Sous Chef Salary in Albuquerque, NM
Sous Chefs in Albuquerque, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $26.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,060.00 per week, $4,593.33 per month, and $55,120.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Albuquerque is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating increasing opportunities and a positive job outlook for culinary professionals in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Albuquerque, NM?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Albuquerque varies depending on experience, the establishment, and skill level. Here is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.30 | $892.00 | $3,865.33 | $46,384.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.50 | $1,060.00 | $4,593.33 | $55,120.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Albuquerque Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is generally behind the scenes in kitchen operations. Their compensation mostly comes in the form of salaries or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Albuquerque vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $27.00 per hour, translating to approximately $56,160.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Albuquerque earn slightly less hourly and annually, with $26.50 per hour and $55,120.00 per year, reflecting regional cost of living and market differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albuquerque for Sous Chefs
Nearby neighborhoods offering higher pay for Sous Chefs include:
- Downtown: $27.50 per hour
- Nob Hill: $28.00 per hour
These areas feature upscale dining and hospitality venues, often providing better compensation to culinary professionals.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Albuquerque?
Several factors influence how much a Sous Chef can earn in Albuquerque:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or resort kitchens often pay more than casual dining or fast-casual settings.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications and formal education can boost earning potential.
- Location: Working in higher-paying neighborhoods like Downtown or Nob Hill can increase salary.
- Responsibility and Management: Sous Chefs who manage larger teams or specific kitchen operations generally earn more.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Albuquerque
Launching a career as a Sous Chef involves a combination of education, certification, and hands-on experience.
Education is Key: Programs like the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training combining theory and practical skills essential for culinary success.
Additionally, the University of New Mexico Continuing Education Culinary Program provides courses covering various cuisines and techniques, perfect for aspiring chefs and seasoned cooks looking to enhance their craft.
Certifications: Earning credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification can significantly improve job prospects and salary expectations.
Gain Experience: Starting from entry-level kitchen roles and progressively taking on more responsibility is crucial for becoming a skilled Sous Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Albuquerque
Albuquerque hosts a range of employers seeking talented Sous Chefs:
- Sandia Resort & Casino
- Hyatt Regency Albuquerque
- SAGE Dining Services
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Albuquerque Work At
Sous Chefs commonly work in diverse settings, each influencing salary levels:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to the high skill level required and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive wages and benefits for experienced chefs.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These usually offer moderate pay but can provide valuable experience for career growth.
- Catering Services: May vary widely in pay based on event scale and clientele.
The type of establishment significantly affects a Sous Chef’s earning potential and career development opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albuquerque for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in roles similar to Sous Chef, consider exploring related culinary careers that also offer growth potential.
Careers such as Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager are closely related and can provide alternative or progressive career paths within the hospitality and culinary industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Albuquerque
Understanding labor laws and taxation is essential for Sous Chefs to maintain compliance and manage their employment effectively.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For New Mexico-specific employment regulations and worker resources, see the New Mexico government website.