A Private Chef directs and oversees kitchen operations, including menu development, purchasing, inventory, cost control and sanitation. Creates and updates menus that will appeal to customers, utilize seasonal ingredients, and maximize profits. Being an Private Chef develops and tests new recipes. Solicits and studies customer feedback to maintain high standards of quality and satisfaction. Additionally, Private Chef troubleshoots and resolves operational issues. Complies with all safety and food sanitation laws and regulations. Supervises, trains, and mentors staff. Typically requires a bachelor's degree in culinary arts or equivalent. Typically reports to top management. The Private Chef typically manages through subordinate managers and professionals in larger groups of moderate complexity. Provides input to strategic decisions that affect the functional area of responsibility. May give input into developing the budget. To be an Private Chef typically requires 3+ years of managerial experience. Capable of resolving escalated issues arising from operations and requiring coordination with other departments.

People's Opinions on Private Chef responsibilities

Often, a person working as this type of chef has obtained scholastic training.

10/13/2019: Saginaw, MI

Many chefs attend a cooking academy or culinary institute to learn the fine art of cooking.

10/13/2019: Baltimore, MD

Most people hire private chefs to have freshly cooked meals with fresh ingredients when they are unable to do so.

11/23/2019: Boca Raton, FL

Under these circumstances, a chef will usually need to be knowledgeable about nutrition and making healthy food choices.

12/03/2019: Parkersburg, WV

Before the food can be cooked, a private chef will need to prepare the food and make it ready for cooking.

10/06/2019: Syracuse, NY
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Private Chef

Best tips for those who want to become a Private Chef

Here are some tips to become a Private Chef.

People's Opinions on best tips

Don’t wait to the last minute to confirm a chef Once you have received 3-4 proposals from chefs, and worked out the chef you want.

10/06/2019: Cedar Falls, IA

Give chefs creative freedom on the menu Chefs are creatives at heart.

10/15/2019: Chicago, IL

Look at other customers reviews when choosing your chef Who better to tell you what a chef is really like than a fellow customer.

01/03/2020: Portsmouth, NH

Master a variety of cooking skills and styles.

11/14/2019: Shreveport, LA
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Private Chef

Best colleges and universities for Private Chef

  • Calvin University
  • Colby-Sawyer College
  • Augustana University
  • University of South Carolina--Upstate
  • New York University
  • CUNY--Queens College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Private Chef

Is being a Private Chef Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

In this episode of Neill Anthony Private Chef, Gregory Ware and his family fly to Cape Town from USA for the perfect holiday, complimented by the perfect dinner party.

10/29/2019: Temple, TX

Unlike the restaurant world, Sysco deliveries don’t show up at the back door of private residences.

10/11/2019: Sacramento, CA

Working right in the middle of a private family — any family — can be uncomfortable at times.

10/29/2019: Scranton, PA

Remember you are in someone’s private home first, but in a strange way, you are treating them like a guest.

12/31/2019: Fort Wayne, IN

Hiring a personal chef provides meal planning for people who have busy lives, but still want nutritious, delicious, variety in their everyday meals.

12/28/2019: Chico, CA
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Private Chef

What skills do you need to be a Private Chef?

Management is no easy task, and as such, the skill requirements for these types of roles vary greatly.  Chief skills for this role are: Food Inventory Maintenance, Food Inventory Recordkeeping, Food Prep Tools and Equipment, Food Preparation, Food Quality Inspection, Food Safety Procedures, Operations Management, Kitchen Operations, Menu Development.  Expertise in these areas will help you land this, or a similar role.

People's Opinions on Private Chef skills

Then, “send your resume to private chef agencies or consultants to get their feedback on your experience and see if you’re ready to interview with their clients,” Einav recommends.

11/19/2019: Altus, OK

Experienced and talented private chef skilled at preparing professional meals for a variety of tastes.

10/04/2019: Duluth, MN

Ready to use vast knowledge of providing exemplary customer service for a range of occasions including corporate events and private parties.

11/15/2019: Fort Myers, FL

The resume of a Private Chef should reflect at least a high school diploma or its equivalent, as well as any previous experience of formal training.

10/06/2019: El Paso, TX

Chef SousChef SousPlantation Golf & Country ClubGainesville, FL, USTwo years experience in supervisory position required.

11/04/2019: Charleston, WV
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Step 6: View average salary for Private Chef

How much does a Private Chef make?

The average salary range for a Private Chef is from $76,125 to $102,128. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Private Chef
$76,125 to $102,128

Step 7: Find relevant Private Chef jobs, and apply.

Looking for Private Chef jobs?

Here are some Private Chef jobs in the United States.

Search Private Chef Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Private Chef