Sous Chef Salary in Bend, OR
Sous Chefs in Bend, OR, in 2026, earn approximately $30.64 per hour, which translates to about $1,225.60 per week, $5,310.93 per month, and $63,731.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Bend is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industries in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Bend, OR?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Bend varies based on experience and skill level, with different pay scales for entry, mid, and top-level professionals.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.69 | $867.60 | $3,754.40 | $45,052.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.64 | $1,225.60 | $5,310.93 | $63,731.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.54 | $1,461.60 | $6,296.40 | $75,979.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Bend Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips directly, as their primary responsibilities are in the kitchen rather than customer-facing roles. However, some establishments may include tip pooling or bonuses, but these are not guaranteed or consistent.
Sous Chef Salary in Bend vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $31.25 per hour, which is about $65,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Bend earn slightly below the hourly average at $30.64 per hour and slightly less annually at $63,731.20. This reflects regional cost of living and local market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bend for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Bend: $32.00 per hour
- Old Mill District: $31.50 per hour
These areas offer modestly higher wages compared to the general Bend average, possibly due to more upscale dining and higher cost of living.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Bend?
Experience and skill level play crucial roles in determining salary. Sous Chefs with several years in the kitchen and specialized culinary skills tend to earn more.
Type of establishment also matters significantly. Fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels usually offer higher pay than casual or fast-casual eateries.
Certifications and training, including culinary school credentials, can boost a Sous Chef’s earning potential and job prospects.
Additionally, responsibility scope such as managing kitchen staff or inventory can also impact salary.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Bend
Pursuing a career as a Sous Chef in Bend involves both education and practical experience.
Consider enrolling in professional culinary programs such as those at Cascade Culinary Institute, which offers comprehensive training focused on cooking techniques, or the Central Oregon Community College Culinary Arts Program that provides an Associate of Applied Science degree with an emphasis on practical skills and kitchen management.
Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of food and beverage safety, which is highly valued by employers.
In Oregon, the Oregon Food Handler's Card is mandatory for all food service workers, further underscoring food safety compliance.
Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level kitchen positions helps build skills necessary to advance to a Sous Chef role.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Bend
Several prominent local employers are known for hiring skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- Deschutes Brewery
- McMenamins Old St. Francis School
- Tetherow Resort
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Bend Work At
Sous Chefs commonly work in a variety of hospitality settings:
- Fine dining restaurants: These typically offer higher salaries and demand refined culinary skills.
- Hotels and resorts: Larger establishments with extensive food service operations often provide stable employment with competitive pay.
- Casual dining and fast-casual: These places offer more entry-level opportunities but usually lower salaries compared to upscale venues.
- Breweries and gastropubs: Popular in Bend, these establishments may vary widely in pay depending on prestige and size.
The type of establishment significantly influences pay, with upscale and large-scale venues tending to offer better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bend for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in roles similar to Sous Chef, consider exploring related positions in the hospitality field.
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles, which often require similar skills and experience but may offer different responsibilities and earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Bend
Sous Chefs should familiarize themselves with applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights and obligations.
- For Oregon state regulations, visit the official website of the state of Oregon.
- For federal labor laws and standards, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive information and resources.