How Much Does a Sous Chef Make?

The culinary world offers an endless array of opportunities, with Sous Chef being one of them. The salary of a Sous Chef is influenced by several factors. One significant factor is experience; more seasoned Sous Chefs often command a higher salary. This could be because they have honed their skills, gained proficiency in managing kitchens and staff, and developed a deep understanding of the complexities of food preparation and presentation.

In addition to experience, education plays a crucial role in determining a Sous Chef's salary. Those who have pursued formal culinary education or certification courses typically earn more than those who haven't. Specialization in particular cuisines or culinary techniques can also boost a Sous Chef's earnings. Lastly, location greatly impacts the salary scale; Sous Chefs working in urban areas or upscale establishments often earn more than those in rural or less affluent areas. The cost of living, local economy, and the establishment's reputation all influence the earnings in different locations.

Sous Chef Estimated Salary

High

$23.40/hour/hr

National Average

$20.82/hour/hr

Low

$16.58/hour/hr

Top Salary Locations for Sous Chef Jobs

25%+

15% to 24%

5% to 14%

Industry Average

-5% to -14%

-15% to -24%

-25% or more

Salary for Sous Chef Jobs Nationwide

Estimated salary range based on data from US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and iHireChefs research efforts.

How Do You Negotiate Salary as a Sous Chef?

Negotiating your salary as a Sous Chef can seem daunting, but it's a critical skill that can have a significant impact on your overall career growth and satisfaction. The key is to know your worth, understand the industry standards, and be able to articulate the value you bring to the table. One extremely helpful tool to assist you in this process is the iHireChef Salary Research Tool. This tool allows you to gain insights into the salary ranges for your career title and location, providing a solid foundation for your negotiation.

Now, if you're already employed as a Sous Chef and you're considering asking for a raise, ensure that you can clearly demonstrate the contributions you've made in your role. Maybe you've implemented processes that improved efficiency, or perhaps you've played a major role in raising the restaurant's profile. Highlight these achievements when discussing your raise. For those negotiating salary as a new hire, remember to take into account not just base pay, but the entire compensation package including benefits and opportunities for professional development. Armed with your research from the iHireChef Salary Research Tool, you'll be well-equipped to negotiate a fair and competitive salary.

Average Work Experience

Here's a breakdown of the number of years' experience offered by Sous Chefs

None

40.9%

2-4 years

25.9%

Less than 1 year

23.4%

1-2 years

6.2%

4-6 years

3.7%