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Alabama Department of Labor

Labor Market Information Division
SOC: 35-1011 Chefs and Head Cooks
Direct the preparation, seasoning, and cooking of salads, soups, fish, meats, vegetables, desserts, or other foods. May plan and price menu items, order supplies, and keep records and accounts. May participate in cooking.
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Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
OJT: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Tasks: Monitor sanitation practices to ensure that employees follow standards and regulations. Check the quality of raw or cooked food products to ensure that standards are met. Estimate amounts and costs of required supplies, such as food and ingredients. Instruct cooks or other workers in the preparation, cooking, garnishing, or presentation of food. Supervise or coordinate activities of cooks or workers engaged in food preparation. Inspect supplies, equipment, or work areas to ensure conformance to established standards. Order or requisition food or other supplies needed to ensure efficient operation. Determine production schedules and staff requirements necessary to ensure timely delivery of services. Check the quantity and quality of received products. Determine how food should be presented and create decorative food displays. Plan, direct, or supervise the food preparation or cooking activities of multiple kitchens or restaurants in an establishment such as a restaurant chain, hospital, or hotel. Coordinate planning, budgeting, or purchasing for all the food operations within establishments such as clubs, hotels, or restaurant chains. Analyze recipes to assign prices to menu items, based on food, labor, and overhead costs. Prepare and cook foods of all types, either on a regular basis or for special guests or functions. Meet with sales representatives to negotiate prices or order supplies. Recruit and hire staff, such as cooks and other kitchen workers. Collaborate with other personnel to plan and develop recipes or menus, taking into account such factors as seasonal availability of ingredients or the likely number of customers.
License: License not required.
Outlook: Satisfactory
Alabama Employment Outlook
Alabama Wage Data
Hourly Wage   Annual Wage
Entry $16.28   Entry $33,858.00
Mean $25.09   Mean $52,191.00
Experience $29.49 Experience $61,362.00

The data is based on the May 2017 Occupation Employment Survey employment and wage estimate file. The wages have been aged using the most current ECI factors reflecting wages as of June 2018.

Alabama Projections
Estimated Employment 2016Projected Employment 2026Annual Average OpeningsAnnual Growth Rate
630700901.05
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Occupational Videos
35-1011.00 Chefs and Head Cooks