Sous Chef Salary in Albany, NY
Sous Chefs in Albany, NY, in 2025, earn approximately $24.60 per hour, which translates to about $984.00 per week, $4,264.00 per month, and $51,168.00 per year.
The job market for Sous Chefs is experiencing positive growth of around 6% per year, indicating a healthy increase in demand for culinary professionals in the Albany area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Albany, NY?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Albany varies depending on experience level, culinary skills, and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.60 | $984.00 | $4,264.00 | $51,168.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.80 | $1,272.00 | $5,506.67 | $66,144.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Albany Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes, focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation mainly comes through salary or wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Albany vs. National Average
Across the United States, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $27.00 per hour or about $56,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Albany earn slightly less per hour, at $24.60, and roughly $51,168 annually. This could be influenced by region-specific cost of living and restaurant industry dynamics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albany for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Sous Chefs, including:
- Downtown Albany: $25.50 per hour
- Pine Hills: $26.00 per hour
Suburban areas like Pine Hills tend to offer higher wages compared to Downtown, possibly reflective of different dining establishments and economic factors.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Albany?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Albany can be influenced by several critical factors:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced cooking techniques and leadership abilities tend to earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels generally offer better compensation compared to casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Education and Certification: Formal culinary education and certifications often increase earning potential.
- Location Within Albany: Salaries vary between neighborhoods depending on the economic affluence and restaurant scene.
- Work Hours and Shift Types: Night or weekend shifts might come with premium pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Albany
There are clear steps aspiring Sous Chefs can take to establish themselves in Albany:
1. Pursue Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Schenectady County Community College offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety, preparing students for roles like Sous Chef. Similarly, the Culinary Arts Certificate at SUNY Adirondack provides foundational skills suitable for entry into this role.
2. Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) offered by the American Culinary Federation recognize professional competence and require a combination of education and hands-on experience. Additionally, the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is widely recognized in the industry for ensuring knowledge of food safety best practices.
3. Gain Practical Experience: Working as a line cook, commis chef, or in other kitchen roles to build skills and understand kitchen operations is essential.
4. Network and Seek Opportunities: Connect with local restaurants and culinary organizations in Albany to find openings and mentorship opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Albany
Several notable establishments in Albany that frequently hire Sous Chefs include:
- Yono's
- The Hollow Bar + Kitchen
- dp An American Brasserie
- New World Bistro Bar
- Iron Gate Cafe
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Albany Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment in a variety of food service establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer some of the highest salaries due to the level of skill and presentation required.
- Casual Dining: While salaries are generally moderate, these venues provide opportunities for leadership experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Offer competitive wages and benefits, often requiring management of larger kitchen teams.
- Banquet and Catering Services: Can provide seasonal or event-based opportunities with variable pay rates.
The type of establishment greatly impacts earnings, with fine dining environments typically paying the most for skilled Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albany for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in nearby or similar roles in the hospitality industry, consider the following careers:
These positions are Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager, each requiring a similar skill set with varying levels of leadership and responsibility.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Albany
Sous Chefs should be aware of relevant labor laws and taxation requirements to protect their rights and comply with regulations:
- For federal labor laws and employment statistics, visit dol.gov.
- For New York State-specific labor laws and employment services, refer to labor.ny.gov.