Sous Chef Salary in Cincinnati, OH
Sous Chefs in Cincinnati, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Cincinnati is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing job opportunities in the culinary field within the city.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Cincinnati, OH?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Cincinnati varies depending on experience and the specific establishment, but below is an overview of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Cincinnati Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on kitchen management, food preparation, and assisting the Head Chef, rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is usually limited to their salary or hourly wage.
Sous Chef Salary in Cincinnati vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Cincinnati earn a slightly lower hourly wage at about $13.90 per hour and an annual salary of approximately $28,912. This can be influenced by the local cost of living and demand in the Cincinnati area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cincinnati for Sous Chefs
If you explore neighborhoods close to Cincinnati, pay rates for Sous Chefs can vary:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Over-the-Rhine: $17.60 per hour
The Over-the-Rhine area offers the highest pay for Sous Chefs near Cincinnati, reflecting its vibrant dining scene and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Cincinnati?
Several key factors impact the salary of a Sous Chef in Cincinnati:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary skills or leadership ability tend to receive higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and high-end hotels often pay more than casual dining or fast casual places.
- Certifications and Education: Having culinary degrees or certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can increase salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might come with shift premiums or overtime pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Cincinnati's moderate living costs influence wages relative to national averages.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Cincinnati
Becoming a Sous Chef in Cincinnati involves several important steps and considerations:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Cincinnati State Technical and Community College Culinary Arts Program offer an Associate of Applied Science degree, providing comprehensive training to aspiring chefs.
- Attend The Midwest Culinary Institute at Cincinnati State: This institute provides hands-on culinary education with modern facilities and seasoned instructors.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of critical food safety practices, while the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential demonstrates professional competency.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Working as a line cook or commis chef can provide essential kitchen experience before moving up to Sous Chef roles.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Cincinnati
Several notable employers in Cincinnati regularly seek qualified Sous Chefs:
- Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment
- Boca Restaurant Group
- The Phoenix
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Cincinnati Work At
Sous Chefs typically work across various types of foodservice establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often provide higher salaries reflecting the skill and precision required.
- Casual Dining: Offers moderate salaries and valuable management experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large kitchens with diverse menus may offer competitive pay and benefits.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: These can provide steady work but often with lower compensation.
The type of establishment directly influences earning potential and kitchen responsibilities for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cincinnati for Sous Chefs
If you're interested in careers related to Sous Chef roles, consider exploring similar positions within the culinary and hospitality fields.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Cincinnati
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Sous Chefs working in Cincinnati.
- For nationwide labor laws and employment information visit the Federal Department of Labor website.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers valuable data on employment statistics and occupational outlooks.
- Specific state labor regulations and resources for Ohio can be found on the Ohio state government website.