Sous Chef Salary in Cambridge, MA
Sous Chefs in Cambridge, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $32.12 per hour, which translates to about $1,284.80 per week, $5,567.47 per month, and $66,809.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Cambridge is looking up with a healthy growth rate of about 6% per year, indicating promising opportunities in the culinary sector for this role.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Cambridge, MA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Cambridge depends on experience and the type of employer. Below is an outline of expected salary ranges from entry level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.34 | $1,053.60 | $4,546.40 | $54,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $32.12 | $1,284.80 | $5,567.47 | $66,809.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.22 | $1,568.80 | $6,794.67 | $81,537.60 |
Do Sous Chefs in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily kitchen-based and does not involve direct customer interaction. Their earnings are mostly derived from their base salary.
Sous Chef Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn on average around $30 per hour, which amounts to approximately $62,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Cambridge earn a bit more, with an hourly rate of $32.12 and an annual salary of about $66,809.60, reflecting regional cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Sous Chefs include:
- Harvard Square: $35 per hour
- Kendall Square: $34.50 per hour
Working in these areas can offer Sous Chefs in Cambridge increased earning potential and additional career opportunities.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several key factors impact the earnings of a Sous Chef in Cambridge:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs with strong culinary skills command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or prestigious hotels often offers better pay than casual dining spots.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications can boost credibility and salary potential.
- Responsibility Level: The scope of duties, including kitchen management and staff supervision, affects compensation.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Cambridge’s higher cost of living can drive salaries upward compared to other regions.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Cambridge
Becoming a Sous Chef in Cambridge typically involves the following steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Enroll in culinary programs such as the Professional Chef's Program at Cambridge School of Culinary Arts or the Culinary Arts Program at Boston University Metropolitan College.
- Obtain Certifications: Earn certifications like ServSafe for food safety and the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation.
- Acquire Experience: Work your way up from line cook or commis chef positions in kitchens to gain practical skills and leadership ability.
- Build a Professional Network: Connecting with culinary professionals and exploring local hospitality opportunities can greatly enhance job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Cambridge
The following employers in Cambridge frequently look to hire experienced Sous Chefs:
- Compass Group
- Harvard University
- Bon Appétit
- Harvest
- Oleana
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Cambridge Work At
Sous Chefs in Cambridge typically work in a variety of culinary venues, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer higher wages due to the demand for quality and presentation skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger kitchens with diverse menus may provide more stable and lucrative pay.
- Cafés and Casual Dining: These establishments often pay less but provide valuable kitchen experience.
- Corporate and Institutional Kitchens: Universities and large corporations like Harvard University can be employers offering competitive wages and benefits.
The type and prestige of the establishment strongly influence the salary a Sous Chef can expect to earn.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Sous Chefs
If you're exploring similar hospitality roles to a Sous Chef, consider the following careers:
These positions include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, and each involves overlapping skills and responsibilities within culinary and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Cambridge
As a Sous Chef working in Cambridge, it's essential to be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that apply to your employment.
- You can find information on Massachusetts labor laws on the official Massachusetts government website, covering minimum wage, overtime, and workplace rights.
- For federal labor standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's website, which provides comprehensive workplace and tax resources.