Top 11 Head Cook Certifications

Certifications are important for a head cook in the job market because they demonstrate the cook’s knowledge and skills. They are proof that the cook has received formal training and can execute tasks effectively. Certifications also show employers that the cook is committed to their profession, has a solid understanding of food safety standards, and is up-to-date with industry trends. In addition, certifications provide evidence that the head cook is capable of creating quality dishes that meet customer expectations and industry standards. Furthermore, certifications demonstrate to potential employers that the head cook is dedicated to their craft and willing to go the extra mile to ensure success.

This article reviews the top certifications for Head Cooks and explains how they can help to advance a head cook's career.

What are Head Cook Certifications?

Head cook certification is a professional designation that recognizes chefs who have reached a certain level of expertise in their field. This certification is issued by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). To qualify for head cook certification, an individual must have at least two years of experience as a cook and must pass an examination administered by the ACF. The exam covers topics such as food safety and sanitation, nutrition, food preparation, and menu planning.

By becoming certified, head cooks demonstrate to employers and customers that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely prepare meals in a professional environment. Certification also gives head cooks recognition from their peers and could potentially lead to increased job opportunities. Additionally, some states may require head cooks to be certified in order to work in certain establishments.

Overall, head cook certification can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career or gain more credibility within the culinary industry. It is important for individuals to research the requirements for certification before beginning the process and ensure they are adequately prepared for the exam.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the head cook certification requirements in your area before applying. Different areas have different requirements and you want to ensure that you meet all of them before submitting an application.

Related: What does a Head Cook do?

Top 11 Head Cook Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Head Cooks today.

1. Certified Executive Chef (CEC)

Certified Executive Chef (CEC) is a professional certification offered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). It is the highest level of certification for chefs and requires a combination of education, experience, and passing an exam. The CEC certification signifies that a chef has achieved the highest level of knowledge in culinary arts and management.

It typically takes several years to become eligible for the CEC certification. To be eligible, you must have at least five years of professional cooking experience as well as two years of management experience in a foodservice operation. You must also have completed at least 300 hours of continuing education or apprenticeship training from an accredited institution.

To obtain your CEC certification, you must complete an application form, submit proof of eligibility requirements, and pass a written exam. The exam consists of three sections: Food Production & Service; Food Safety & Sanitation; and Management & Human Resources.

The cost to apply for the CEC certification is $300 for ACF members and $350 for non-members. This fee covers the cost of processing your application, administering the exam, and providing your certificate upon successful completion.

2. Certified Culinary Administrator (CCA)

Certified Culinary Administrator (CCA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). The CCA program is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of experienced culinary professionals. It is intended for those who have achieved significant experience in the field of culinary arts and management.

The CCA program consists of three levels: Certified Culinary Administrator (CCA), Certified Executive Chef (CEC), and Certified Master Chef (CMC). Each level requires a different amount of experience, education, and training. To become a CCA, applicants must have at least five years of full-time professional culinary experience, including two years in a supervisory role. They must also complete an ACF-approved course in food safety and sanitation management or equivalent training.

The process to become a CCA takes approximately four to six months from start to finish. Applicants must first create an online profile with the ACF and submit their application along with all required documents. Once approved, they will be required to take the ACF Certification Exam for Certified Culinary Administrators which covers topics such as food safety and sanitation management, nutrition principles, menu planning, cost control systems, personnel management, customer service skills, purchasing principles, marketing strategies for restaurants/catering operations, recipe development/standardization techniques and more.

The cost for the CCA program varies depending on your membership status with the ACF. For non-members it is $400 plus applicable taxes; for members it is $350 plus applicable taxes; and for student members it is $300 plus applicable taxes.

3. Certified Master Chef (CMC)

Certified Master Chef (CMC) is the highest level of professional culinary certification available in the United States and is recognized worldwide. It is a rigorous program that requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in all aspects of food preparation, cooking, and management. The program consists of three parts: a written examination, a practical examination, and an oral examination.

The written examination tests a candidate’s knowledge of food theory, nutrition, sanitation, safety, menu planning, cost control and other topics related to professional cooking. The practical exam requires the candidate to prepare a variety of dishes from different cuisines. The oral exam tests the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively with customers and staff.

It usually takes two years or more to complete the CMC program. To become certified as a master chef, candidates must pass all three examinations with at least 75% accuracy on each one. Candidates must also have at least five years of professional experience in the culinary field before they can apply for certification.

The cost for taking the CMC program varies depending on where you take it and what materials are included in the course fees. Generally speaking, it could range anywhere from $1,500-$5,000 USD depending on what type of institution you take it through and what materials are included in your course fees.

4. Certified Sous Chef (CSC)

Certified Sous Chef (CSC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of experienced sous chefs. The program is administered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). To be eligible for the CSC certification, candidates must have at least three years of full-time work experience as a sous chef in a commercial kitchen.

The CSC program consists of a written exam that tests candidates on their knowledge of food safety, knife skills, culinary techniques, nutrition, menu planning, and more. Candidates must also complete an ACF-approved apprenticeship or educational program prior to taking the exam. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $200.

Once candidates pass the exam they will receive their CSC certificate from the ACF. This certificate is valid for five years and can be renewed by completing continuing education activities such as attending conferences or workshops related to culinary arts.

The CSC certification is an important credential for sous chefs looking to advance their careers in the culinary industry. It demonstrates mastery of essential skills needed to excel in a professional kitchen setting and provides employers with assurance that their staff has been trained to meet industry standards.

5. Certified Professional Cook (CPC)

Certified Professional Cook (CPC) is a professional certification that recognizes the highest level of culinary achievement. It is awarded by the American Culinary Federation (ACF), the leading professional organization for chefs and cooks in the United States.

To become a Certified Professional Cook, an individual must have a minimum of three years of full-time work experience as a cook or chef, complete a written examination, and submit to an ACF-approved review board. The review board evaluates each candidate’s education, experience, and technical competency. Once approved, the individual receives their CPC designation.

The process takes approximately four to six months from start to finish. The cost of obtaining the CPC certification varies depending on how many exams are taken and whether or not any additional training is required. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200-$500 USD to obtain the certification.

6. Certified Food Safety Manager (CFM)

A Certified Food Safety Manager (CFM) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to manage food safety in a commercial foodservice establishment. This certification is required by most states for anyone responsible for overseeing food preparation, storage, and service.

To become certified as a CFM, individuals must complete an accredited training program and pass an exam. The length of the training program varies by provider but typically takes between 10-15 hours to complete. After completing the training, individuals must take and pass the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP) exam in order to become certified.

The cost of becoming a CFM varies depending on the provider; however, it typically costs between $150-$200 for the training course and $100-$125 for the NRFSP exam.

7. ServSafe Certification

ServSafe Certification is a food safety certification program developed by the National Restaurant Association. It is designed to help food service operators and staff protect customers from foodborne illness by teaching them how to properly handle, store, cook, and serve food. The certification program includes an exam that tests the knowledge of food safety principles and practices.

It typically takes about two hours to complete the ServSafe Certification Exam. To get certified, you must first purchase a ServSafe Food Protection Manager’s Certificate Exam kit from the National Restaurant Association. The kit includes a book with information on food safety principles and practices as well as a proctored exam voucher. Once you have purchased the kit, you can register for an exam at an approved testing center or online through the National Restaurant Association website.

The cost of the ServSafe Certification Exam varies depending on where you take it and if you purchase additional materials such as study guides or practice exams. Generally speaking, the cost of taking the exam ranges from $50-$100 USD.

Once you have successfully completed the exam, your certificate will be mailed to you within two weeks of completing it. Your certificate will be valid for five years before needing to be renewed with another exam.

8. American Culinary Federation Certification

The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification is a professional credential that recognizes the knowledge and experience of chefs in the culinary industry. It is a nationally recognized certification that is earned by passing an exam administered by the ACF. The certification is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years to maintain its validity.

To earn the ACF Certification, you must have at least two years of work experience in the culinary field, or have completed a culinary program from an accredited school. You must also pass a written exam that tests your knowledge of food safety, sanitation, nutrition, menu planning and other topics related to cooking. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your location and whether or not you are already a member of the ACF.

Once you’ve passed the exam, you will receive your certification card in the mail within four to six weeks. You may also choose to purchase additional items such as pins, hats or jackets with your certification logo on them to show off your accomplishment.

The cost of getting certified can vary depending on how much experience you have and what type of membership you choose with the ACF. For example, if you are already a member of the ACF then there may be discounts available for taking the exam or purchasing additional items such as pins or jackets with your certification logo on them.

9. National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Certification

The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide restaurant professionals with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the restaurant industry. The program offers certifications in various areas of expertise, including food safety, customer service, hospitality management, and nutrition.

To obtain a NRAEF Certification, individuals must complete an online application and submit it to the NRAEF. Once approved, applicants will be required to take an online assessment that covers the topics of their chosen certification area. Upon successful completion of the assessment, applicants will be awarded their NRAEF Certification.

The length of time it takes to get a NRAEF Certification depends on the individual's experience and knowledge in the chosen certification area. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6-12 weeks for an individual to receive their certification after submitting their application.

In order to get a NRAEF Certification, individuals must first complete an online application on the organization’s website. Once approved, applicants will be required to take an online assessment that covers the topics of their chosen certification area. Upon successful completion of the assessment, applicants will be awarded their NRAEF Certification.

The cost for obtaining a NRAEF Certification varies depending on which certification area you choose. Prices range from $50-$250 USD per certification area.

10. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Certification

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) is an internationally-recognized system for food safety management. It is a preventive approach to food safety that focuses on identifying and controlling hazards associated with food production, from raw material production to final consumption. HACCP certification helps ensure that food products are safe for human consumption by identifying and managing potential biological, chemical, and physical hazards.

The process of getting HACCP certified can take anywhere from 3 months to a year depending on the complexity of the organization’s operations. The first step in the process is for the organization to develop a written HACCP plan that meets all of the requirements set forth by the International HACCP Alliance. This plan must be reviewed and approved by a third-party certification body before it can be implemented. Once this has been completed, an auditor will visit the facility to assess whether or not it meets all of the requirements outlined in the HACCP plan. If it does, then they will issue a certificate of compliance which confirms that the organization is officially HACCP certified.

The cost of getting HACCP certified can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of your business, number of employees, type of product being produced, and other factors related to your specific operations. Generally speaking, however, you should expect to pay between $2,500 - $10,000 for initial certification costs. This includes fees for developing a written HACCP plan, conducting an audit and issuing a certificate of compliance.

11. Safe Quality Food (SQF) Practitioner Certification

Safe Quality Food (SQF) Practitioner Certification is a certification program offered by the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI). It is designed to ensure that food safety and quality management systems are in place and functioning properly. The certification provides assurance to customers, suppliers, and regulators that the food products produced by an SQF-certified organization meet the highest standards of safety and quality.

To become an SQF Practitioner, you must complete a training course provided by SQFI or an approved third-party provider. The course typically takes two days to complete and covers topics such as food safety fundamentals, hazard analysis and risk assessment, HACCP principles, food defense, sanitation best practices, supplier management, product traceability, internal auditing techniques, and more.

Once you have completed the training course successfully, you will be eligible to take the SQF Practitioner Exam. This exam consists of multiple choice questions related to food safety topics covered in the training course. You must pass this exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive your SQF Practitioner Certification.

The cost of the training course varies depending on which provider you choose; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD per person. The cost of the exam is included in the cost of the training course.

Once you have received your certification, it is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. To renew your certification you must retake the SQF Practitioner Exam every three years or participate in continuing education activities approved by SQFI.

Do You Really Need a Head Cook Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals. For those who are looking to work in a professional kitchen, having a Head Cook Certificate can be very beneficial. It demonstrates that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a professional kitchen environment and can help them stand out from other applicants.

For those who are not looking to pursue a career as a head cook, it is less of an issue. The certificate may still be beneficial if they plan on working in a kitchen or food service setting, but it is not as important for someone who does not plan on pursuing that type of career.

At the end of the day, whether or not someone needs a Head Cook Certificate depends on their individual goals and what they want to do with their career. It can be very helpful for some people but may not be necessary for others.

Related: Head Cook Resume Examples

FAQs About Head Cook Certifications

1. What is a Head Cook Certification?

Answer: A Head Cook Certification is a professional certification for individuals who are responsible for the overall management of food preparation and service in a commercial kitchen. This includes food safety, sanitation, menu planning, purchasing, and personnel management.

2. How do I get certified as a Head Cook?

Answer: To become certified as a Head Cook you must successfully complete an accredited program that meets the standards set by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). You must also pass an exam administered by the NRAEF to obtain your certification.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Head Cook?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Head Cook will demonstrate your expertise to potential employers, provide increased job security, and can lead to higher pay and promotions within the food service industry. Additionally, you may be eligible for certain grants or scholarships if you hold this certification.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Head Cook?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified depends on how much experience you have in food service and how quickly you can complete the necessary courses or training programs required for certification. Generally speaking, it typically takes between 6-12 months to complete all requirements and obtain your certification.

5. Is there any continuing education required after I am certified as a Head Cook?

Answer: Yes, continuing education is required in order to maintain your certification as a head cook. You must complete at least 8 hours of approved continuing education every two years in order to keep your certification current and valid.