Are You the Next Julia Child?

By Francine L. Huff
Learning & Life Columnist
October 23, 2007

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Some people just have a knack for cooking up tasty food and arranging it to look oh-so appetizing. If you feel like giving Emeril a run for his money, perhaps you're ready for a career in cooking and catering.

Career Paths for Cooks & Chefs

There is no shortage of cooking and catering jobs in the U.S., and the employment outlook is expected to stay strong. Jobs available in this field range from entry-level cook in the fast-food industry to executive chef at a five-star restaurant. For those who want a bit more control over their days (and nights), catering continues to be a lucrative field. The pay varies based upon the region and type of establishment, but according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median hourly earnings of chefs and head cooks in 2004 were $14.75.

Culinary School Counts

While you don't need a degree to get started in an entry-level cooking and catering job, attending culinary school can help you hone your skills and land a higher-paying job. Most chefs tend to be more highly trained than cooks. Culinary arts schools also offer courses in hospitality and restaurant management. If you plan to run your own catering business, you may also want to take event planning or business courses, such as accounting.

Working Conditions

Depending upon where you're employed, expect to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and/or holidays in this field. Cooking and catering jobs also will require you to be on your feet most of the time, as well as work in hot kitchens. If you work for a small restaurant you could be the only chef. However, larger restaurants, catering halls, and food services often having a whole staff of people that specialize in different areas.

Don't like the restaurant scene? Cooking and catering jobs are expanding beyond their traditional boundaries. Demand is growing for personal chefs and meal delivery services. Also, many grocery stores are hiring chefs to prepare food and teach cooking classes. With more people looking for the convenience of prepared foods these days, there is a variety of opportunities for people with culinary skills.

Source

Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Chefs, Cooks and Food Preparation Workers"

About the Author
Francine L. Huff is a freelance journalist and the author of The 25-Day Financial Makeover: A Practical Guide for Women. She has appeared on a variety of TV and radio shows.

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