Sous Chef Salary in Boise, ID
Sous Chefs in Boise, ID, in 2026, earn an average of $29.55 per hour, which amounts to approximately $1,182.00 per week, $5,122.00 per month, and $61,464.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Boise is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and a thriving culinary industry in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Boise, ID?
Sous Chefs in Boise earn varying salaries based on their level of experience and expertise. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different stages in their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.92 | $916.80 | $3,968.80 | $47,614.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.55 | $1,182.00 | $5,130.00 | $61,464.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.09 | $1,523.60 | $6,582.67 | $78,872.80 |
Do Sous Chefs in Boise Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes, focusing on kitchen management and food preparation. Their compensation is usually salary-based without additional tipping income.
Sous Chef Salary in Boise vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $29.55 per hour and $61,464 annually, which aligns exactly with the average pay in Boise.
This parity suggests Boise offers competitive salaries for Sous Chefs compared to the overall United States market, reflecting a balanced local culinary job market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boise for Sous Chefs
If you're open to working in surrounding areas, some nearby cities offer higher wages for Sous Chefs:
- Meridian: $32.27 per hour
- Eagle: $32.02 per hour
These locations provide opportunities for Sous Chefs seeking to maximize their earnings close to Boise.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Boise?
A variety of factors can impact the earnings of a Sous Chef in Boise:
- Experience and Skill Level: More seasoned Sous Chefs with refined culinary skills and leadership experience typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and fine dining venues often pay more compared to casual or fast-casual establishments.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees, professional training, and certifications like ServSafe can enhance salary potential.
- Responsibilities and Job Scope: Sous Chefs handling large kitchens or multiple teams may receive higher compensation.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Boise's growing food scene and living costs influence wages accordingly.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Boise
Becoming a successful Sous Chef involves a combination of education, experience, and certification:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the McCall College Culinary Program offer hands-on training and certifications in Food Service and Culinary Arts, combining practical classes with real-world apprenticeships.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Certification is essential to ensure knowledge of proper food handling and kitchen safety standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working under experienced chefs and gaining exposure in various kitchen environments is crucial to rising through culinary ranks.
- Develop Soft Skills: Leadership, teamwork, time management, and communication are vital for Sous Chefs managing kitchen staff.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Boise
Boise features a vibrant culinary market with notable employers currently hiring Sous Chefs including:
- Barbacoa
- The Fork
- Bittercreek Alehouse
- State & Lemp
- Chandler's Steakhouse
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Boise Work At
Sous Chefs in Boise are commonly employed in various settings such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues tend to offer the highest salaries due to demand for precision and culinary excellence.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive pay and benefits given the scale and quality expectations.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These might pay less but can offer steady work and opportunity to develop culinary skills.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Salary varies based on seasonal demand and event size.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the earning potential and career growth for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boise for Sous Chefs
If you're considering roles similar to Sous Chef, the hospitality industry in Boise offers related careers that may interest you.
These include roles such as Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Chef, each involving different culinary responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Boise
Understanding the legal and tax environment is crucial for Sous Chefs working in Boise.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor laws and employment standards.
- For local regulations, the Idaho Department of Labor provides state-specific information regarding wages, workplace safety, and tax obligations.