Sous Chef Salary in Birmingham, AL
Sous Chefs in Birmingham, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $28.99 per hour, which translates to about $1,159.60 per week, $5,024.93 per month, and $60,299.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Birmingham is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in culinary leadership roles across the city's thriving food scene.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Birmingham, AL?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Birmingham varies based on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across typical career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.89 | $915.60 | $3,965.20 | $47,539.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.99 | $1,159.60 | $5,024.93 | $60,299.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.69 | $1,467.60 | $6,345.47 | $76,195.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Birmingham Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips because their role focuses on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are primarily salary or wages without additional tip income.
Sous Chef Salary in Birmingham vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average hourly wage of $28.99 and annual pay around $60,299.20.
Sous Chefs in Birmingham earn salaries comparable to the national average, reflecting the city's stable but competitive culinary industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Birmingham for Sous Chefs
If you're considering opportunities nearby, here are some high-paying areas for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Birmingham: $30.50 per hour
- Mountain Brook: $32.00 per hour
These areas may offer higher wages due to upscale dining scenes and demand for experienced kitchen leadership.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Birmingham?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Birmingham is influenced by a range of factors that could affect earning potential:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with refined culinary techniques and leadership qualities tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels often pay more compared to casual or fast-casual venues.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) adds value and may increase salary.
- Kitchen Size and Responsibilities: Larger kitchens or those with more complex operations typically offer better compensation.
- Local Demand and Competition: Culinary hotspots in Birmingham or surrounding areas may offer premium pay to attract top talent.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Birmingham
Building a career as a Sous Chef in Birmingham involves several important steps:
- Gain Professional Culinary Training: Programs like those offered at Jefferson State Community College Culinary and Hospitality Institute provide comprehensive culinary arts education with hands-on training.
- Consider Culinary Schools: Institutions such as Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College, focus on kitchen management and practical culinary skills valuable for a Sous Chef.
- Obtain Industry Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Certification ensure knowledge of food safety principles, while the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential acknowledges advanced culinary competence.
- Acquire Kitchen Experience: Working in entry-level positions such as line cook or commis chef helps build foundational skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Birmingham
Several renowned establishments in Birmingham actively seek qualified Sous Chefs:
- Perry's Steakhouse and Grille
- North Italia
- Marriott International
- Highlands Bar & Grill
- Bottega Restaurant
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Birmingham Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment in a variety of culinary settings, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often require high skill levels and offer higher pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations with diverse menus can provide competitive salaries and benefits.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Although pay may be moderate, these venues offer opportunities for gaining experience and advancement.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: These require coordination and flexibility, influencing compensation accordingly.
The type of establishment directly impacts a Sous Chef's salary, responsibilities, and career progression.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Birmingham for Sous Chefs
For those exploring careers related to the Sous Chef role, consider these similar positions that share culinary and management skills:
Popular related careers include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager, roles that involve leadership and creative culinary responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Birmingham
Sous Chefs in Birmingham should familiarize themselves with labor regulations and tax rules to ensure compliance and informed career decisions.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive information on worker rights, wage laws, and workplace safety.
- The State website for the Alabama Department of Labor provides localized details about state labor standards and employer requirements.