Sous Chef Salary in Cary, NC
Sous Chefs in Cary, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $27.09 per hour, which equates to about $1,083.60 per week, $4,695.60 per month, and $56,347.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Cary is growing at a promising rate of about 10% per year, indicating an expansion in culinary opportunities and kitchen leadership roles in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Cary, NC, varies primarily based on experience and workplace, but the following table illustrates typical earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.32 | $852.80 | $3,695.47 | $44,345.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.09 | $1,083.60 | $4,695.60 | $56,347.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.42 | $1,376.80 | $5,942.93 | $71,393.60 |
Do Sous Chefs in Cary Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income is mainly based on their salary or hourly wage.
Sous Chef Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of approximately $27.09 per hour, which equals about $56,347.20 per year.
The salary for Sous Chefs in Cary directly matches the national average, providing competitive compensation compared to other regions across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Sous Chefs
Sous Chefs working in neighboring areas of Cary may see slight variations in pay:
- Morrisville: $27.81 per hour
- Raleigh: $26.92 per hour
Morrisville offers the highest hourly pay nearby, while Raleigh presents slightly lower but still competitive rates for Sous Chefs.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Cary?
Several factors can affect the earning potential of a Sous Chef in Cary:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs with refined culinary skills and leadership abilities tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries differ widely between fine dining restaurants, hotels, caterers, and casual dining venues, with upscale restaurants often paying more.
- Certifications and Education: Professional culinary certifications and formal training can enhance salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evenings, weekends, or extended shifts might come with additional pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Cary’s economic climate and demand for culinary professionals influences salary levels.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Cary
Pursuing a career as a Sous Chef in Cary involves key educational and professional steps:
- Complete a Culinary Arts Program: Enrolling in programs like the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program provides vital hands-on training and theoretical knowledge critical for this role.
- Consider Comprehensive Culinary Education: The Chef's Academy at Raleigh-Durham offers a curriculum focused on classical techniques and current culinary trends, preparing students for leadership kitchen roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is widely recognized and often required for kitchen supervisory positions.
- Earn Professional Sous Chef Certification: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates skills and enhances career opportunities.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a line cook or kitchen assistant and progressively taking on more responsibility helps build the necessary expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Cary
Several leading companies in Cary actively seek skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- Compass Group
- Morrison Living
- Eurest
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Cary Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment across various types of food service establishments in Cary including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments generally offer higher pay reflecting the complexity and quality of cuisine.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide consistent work with benefits and competitive salaries.
- Catering Companies: May offer variable pay depending on event types and frequency.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: While opportunities are abundant, salaries tend to be more moderate.
The nature and prestige of the establishment significantly influence the salary and career advancement possibilities for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Sous Chefs
Those interested in similar culinary and hospitality roles may consider these related careers:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, which involve related culinary leadership responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Cary
Sous Chefs in Cary should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their employment rights.