Chef Careers: Challenges and Rewards

By Austin Brentley

If you have ever considered a career as a chef, be prepared for a bumpy, but potentially fruitful journey. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS,) chef jobs will be plentiful through 2016--but you may find it relatively difficult to climb up the ranks. Many of the top chef jobs are fiercely competitive given how lucrative and rewarding this career can be.

Don't get discouraged, but make sure you understand the situation before pursuing a career as a chef. With a little planning, you might be surprised at how far you can go.

Chef Careers Have Many Paths

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also points out that there is no single path to a career as a chef. Some start their training in relatively informal settings; others start their careers by earning a bachelor's degree in the culinary arts. And still others go to two- or four-year cooking schools in order to hone their skills. The good news is that you have a range of options from which to choose. The bad news is that so does everyone else.

Finding a Better Chef Job

As a general rule, education is an asset. If you go to school for two or four years, you can amass an impressive portfolio, numerous skills, and a great deal of insight. More important, you can develop contacts with alumni, classmates, and others players in the restaurant business. Believe it or not, networking is almost as important as your recipes. If you are serious about pursuing a career as a chef, it makes sense to arm yourself with every advantage you can.

Chef Careers: Find your Focus

If you really want to make inroads in the industry, you might specialize in novelties such as vegan desserts or Afghani appetizers. It doesn't really matter what you focus on just as long as you develop your own style. By bringing a unique skill or talent to the kitchen you're more likely to land the chef job you really want.

About the Author
A freelance writer and researcher, Austin Brentley currently lives and works in Bangkok, Thailand. His previous experience includes working for a lobbying firm in his native Washington, DC, teaching English in Japan, and working for various record and television studios in New York.