Sous Chef Salary in Columbus, GA
Sous Chefs in Columbus, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $21.78 per hour, which translates to about $871.20 per week, $3,775.20 per month, and $45,302.40 per year.
The outlook for Sous Chef positions in Columbus is promising, with job demand expected to grow at a rate of around 6% per year. This positive growth indicates increasing opportunities in the culinary and hospitality sectors.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Columbus, GA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Columbus depends on experience and individual skill, with earnings varying across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.52 | $620.80 | $2,683.73 | $32,202.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.89 | $715.60 | $3,089.07 | $37,187.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.62 | $824.80 | $3,557.87 | $42,889.60 |
Do Sous Chefs in Columbus Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service.
Sous Chef Salary in Columbus vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $22.07 per hour, translating to approximately $45,905.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Columbus earn slightly less, with an hourly wage of $21.78 and an annual salary just below the national average at $45,302.40. Differences may be influenced by local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbus for Sous Chefs
Sous Chefs working in nearby areas can encounter varied pay rates:
- Downtown: $22.00 per hour
- Midtown: $21.50 per hour
Choosing to work in Downtown Columbus might offer slightly higher wages than Midtown, reflecting the concentration of upscale dining venues.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Columbus?
A variety of factors affect how much a Sous Chef can earn in Columbus:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs who excel in advanced culinary techniques can command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized skills and certifications, such as ServSafe and Certified Sous Chef (CSC), contribute significantly to earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to offer better pay compared to casual or fast casual dining venues.
- Management Responsibilities: Sous Chefs who take on leadership roles and kitchen management duties often receive higher wages.
- Location Within the City: Working in premium neighborhoods or popular dining districts can influence salary level.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Columbus
Becoming a Sous Chef in Columbus involves a combination of education, training, and experience:
- Gain Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Columbus Technical College provide solid groundwork in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Pursue Hospitality Education: The Hospitality Management Program at Columbus State University prepares candidates for leadership roles in the food service industry.
- Obtain Certifications: Food safety certifications such as ServSafe are essential, along with specialized credentials like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) offered by the American Culinary Federation.
- Build Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles and working up to Sous Chef positions allows accumulation of necessary skills and expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Columbus
Some of the notable employers looking for skilled Sous Chefs in Columbus include:
- The Loft
- Bitter & Twisted
- Live Well Restaurant & Bar
- Bob’s Smokehouse
- Homegrown
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Columbus Work At
Sous Chefs in Columbus typically find employment in various types of food service establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often pay higher salaries reflecting elevated culinary expectations and responsibilities.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These settings provide more entry-level opportunities but generally offer modest salaries compared to upscale establishments.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues tend to offer stable employment with potential for management advancement.
- Catering Services and Banquets: These jobs might offer variable pay dependent on event frequency and scale.
The level and prestige of the establishment can greatly impact a Sous Chef's earning potential and career trajectory.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbus for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in roles related to Sous Chef, consider exploring these similar careers available in Columbus:
These include Head Chef, Kitchen Manager, and Restaurant Manager positions, which often intersect in skills required and offer diverse salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Columbus
Being aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Sous Chefs to safeguard their rights and finances.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment laws for Georgia, including workforce development resources, can be found at the Georgia Department of Labor website.