So, you want to become a sous chef. Perhaps you’ve been on a culinary vacation and decided: boy, I really love food, I think I’ll be a sous chef. Or perhaps you’re the type to watch Hell’s Kitchen and think: if those restaurateurs are willing to put that much money up for competition—then maybe there’s more to it. Or better yet, perhaps you’re reading this from your cubicle chair longing for a professional change. Whatever the reason, if you’re wondering what the average salary for a sous chef is at any given restaurant or small business—look no further!
The average salary for a sous chef is $57,000.
Average salary for sous chef
What you need to know: The Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn’t break out specific salary data for sous chefs, but based on the figures for executive chefs, we think that the average sous chef salary hovers around $45,000. It’s important to remember that salaries can vary wildly from one location to another, so be sure to research your local market to ensure that you’re being paid a fair rate for your work.
Positions as a sous chef can vary greatly, with some earning significantly more or less than this data set. It all depends on the individual, the position, and the intended area of work. In general, those who are focused on kitchen renovations and design will earn a higher wage than the average.
What I’ve learned. The skills and hard work it takes to land the prestigious gig of Sous Chef is unreal. Making the move from different stations to sous is a HUGE step, especially since there’s no real distinction between you and any line cook. You need to show your commitment for this job and really be able to be an example for the entire kitchen. It has taught me a lot about being a leader because that is essentially what you’re doing when moving from line to sous. One of the biggest things I’ve learned from this whole experience is that you should never be satisfied with where you are at in this industry. You can learn something new everyday if you’re willing to put yourself out there by working on personal projects or attending classes at your local culinary institute. I’ve really come to realize that through all the good times and bad times of cooking professionally, I’m always learning new things each time I go out into that kitchen. Nothing else matters except what’s in front of you which in my case was our guests, who you know as soon as they walk in are expecting nothing but to enjoy their evening here at Talde (and hopefully leave with a full belly). My main goal was to give them the experience we promised
[type of cook], who does everything from run the kitchen to manage inventory and scheduling, earns a median salary of $45,000. However, salaries can vary greatly depending on the cook’s employment status and location. People who work for themselves can make a lot more than those working in corporate kitchens. The highest earners are executive chefs at some high-end restaurants or hotels.
Chef is one of the highest paid jobs in the hospitality industry. According to BLS data from May 2014, chefs and head cooks earned a median salary of $48,330 per year or about $24.28 per hour. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned $20,880 or less per year, while the highest-paid 10 percent earned $75,460 or more per year. Many chefs run businesses on their own, so annual incomes above $75,000 are common for people in this profession. Of course, other factors such as position within the company and where they are employed will affect income greatly too.
It follows the same principles that are applied in the fine-dining business, but it’s a completely different environment. The type of food that is served is determined by what is available and the ingredients available to local growers. This type of cooking appeals to those who are accustomed to only eating high quality foods and have experienced different types of cooking techniques.
