Summer Chef Jobs: Worthwhile for High School Students?

I'm really into cooking and considering working as a chef over the summer. Has anyone else done this? What should I expect in terms of hours and pay? Is it a good gig compared to other summer jobs?

There are definitely numerous benefits to pursuing a summer job as a chef, especially if you're passionate about cooking.

Firstly, summer chef jobs can provide you with hands-on experience in a professional kitchen, which is fantastic if you're considering a culinary career down the line. Gain practical skills such as food preparation, cooking techniques, kitchen etiquette, food safety, and time management. Not to mention, you'll also be exposed to the hustle and bustle of a real kitchen, which can be an eye-opening and enriching experience.

As for hours, they can vary depending on the establishment but kitchens are often operationally intensive. You might be asked to work early mornings or late evenings, weekends, and on holidays. In some locations, you might expect to work up to 12 hours a day. Remember that this also could be physically demanding work, with lots of standing, lifting, and fast-paced activity.

When it comes to pay, this can also fluctuate based on the eatery and location. Often, entry-level kitchen roles like line cook or prep cook are hourly and you can expect somewhere in the range of minimum wage to a little over, depending on where you live. However, some upscale restaurants or resorts may offer a higher pay range for their summer kitchen staff. You might want to research your local job market or ask in your interviews to get a better sense.

Compared to other summer jobs, working in a kitchen can be more intense. However, it provides a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience in a field you're curious about. If this is your passion, you might find it more engaging and rewarding than other common summer jobs like retail or lifeguarding.

Ensure you value the experience and skills you'd gain from the job, not just the paycheck. Being a summer chef can provide valuable insights into the food and hospitality industry, build a strong work ethic, and foster skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Not to mention, it's an excellent way to validate if a culinary career is right for you.

Good luck!