Top 11 Catering Chef Certifications

Certifications are important for a catering chef in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and proficiency that employers look for when hiring. Certifications also show potential employers that a chef has the necessary skills to handle the responsibilities associated with catering, such as menu planning, food preparation, sanitation, and safety. Having certifications can also help chefs stand out from other applicants by showcasing their commitment to excellence in the culinary field. Furthermore, certifications can open up more opportunities for employment and career advancement in the catering industry.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Catering Chefs and explains how they can help to advance a catering chef's career.

What are Catering Chef Certifications?

Catering Chef Certification is a credential offered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF) that recognizes professional chefs who have the skills and knowledge to manage all aspects of catering operations. This certification demonstrates a chef’s proficiency in planning, preparing, and executing large-scale foodservice events. It also provides assurance to potential clients that they are hiring a knowledgeable and experienced caterer.

The certification requires chefs to pass an exam on topics such as menu planning, nutrition, sanitation, and financial management. The exam also covers topics related to event planning such as table settings, decorating themes, and staff management. Passing the exam gives chefs the confidence and credibility required to compete in the catering industry.

In addition to passing the exam, certified chefs must adhere to ACF’s code of ethics and maintain their certification through continuing education credits every two years. This ensures that certified chefs stay up-to-date with current trends in the industry and remain knowledgeable about food safety regulations.

Catering Chef Certification can help chefs stand out from their competition by demonstrating their expertise and commitment to quality service. Having this credential will make it easier for chefs to secure contracts with large organizations or venues for catering events, as well as build trust with potential clients who are looking for experienced professionals. Furthermore, having this certification can help chefs advance their careers by opening up new opportunities in the catering industry or even teaching positions at culinary schools.

Pro Tip: When considering a catering chef certification, make sure to research the program thoroughly and read reviews from other students. Make sure it is accredited and will provide you with the necessary skills to succeed in the field. Additionally, look into any continuing education opportunities offered by the program so that you can stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technology in the industry.

Related: What does a Catering Chef do?

Top 11 Catering Chef Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Catering Chefs today.

1. Certified Executive Chef (CEC)

Certified Executive Chef (CEC) is a professional certification awarded by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). It is the highest level of certification available for chefs in the United States, and is designed to recognize the culinary skills and knowledge of experienced chefs. To be eligible for this certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience as an executive chef or related position.

The CEC certification process involves passing a series of exams that test culinary knowledge and skills. The first exam covers topics such as kitchen safety, nutrition, food production, and sanitation. The second exam focuses on menu planning, cost control, purchasing and storage, and personnel management.

It typically takes about six months to complete the entire CEC certification process. During this time, applicants must complete coursework in addition to studying for the exams. Applicants must also obtain letters of recommendation from two ACF-certified chefs in order to be approved for the program.

The cost of obtaining the CEC certification varies depending on the individual's situation; however, it typically costs approximately $1,000-$2,000 in total fees including application fees and exam fees.

2. Certified Culinary Administrator (CCA)

Certified Culinary Administrator (CCA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). It is designed to recognize culinary professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in foodservice management. The CCA certification is achieved through a combination of education, experience, and testing.

To become certified as a CCA, individuals must meet the following requirements:

- Be an ACF member in good standing for at least one year

- Have a minimum of five years of full-time work experience in foodservice management

- Have completed an approved ACF educational course or program

- Pass the CCA Certification Exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The exam covers topics such as food safety and sanitation, nutrition, menu planning and design, purchasing and inventory control, financial management, human resource management, marketing and public relations. The exam can be taken online or at an ACF approved testing center.

It typically takes between six months to one year to become certified as a CCA depending on individual experience and preparation for the exam.

The cost of becoming certified as a CCA varies depending on whether you are an ACF member or not. For ACF members, the cost is $295 for non-members it is $395. This fee includes the application fee, test registration fee, study guide materials and certificate upon successful completion of the exam.

3. Certified Sous Chef (CSC)

Certified Sous Chef (CSC) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of a sous chef. A sous chef is a culinary professional who works under the executive chef in a restaurant or other food service establishment. The CSC credential is awarded by the American Culinary Federation (ACF), an organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the culinary profession.

The CSC certification requires applicants to have at least two years of work experience as a sous chef, as well as successfully complete an ACF-approved exam. The exam covers topics such as kitchen management, nutrition, sanitation, food safety, and more. Additionally, applicants must have current CPR/AED certification and complete an ACF-approved continuing education course within three years of application.

It typically takes about four weeks to receive your CSC certification once you have completed all requirements. However, it can take longer depending on how quickly you submit your application materials and how quickly they are processed by the ACF.

The cost for the CSC certification varies depending on whether you are an ACF member or not. For non-members, it costs $400 for the exam fee plus any additional fees associated with CPR/AED certification and continuing education courses. For members, it costs $350 for the exam fee plus any additional fees associated with CPR/AED certification and continuing education courses.

4. Certified Master Chef (CMC)

A Certified Master Chef (CMC) is the highest level of professional culinary certification. It is a prestigious honor that recognizes an individual's mastery of all aspects of the culinary arts and sciences. The certification process is rigorous and requires years of experience in the kitchen, as well as passing a series of examinations.

The CMC program is administered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). To become certified, an individual must have at least 10 years of professional cooking experience and hold a Certified Executive Chef or Certified Culinary Educator credential from ACF. In addition, they must complete a comprehensive application process which includes submitting letters of recommendation, written essays, and detailed work histories.

Once accepted into the program, applicants must attend a week-long seminar hosted by ACF to learn about the principles and techniques used in advanced cooking. After completing this seminar, they must pass three exams: one on food preparation, one on nutrition and food science, and one on management skills.

The entire CMC certification process can take up to two years to complete. The cost for the program varies depending on where you live but typically ranges from $2,000-$3,000 USD for tuition plus additional fees for materials such as books and testing fees.

5. Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM)

Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM) is a certification program offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and competency in food safety and sanitation. The CPFM certification is valid for five years and must be renewed to maintain its validity.

To become a Certified Professional Food Manager, you must complete a training program that meets the requirements of the NRAEF’s ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification Program. This program consists of an eight-hour course and an exam that covers topics such as food safety regulations, personal hygiene, cleaning and sanitizing procedures, temperature control, pest control, safe food handling practices, and more. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, you will receive your CPFM certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Professional Food Manager varies depending on where you take the course. Generally speaking, it can range from $100-$200 for the course materials and exam fee.

In most states, it is required by law that all restaurants have at least one Certified Professional Food Manager on staff at all times. Having this certification demonstrates your commitment to providing safe food to your customers and can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the foodservice industry.

6. Certified Kitchen Manager (CKM)

Certified Kitchen Manager (CKM) is a professional certification program designed to provide kitchen managers with the knowledge and skills they need to successfully manage a foodservice operation. The CKM program is offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

The CKM program consists of three courses: Introduction to Foodservice Management, Food Safety and Sanitation, and Human Resources Management. Each course takes approximately 10 hours to complete. Upon completion of all three courses, participants must pass an exam in order to earn their CKM certification.

To get certified, individuals must register for the program through the NRAEF website. The cost for the program is $395 USD. Once registered, individuals can access the online courses and take them at their own pace. After completing all three courses and passing the exam, individuals will receive their CKM certification from the NRAEF.

7. American Culinary Federation Certification Program (ACF)

The American Culinary Federation Certification Program (ACF) is a program designed to recognize and promote the professional development of chefs in the United States. The program offers a variety of certifications that demonstrate knowledge, experience, and expertise in the culinary field.

The certification process typically takes between 6-12 months depending on the level of certification being sought. To get certified, an individual must meet certain requirements such as completing a minimum number of hours in the kitchen, having a certain amount of experience working in food service, and passing an exam.

To get started with ACF certification, individuals must first join the organization by paying an annual membership fee. This fee varies depending on the type of membership selected. After joining, individuals can then apply for one or more levels of certification based on their qualifications and experience.

The cost for each level of certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought. For example, Certified Culinarian (CC) costs $165 while Certified Executive Chef (CEC) costs $395. Additional fees may also be required for exams or other materials needed to complete the process.

8. National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Certification Program (NRAEF)

The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) Certification Program is a comprehensive and rigorous training program designed to equip foodservice professionals with the knowledge and skills to become successful leaders in the industry. The certification program consists of three levels: Certified Foodservice Professional (CFP), Certified Foodservice Executive (CFE), and Certified Master Foodservice Executive (CMFE).

The CFP certification is designed for entry-level foodservice professionals who are looking to gain a better understanding of the foodservice industry. This certification takes approximately six months to complete, depending on how quickly you can complete the online coursework. To get certified, you must successfully complete all required coursework, pass an exam, and pay a fee of $125.

The CFE certification is designed for mid-level foodservice professionals who want to advance their career in the industry. This certification requires two years of experience in the field and takes approximately one year to complete. To get certified, you must successfully complete all required coursework, pass an exam, and pay a fee of $250.

The CMFE certification is designed for senior-level foodservice professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in the industry. This certification requires five years of experience in the field and takes approximately two years to complete. To get certified, you must successfully complete all required coursework, pass an exam, and pay a fee of $450.

Overall, the NRAEF Certification Program provides valuable education that helps individuals enhance their professional development within the foodservice industry. With this certification under your belt, you will be able to demonstrate your knowledge and skillset as a leader in this field.

9. ServSafe Food Handler Certification

ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a program developed by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) to help food handlers learn how to safely handle and prepare food. The certification provides an overview of basic food safety principles, including proper hygiene, preventing cross-contamination, and proper storage and preparation of foods. It also covers topics such as allergies, temperature control, and pest control.

The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is available online or in a classroom setting. Online courses typically take about two hours to complete and cost around $15. Classroom courses are typically four hours long and cost around $30. Upon successful completion of the course, participants receive a certificate valid for three years that can be used to demonstrate their knowledge of food safety practices.

To get the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, individuals must register for either an online or classroom course through the NRAEF website. Once registered, they will have access to all course materials needed to complete the certification. After completing the course requirements, participants must pass a final exam with at least 70% accuracy in order to receive their certification.

10. SafeStaff Food Handler Certification

SafeStaff Food Handler Certification is a program offered by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. It is designed to provide food handlers with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely handle, prepare, and serve food in accordance with state regulations. The certification is valid for three years from the date of completion.

To obtain SafeStaff Food Handler Certification, individuals must complete an online training course or attend a face-to-face class. The online course takes approximately 2 hours to complete and costs $20. The face-to-face class takes about 4 hours to complete and costs $30. Upon successful completion of either option, participants will receive a certificate verifying their completion of the program.

11. HACCP Food Safety Management System Certification

HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) Food Safety Management System Certification is a certification program developed by the International HACCP Alliance. It is designed to help food establishments identify, evaluate, and control food safety hazards. The certification program requires that all food establishments have a written HACCP plan in place that meets the requirements of the International HACCP Alliance.

The process of getting certified typically takes around six months to one year. To become certified, an establishment must first complete a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Plan Development course. This course provides training on how to develop and implement a HACCP plan for their establishment. After completing the course, the establishment must submit their HACCP plan to the International HACCP Alliance for review and approval. Once approved, they will receive their certificate of completion from the International HACCP Alliance.

The cost of getting certified depends on several factors such as size of business, number of employees, type of food products produced, and other services required for certification. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000-$10,000 USD depending on these factors.

Do You Really Need a Catering Chef Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your goals. If you plan to work in a professional catering business, then it is likely that you will need a catering chef certificate. A catering chef certificate can provide evidence of your knowledge and skills related to food preparation, presentation, and service for large events. It can also demonstrate that you have the necessary experience and qualifications required to provide quality catering services.

On the other hand, if your goal is simply to cook for family and friends at home or host small gatherings, then a catering chef certificate may not be necessary. However, if you are serious about providing quality food at these events, then taking courses related to food safety, menu planning and presentation could help give your guests an enjoyable experience. Additionally, having some level of certification may make it easier for you to find employment as a caterer in the future if that is something that interests you.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a catering chef certificate depends on your specific goals and intentions when it comes to cooking for large groups of people. Taking time to research what kind of certification might be beneficial for the type of cooking you want to do can help ensure that you are well-prepared for any culinary endeavor.

Related: Catering Chef Resume Examples

FAQs About Catering Chef Certifications

1. What is a Catering Chef Certification?

Answer: A Catering Chef Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates the knowledge and skills of experienced catering chefs. It provides recognition for those who have demonstrated their expertise in food preparation, presentation, customer service, and catering management.

2. How do I become a Certified Catering Chef?

Answer: To become a Certified Catering Chef, you must complete an accredited training program and pass an examination to demonstrate your culinary knowledge and skills.

3. What are the benefits of being a Certified Catering Chef?

Answer: Benefits of becoming a Certified Catering Chef include increased job opportunities, higher wages, improved customer satisfaction, and increased credibility with customers.

4. What types of courses will I take as part of the certification program?

Answer: Courses taken as part of the certification program may include food safety, menu planning, kitchen operations, nutrition fundamentals, customer service principles, event planning and execution, and other related topics.

5. How long does it take to complete the certification program?

Answer: The length of time required to complete the certification program varies depending on individual learning styles; however most programs can be completed within 6 months or less.