Sous Chef Salary in Clarksville, TN
Sous Chefs in Clarksville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $22.88 per hour, which translates to about $915.20 per week, $3,965.87 per month, and $47,590.40 per year.
The job market for Sous Chefs is showing positive growth at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for culinary professionals who can assist in kitchen management and food preparation in the Clarksville area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Clarksville, TN?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Clarksville can vary based on experience, skills, and employer type. Below is a breakdown of pay levels based on experience:
| 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) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,493.33 | $53,920.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Clarksville Earn Tips?
Typically, Sous Chefs do not earn tips directly as their role focuses on kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation primarily comes from their salary or wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Clarksville vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of approximately $25.00 per hour, translating to about $52,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Clarksville earn slightly less, with an average of $22.88 per hour and $47,590.40 annually. This difference likely reflects local cost of living and market dynamics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clarksville for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown: $24.00 per hour
- Sango: $25.00 per hour
Sous Chefs working in these areas may find slightly better compensation compared to Clarksville's average.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Clarksville?
Several important factors impact how much a Sous Chef can earn in Clarksville:
- Experience and Culinary Skillset: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced cooking techniques typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often pays more than casual dining or fast-casual kitchens.
- Leadership Abilities: Those who demonstrate strong kitchen management and team supervision skills can advance to better-paying positions.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications and formal training can enhance earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Sous Chefs working evenings, weekends, or holidays might receive higher pay rates.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Clarksville
Becoming a Sous Chef involves building culinary skills and gaining relevant experience. Here are some steps to consider:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Programs like the Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program, located about 50 miles from Clarksville, provide comprehensive culinary training through Associate degrees and technical certificates.
- Additional Training Opportunities: The University of Tennessee at Knoxville Culinary & Catering Program offers an intensive 12-week curriculum for aspiring culinary professionals.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Certification and Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can validate skills and professionalism.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Work as a Line Cook or Commis Chef to develop necessary cooking skills and familiarity with kitchen operations.
- Build Leadership Skills: Demonstrating ability to manage kitchen teams can open doors for Sous Chef roles.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Clarksville
Several restaurants and eateries in Clarksville actively seek skilled Sous Chefs:
- The Iron Fork
- Corky’s Ribs & BBQ
- BADD20 Bistro
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Clarksville Work At
Sous Chefs can find employment in a variety of culinary environments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often provide opportunities to learn a broad range of kitchen skills but may offer moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: The pace here is quick, requiring efficiency and multitasking; salaries may be lower but experience is valuable.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: These venues typically offer higher salaries and greater responsibility.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Sous Chefs may gain dynamic experience preparing for various events, impacting pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly affect salary levels due to different customer expectations and operational scopes.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clarksville for Sous Chefs
If you’re interested in careers similar to Sous Chef, here are a few related roles you might consider:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, which have overlapping culinary and management responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Clarksville
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Sous Chefs working in Clarksville, TN.
- State-specific employment laws, wage regulations, and employee rights can be found on the official Tennessee government website.
- For federal labor standards, minimum wage, overtime, and workplace protections, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.