Prepare meals in private homes. Includes personal chefs.
SOC: 35-2013.00
Common Job Titles
Certified Personal Chef (CPC)
Personal Chef
Personal Private Chef
Private Chef
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDevelop customized menu plans accommodating dietary restrictions, preferences, and nutritional requirements in private household settings, consulting directly with clients.
Proficient
Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of knife techniques and food preparation methods using professional culinary tools including boning knives, paring knives, and mandolines.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess ingredient quality and freshness when selecting and sourcing materials for meal preparation.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate client preferences with professional culinary standards while establishing and maintaining positive household relationships.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate cooking equipment including convection ovens, food processors, and stand mixers following food safety protocols and maintaining temperature controls.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize meal preparation schedules and ingredient inventory to ensure timely delivery of meals within household routines.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate food safety compliance and storage procedures in private kitchen environments, monitoring temperatures and freshness.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate multitasking of cooking processes and timing to deliver multiple-course meals simultaneously while maintaining quality standards.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply food production knowledge and culinary techniques when preparing diverse cuisines and specialty dishes.
Developing
MindsetRespond to client feedback and evolving dietary needs through active listening and menu adjustments.
Developing
KnowledgeApply financial management principles for food cost control and budgeting when procuring ingredients and managing household culinary expenses.
Developing
KnowledgeModify recipes and cooking methods to accommodate special dietary requirements including allergies, health conditions, and cultural preferences.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Cooks, Private Household (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
900
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $38,240. 25th percentile: U.S. $42,800. 50th percentile: U.S. $44,530. 75th percentile: U.S. $47,150. 90th percentile: U.S. $92,480. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$38,240
10% of workers earn the following or more
$92,480
Workers on average earn
$51,290
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.6/5
Food Production4.1/5
Sales and Marketing3.7/5
Administration and Management3.1/5
Production and Processing3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation