Sous Chef Salary in Anchorage, AK
Sous Chefs in Anchorage, AK, in 2026, earn approximately $22.50 per hour, which translates to about $900.00 per week, $3,900.00 per month, and $46,800.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Anchorage is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy outlook for job opportunities in this culinary leadership position in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Anchorage, AK?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Anchorage varies depending on experience and employer, but the following chart provides a clear overview of typical earnings at various career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Anchorage Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role focuses primarily on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come mainly from their salary or wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Anchorage vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $20.00 per hour, translating to about $41,600.00 per year.
Compared to the national averages, Sous Chefs in Anchorage earn more, with approximately $22.50 per hour and $46,800.00 annually. This difference can be attributed to local economic factors and the specific demands of the Anchorage culinary market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Anchorage for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas to Anchorage also offer competitive pay for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Anchorage: $24.00 per hour
- Midtown Anchorage: $23.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown Anchorage tend to enjoy the highest pay, reflecting the concentration of upscale dining and hospitality venues in that area.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Anchorage?
Several factors play a significant role in determining the salary of a Sous Chef in Anchorage:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced kitchen skills and leadership abilities can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts tend to offer better salaries compared to casual dining or smaller eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary degrees or certifications such as those from accredited culinary schools can improve earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Work Hours: Late shifts, weekends, and holiday hours may include pay premiums depending on the employer.
- Local Demand and Economic Conditions: Anchorage’s market dynamics affect salary scales, with higher competition for skilled kitchen professionals driving wages upward.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Anchorage
Pursuing a career as a Sous Chef in Anchorage involves several important steps:
- Enroll in culinary education programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at University of Alaska Anchorage, which offers extensive hands-on training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Consider specialized training at institutions like the Alaska Culinary Academy at AVTEC, known for practical culinary instruction aligned with industry standards.
- Obtain necessary certifications including the ServSafe Food Manager Certification, a nationally recognized credential for food safety knowledge.
- Secure state-required credentials such as the Alaska Food Worker Card, mandatory for food service workers to ensure compliance with local handling regulations.
- Gain experience working in kitchens under skilled Chefs to develop leadership and technical skills essential for Sous Chefs.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Anchorage
Anchorage hosts several prominent employers regularly seeking qualified Sous Chefs, including:
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown
- Crow's Nest at Hotel Captain Cook
- Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Anchorage Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment across a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Fine dining restaurants: These establishments often provide high-end cuisine and employ Sous Chefs who earn more due to the demanding skill set required.
- Hotels and resorts: Larger hospitality venues tend to have well-structured kitchen operations offering attractive salaries and benefits.
- Casual and fast-casual restaurants: These may offer fewer opportunities for higher wages, but provide valuable experience and stable employment.
- Catering companies and banquet halls: Sous Chefs here manage large-scale meal preparations and sometimes benefit from event-related premium pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence the salary and career advancement opportunities available for Sous Chefs in Anchorage.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Anchorage for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to Sous Chef, here are a few similar roles worth exploring:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager, all of which involve culinary leadership and management responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Anchorage
Sous Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations that affect their employment in Anchorage, including:
- Federal employment regulations are available through the Federal Department of Labor website, which covers wage and hour laws.
- State-specific workforce information, labor standards, and employment services are accessible via the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development website.
- Local government resources, regulations, and community services can be found on the Municipality of Anchorage official website.