Sous Chef Salary in Baltimore, MD
Sous Chefs in Baltimore, MD, in 2025, earn approximately $30.78 per hour, which translates to about $1,231.20 per week, $5,335.20 per month, and $64,022.40 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Baltimore is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and expanding opportunities in the local culinary and hospitality industries.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Baltimore, MD?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Baltimore varies depending on experience and employer. Here’s an overview of typical earnings based on experience level.
| 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) | $30.78 | $1,231.20 | $5,335.20 | $64,022.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.71 | $1,588.40 | $6,857.07 | $82,596.80 |
Do Sous Chefs in Baltimore Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Their earnings usually consist of salary or wages rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Baltimore vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn on average around $25.00 per hour, translating to approximately $52,000 per year.
Comparatively, Sous Chefs in Baltimore earn a higher hourly wage, about $30.78 per hour, and annual pay of $64,022.40, reflecting the local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Baltimore for Sous Chefs
Nearby cities offer competitive salaries for Sous Chefs. For example:
- Gaithersburg: $36.96 per hour
- Chevy Chase: $34.60 per hour
Sous Chefs in Gaithersburg can expect significantly higher wages, while Chevy Chase also offers above-average pay compared to Baltimore.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Baltimore?
Several factors affect how much a Sous Chef earns in Baltimore:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs with proven culinary and managerial skills earn higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in different cuisines, kitchen management, and certifications can boost pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often pay more than casual dining or fast casual venues.
- Size and Reputation of the Employer: Large or well-known hospitality groups generally offer better compensation and benefits.
- Work Schedule and Shifts: Working nights, weekends, or holidays can sometimes come with additional pay incentives.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Baltimore
Becoming a Sous Chef in Baltimore involves a mix of education, experience, and certifications:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the Baltimore International College Culinary Arts Program and Stratford University Culinary Arts Degree provide essential training in cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as ServSafe are often required to ensure knowledge of proper food handling and kitchen safety.
- Professional Certification: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential by the American Culinary Federation can enhance career prospects by validating skills and leadership.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many start as line cooks or junior kitchen staff moving up to Sous Chef through demonstrated skill and reliability.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Baltimore
Some prominent employers recruiting Sous Chefs in Baltimore include:
- Marriott International
- Johns Hopkins University
- Hilton
- Clyde's Restaurant Group
- CulinArt
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Baltimore Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment in various settings:
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These establishments usually offer the highest salaries due to complex menus and higher customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues provide stable employment and opportunities for growth with competitive pay.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Work here can involve diverse menus and often requires managing large-scale food preparation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Although pay may be more modest, these places offer entry points and steady work for aspiring Sous Chefs.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with more prestigious venues tending to offer higher compensation and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Baltimore for Sous Chefs
If you're exploring jobs related to the Sous Chef position, consider these similar roles:
These positions include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager, all of which involve culinary leadership and skill-building opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Baltimore
Sous Chefs in Baltimore should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Maryland-specific labor laws and resources are available at the Maryland Department of Labor website.