Sous Chef Salary in Athens, GA
Sous Chefs in Athens, GA, in 2026, earn approximately $25.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,000.00 per week, $4,333.33 per month, and $52,000.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Athens is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating an expanding job market and opportunities in the hospitality and culinary sectors.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Athens, GA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Athens can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview based on different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Athens Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role primarily focuses on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income mostly consists of their base salary or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Athens vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $25.00 per hour, translating to about $52,000 annually.
When compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Athens earn roughly the same hourly wage as the national median, reflecting competitive pay within the region's culinary industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Athens for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Athens: $27.00 per hour
- Five Points: $26.50 per hour
These nearby areas offer slightly higher pay, likely due to the presence of upscale dining establishments and higher living costs.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Athens?
Several important factors influence a Sous Chef’s salary in Athens, GA:
- Experience Level: More years in culinary arts and kitchen management generally translate to higher pay.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in specific cuisines or advanced culinary techniques can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Sous Chefs at fine dining restaurants or luxurious hotels often earn more than those in casual eateries.
- Location Within the City: Working in higher-paying areas like Downtown Athens or Five Points can impact salary.
- Certifications: Holding professional culinary certifications can demonstrate expertise and enhance pay potential.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Athens
To establish yourself as a Sous Chef in Athens, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Diploma at Athens Technical College offer comprehensive training in essential cooking skills, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Pursue Advanced Training: The Professional Chef Program at The Classic Center provides in-depth instruction on advanced cooking techniques, menu planning, and kitchen operations, ideal for career advancement.
- Earn Certifications: Nationally recognized credentials like the ServSafe Certification are essential for food safety. The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification from the American Culinary Federation further validates culinary expertise.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Work your way up through roles like line cook or chef de partie to develop practical skills and leadership abilities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Athens
Some prominent employers in Athens looking to hire qualified Sous Chefs include:
- University of Georgia Dining Services
- The Georgia Club
- The Classic Center
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Athens Work At
Sous Chefs commonly work across various types of food service establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These typically offer higher salaries reflecting the premium culinary demands and skills required.
- Catering Halls: Often require multitasking skills and can provide competitive pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations may offer better benefits and higher wages due to scale and prestige.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These may have lower salaries but provide excellent entry-level opportunities to gain experience.
The type and reputation of the establishment play a significant role in the earning potential of Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Athens for Sous Chefs
If you are considering roles similar to Sous Chef, here are a few related career paths you might explore:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions which require similar leadership and culinary skills but may vary in responsibilities and earning potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Athens
As a Sous Chef in Athens, it's important to understand the local labor laws and taxation rules to ensure compliance and manage your finances well.
- Learn about state labor regulations and employment assistance on the Georgia Department of Labor website.
- Understand federal taxes and employer responsibilities at the Internal Revenue Service website.