Sous Chef Salary in Cleveland, OH
Sous Chefs in Cleveland, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $26.05 per hour, which translates to about $1,042.00 per week, $4,515.33 per month, and $54,184.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Cleveland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook in this culinary leadership role in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Cleveland, OH?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Cleveland varies with experience and venue, but here we outline typical earnings from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.70 | $788.00 | $3,411.33 | $40,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.05 | $1,042.00 | $4,497.67 | $54,056.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.45 | $1,378.00 | $5,960.67 | $71,456.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Cleveland, OH Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips directly since their work is mostly behind the scenes supporting kitchen operations. Their compensation primarily comes from their salary rather than tips.
Sous Chef Salary in Cleveland, OH vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $25.00 per hour, equating to roughly $52,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Cleveland earn slightly more hourly and boast an annual salary above the national figure, reflecting the city's competitive culinary market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cleveland, OH for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Sous Chefs, such as:
- Downtown Cleveland: $27.50 per hour
- Westlake: $30.50 per hour
Westlake leads with the highest hourly pay for Sous Chefs, providing enticing opportunities close to Cleveland.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Cleveland, OH?
Several factors influence a Sous Chef's salary in Cleveland:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experience and specialized culinary talents increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts often yields higher salaries.
- Management Responsibilities: Positions involving kitchen management or staff supervision tend to pay more.
- Certifications: Culinary certifications can enhance credibility and salary.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Unusual or peak hours sometimes offer higher pay rates.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Cleveland, OH
Becoming a Sous Chef in Cleveland involves gaining both education and practical experience, including:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Program at Cuyahoga Community College, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety, preparing students for professional kitchen roles.
- Consider Hospitality Management Program at Cleveland State University for education in hospitality operations and culinary management, emphasizing leadership and business skills.
- Obtain certifications like ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, which ensures knowledge in food safety, often required for kitchen management positions.
- Earn the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate culinary skills and management abilities, improving career prospects.
- Gain hands-on experience in kitchens, starting as a Line Cook or Commis Chef and working upward.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Cleveland, OH
Prominent local establishments seeking skilled Sous Chefs include:
- Luca Restaurant
- The Greenhouse Tavern
- Mabel's BBQ
- Blue Point Grille
- Urban Farmer Cleveland
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Cleveland, OH Work At
Sous Chefs commonly work at various types of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to prestige and complex culinary demands.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Casual Dining and Bistros: These provide valuable experience but may offer moderate wages compared to fine dining.
- Catering Services and Private Clubs: Can offer unique challenges and pay scales depending on clientele.
The nature and scale of the establishment greatly impact salary, with prestigious settings generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cleveland, OH for Sous Chefs
Individuals interested in related careers to Sous Chef might consider roles such as Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, or Kitchen Manager, which share culinary leadership responsibilities and vary in pay and scope.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Cleveland, OH
Understanding relevant labor laws and taxes is crucial for Sous Chefs to ensure compliance and proper employment conditions.
- Consult the federal Department of Labor website for information on labor laws and employment standards.
- Visit the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services for state-specific employment resources.
- Review the City of Cleveland's official site for local regulations and business-related information.