Sous Chef Salary in Camden, NJ
Sous Chefs in Camden, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $26.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,040.00 per week, $4,506.67 per month, and $54,080.00 per year.
The job demand for Sous Chefs in Camden is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating positive prospects in the culinary field within the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Camden, NJ?
Sous Chef salaries in Camden vary based on experience, skill level, and establishment type. Below is a breakdown of income by career stage.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,506.67 | $54,080.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.00 | $1,160.00 | $5,006.67 | $60,320.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Camden Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their responsibilities are mainly centered around kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Therefore, any income from tips is minimal or nonexistent in most cases.
Sous Chef Salary in Camden vs. National Average
The average hourly wage for Sous Chefs nationally is around $25.00, with an annual average of about $52,000.00.
In comparison, Sous Chefs in Camden earn slightly more, at approximately $26.00 per hour and $54,080.00 annually, likely reflecting regional cost of living and culinary market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Camden for Sous Chefs
Nearby districts offer competitive salaries for Sous Chefs:
- Waterfront South: $28.00 per hour
- Downtown Camden: $27.50 per hour
These areas may present opportunities for Sous Chefs seeking higher-than-average earnings close to Camden.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Camden?
Several factors can influence the earnings of a Sous Chef in Camden, such as:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs or those with specific skills in cuisines or kitchen leadership command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or hotels generally pay more than casual or fast-casual dining spots.
- Size and Reputation of the Employer: Well-known establishments with larger clientele often provide better compensation packages.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications boost credibility and salary potential.
- Work Schedule: Hours worked during peak times or holidays might come with premium pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Camden
To pursue a role as a Sous Chef in Camden, consider these paths:
- Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Camden County College Culinary Arts Program or the Rutgers University Food Science Program for foundational training.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtain ServSafe Certification to ensure compliance with health standards, a crucial requirement for kitchen roles.
- Professional Certification: Aim for credentials such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) offered by the American Culinary Federation to stand out.
- Practical Experience: Start working in kitchens to gain hands-on experience and develop leadership abilities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Camden
Some notable Camden employers frequently hiring Sous Chefs include:
- Aramark
- The Victor Restaurant
- Blue Plate Kitchen
- Harleigh Restaurant
- Little Fish Coffee
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Camden Work At
Sous Chefs find employment across diverse types of culinary establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide the highest salaries due to elevated service levels and complex menus.
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Offer stable employment but typically with moderate pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer higher salaries and benefits alongside a dynamic work environment.
- Catering Companies: Depending on scale, can provide varying compensation aligned with event demands.
The establishment type strongly impacts salary prospects, with upscale venues generally rewarding Sous Chefs more generously.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Camden for Sous Chefs
If you're interested in alternative careers connected to the role of Sous Chef, consider exploring these related hospitality professions:
These include Chef de Cuisine, Commis Chef, and Executive Chef, which are closely related culinary leadership roles with their own salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Camden
Understanding labor laws and taxation is essential for Sous Chefs working in Camden.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive federal employment guidelines.
- The New Jersey state website for labor laws and employment information offers localized rules and protections.
- For local resources, check the Camden city government website.