Professional chefs are experienced cooks who can plan, prepare and make interesting and tasty food for restaurants, entertainment venues, hotels and other businesses. Depending on the role, they might specialize in a type of food such as pastries or handle a full menu. Professional chefs also help maintain the kitchen and may have additional business duties such as marketing or human resources management. Since they can work in a variety of businesses and hold different job titles, a professional chef income can vary widely based on experience, location and work setting. Generally, kitchen chef earnings fall on the lower end of the pay scale, while executive chefs make more for their culinary expertise and leadership duties. Job title, establishment, location and experience have an impact on actual pay. Professional chefs have the responsibility of designing new dishes, creating menus and making tasty food that is cooked safely.