Sous Chef Salary in Akron, OH
Sous Chefs in Akron, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $22.62 per hour, which translates to about $904.80 per week, $3,920.80 per month, and $47,049.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Akron is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding culinary industry and increased demand for skilled kitchen management professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Akron, OH?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Akron can vary based on experience and the type of employer. Below is a general breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.22 | $608.80 | $2,636.53 | $31,661.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.62 | $904.80 | $3,920.80 | $47,049.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.60 | $1,344.00 | $5,824.00 | $69,888.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Akron Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role primarily focuses on kitchen management, food preparation, and assisting the Head Chef rather than direct customer interaction. Their earnings mostly come from their salary.
Sous Chef Salary in Akron vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $22.62 per hour, translating to approximately $47,049.60 per year.
Sous Chefs in Akron earn salaries that closely match the national average both hourly and annually, reflecting a competitive compensation for this role within the city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Akron for Sous Chefs
Nearby locations offering higher pay for Sous Chefs include:
- Downtown Akron: $24.00 per hour
- Fairlawn: $25.50 per hour
Sous Chefs considering commuting might find higher pay in Fairlawn compared to other nearby areas.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Akron?
Several key factors impact the salary potential of a Sous Chef in Akron:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary skills and leadership capabilities tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or country clubs typically offer better compensation than casual dining or fast-casual chains.
- Certifications and Training: Holding culinary certifications like Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can boost earning potential.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Prestigious or larger-scale establishments may provide higher salaries and more benefits.
- Local Economic Factors: The cost of living and demand for culinary professionals in Akron influence wage levels.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Akron
Building a career as a Sous Chef in Akron involves several important steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Akron Career Tech High School provide foundational skills in restaurant management, food production, and safety techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning a ServSafe Certification demonstrates knowledge of food and beverage safety standards, which is essential in kitchens.
- Earn Advanced Credentials: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification from the American Culinary Federation is a respected credential that can improve job prospects and salary.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level cooking roles and progressing to line cook or chef de partie positions helps develop skills and advance to sous chef.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Akron
Several notable establishments in Akron seeking qualified Sous Chefs include:
- Firestone Country Club
- Crave Restaurant
- The Lockview
- Luigi's Restaurant
- The Blue Door Cafe & Bakery
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Akron Work At
Sous Chefs typically work in a variety of food service establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher salaries often come with the opportunity to showcase advanced culinary techniques and leadership.
- Country Clubs and Hotels: These establishments usually offer stable employment with good benefits and competitive pay.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: While these offer more entry-level opportunities, salaries may be comparatively lower.
- Catering Companies: Variable pay depending on the size and volume of events.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary levels, with upscale and prestigious venues generally offering the highest compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Akron for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in careers similar to Sous Chef, here are a few closely related roles you might consider:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Chef de Partie, roles that involve related culinary and leadership skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Akron
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is vital for Sous Chefs working in Akron to ensure compliance and manage their earnings effectively.
- Learn about state-specific employment standards at the Ohio Department of Commerce.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website provides federal labor law information.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers data on wages, employment, and working conditions.