Graduating from culinary school will not guarantee you a job as a sous chef in the hottest restaurant in town. Instead, consider how apprenticeships can help you break into the restaurant jobs of your dreams without spending thousands of dollars.

What Are Restaurant Jobs Apprenticeships?

An apprenticeship will train you to work in the culinary field if you’re willing to roll up your sleeves and put in the work. Many people will go to get their associate’s culinary degree to build a foundation, but will skip further education in favor for hands-on training.

What Do You Learn At Apprenticeships?

“Apprentices at the American Club start at the bottom, doing things such as chopping,” says chef and head butcher Valeria Benner, “but at the same time, they get an opportunity to work with the guests or work at carving stations and get a feeling for all aspects of the front of the house and back of the house.”

How Do Restaurant Apprenticeships Work?

Apprenticeships may last from 1-3 years and often lead to restaurant jobs. You can find apprenticeship restaurant jobs for pizza bakers, bartenders, pastry chefs, catering companies and more. Some apprenticeships do not pay at all, while others (like the state-certified programs) will pay 55 percent of what a typical worker would make, with raises every 6 months.

Where Can You Find Apprentice Restaurant Jobs?

·         The American Culinary Foundation offers 2-3 years of training under qualified chefs.

·         State-certified apprenticeships only require a high school diploma and will pay a salary.

The Bottom Line:

If you are serious about restaurant jobs, then you will need to get a degree and take an apprenticeship program as well.