Sous Chef Salary in Billings, MT
Sous Chefs in Billings, MT, in 2026, earn approximately $24.00 per hour, which translates to about $960.00 per week, $4,160.00 per month, and $49,920.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Billings is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job seekers and culinary professionals looking to advance in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Billings, MT?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Billings varies with experience and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Billings Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is mostly behind the scenes in kitchen management and food preparation. Their compensation is generally salary or hourly wages without tip income.
Sous Chef Salary in Billings vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn around $23.00 per hour, which amounts to about $47,840.00 per year.
Comparing this with Billings, MT, we see that Sous Chefs in this city earn slightly more hourly at $24.00 per hour, translating to an annual salary of $49,920.00, indicating a favorable wage environment.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Billings for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown: $25.00 per hour
- West End: $26.00 per hour
These neighborhoods offer higher wage opportunities for Sous Chefs potentially due to the concentration of upscale restaurants and culinary venues.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Billings?
Several important factors influence the salary of a Sous Chef in Billings:
- Experience: More experienced Sous Chefs command higher wages due to their refined culinary techniques and leadership capabilities.
- Skills: Proficiency in managing kitchen staff, food safety, and different cuisines can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and hotels tend to pay more than casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications: Having credentials such as ServSafe Certification or Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification can increase salary prospects.
- Local Demand: The growth and popularity of the restaurant industry in Billings can affect wage rates.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Billings
Becoming a Sous Chef typically requires formal culinary training and hands-on experience. Key steps include:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Montana State University Billings Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive training with real kitchen experience. Likewise, City College at MSU Billings Culinary Arts Program provides a two-year Associate of Applied Science focusing on practical skills.
- Get Certified: Obtaining important credentials like ServSafe Certification and Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can demonstrate competence and enhance job prospects.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Starting as a Line Cook or Commis Chef helps develop critical skills under senior chefs.
- Build Leadership Skills: As the Sous Chef leads kitchen teams, strong organizational and communication skills are essential.
For more information on culinary education and certifications, explore official culinary education resources.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Billings
Several well-known eateries in Billings regularly seek skilled Sous Chefs:
- Walker’s Grill
- The Burger Dive
- Fieldhouse Eatery & Pub
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Billings Work At
Sous Chefs commonly work in various settings including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often provide higher salaries and opportunities for creativity and specialization.
- Casual Dining: Pay may be moderate but consistent, with opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations can offer competitive wages and benefits.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: These might offer stable employment but often at lower wage levels.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Sous Chef’s salary due to factors like clientele, menu complexity, and prestige.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Billings for Sous Chefs
If you’re interested in careers similar to Sous Chef, consider these roles that share culinary expertise and responsibilities:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager, each occupying critical culinary roles within kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Billings
Understanding work regulations and tax responsibilities is important for Sous Chefs in Billings:
- Visit the Montana Department of Labor and Industry official website for state labor laws including wage and hour rules.
- For federal tax guidelines and regulations, check the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) official website.