Sous Chef Salary in Amarillo, TX
Sous Chefs in Amarillo, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Amarillo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth prospects in the culinary field within the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Amarillo, TX?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Amarillo varies according to experience and workplace. Here is a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.99 | $439.60 | $1,904.27 | $22,871.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.31 | $652.40 | $2,816.53 | $33,796.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.20 | $968.00 | $4,190.67 | $50,336.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Amarillo Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is mostly kitchen-based and behind the scenes. Their compensation mainly consists of salary or hourly wages without additional tip income.
Sous Chef Salary in Amarillo vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of approximately $14.50 per hour, totaling around $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Amarillo earn a higher hourly wage of about $18.00 and an annual salary of $37,440. This indicates that compensation in Amarillo exceeds national norms, possibly reflecting the local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Amarillo for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas to Amarillo offer varied pay scales. The highest-paying neighborhoods include:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- West Amarillo: $17.60 per hour
Working in Downtown Amarillo generally offers higher earnings for Sous Chefs compared to West Amarillo.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Amarillo?
Several key factors impact the salary of a Sous Chef in Amarillo:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary skills and leadership abilities tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies often pay more than casual dining or fast food locations.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees and certifications, such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential, can boost earning potential.
- Location: Establishments in higher-paying neighborhoods may offer better compensation.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working nights, weekends, or holidays might include shift differentials that increase pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Amarillo
Becoming a Sous Chef in Amarillo involves several essential steps:
- Formal Culinary Training: Pursuing programs like the AmTech Career Academy Culinary Arts Program, which offers hands-on training in a fully equipped kitchen, or the Amarillo College Culinary Arts Program, providing certificates and associate degrees with internships, can build foundational skills.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining credentials such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification ensures knowledge of critical food safety practices and is often required for kitchen supervisors.
- Professional Certification: Earning the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates culinary competence and can enhance career opportunities.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start by working in entry-level culinary positions like line cook or prep cook to gain practical skills and advance through the kitchen hierarchy.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Amarillo
The following establishments are known for hiring Sous Chefs in Amarillo:
- The Big Texan Steak Ranch
- Crush Wine Bar & Grill
- Tyler's Barbeque
- OHMS Cafe & Bar
- Coyote Bluff Cafe
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Amarillo Work At
Sous Chefs in Amarillo typically work in a variety of culinary establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide a structured kitchen with moderate salaries and opportunities for advancement.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These establishments usually offer higher wages and require refined culinary skills and presentation techniques.
- Hotels and Resorts: Sous Chefs here may receive competitive pay and benefits due to the larger scale and prestige of the establishment.
- Catering Companies: The work can be dynamic and seasonal, with pay varying based on event frequency.
- Fast Casual or Quick Service: Typically offer lower salaries but can be a starting point for many culinary professionals.
The type and reputation of the establishment greatly affect a Sous Chef’s salary, with upscale and high-volume venues paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Amarillo for Sous Chefs
Those pursuing a career as a Sous Chef may consider related roles to broaden their expertise or career options.
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Executive Chef, which offer various advancement opportunities within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Amarillo
Sous Chefs in Amarillo should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Texas government website for detailed information on state labor laws, minimum wage, overtime, and employment standards.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website provides federal resources on labor laws, workplace safety, and wage regulations.