Sous Chef Salary in Corona, CA
Sous Chefs in Corona, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $32.71 per hour, which translates to about $1,308.40 per week, $5,669.73 per month, and $68,036.80 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Corona is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Corona, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Corona varies based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Here's a breakdown across different experience levels to give you an idea of potential earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $30.41 | $1,216.40 | $5,255.47 | $63,176.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $32.71 | $1,308.40 | $5,669.73 | $68,036.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.19 | $1,407.60 | $6,047.20 | $72,595.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Corona Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their earnings primarily come from their salary or hourly wage rather than from customer gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Corona vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $31.25 per hour, which is about $65,000 per year.
Comparatively, Sous Chefs in Corona earn a slightly higher hourly rate of $32.71 and an annual salary of $68,036.80, reflecting the local market demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Corona for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Corona: $34.00 per hour
- South Corona: $33.50 per hour
These neighborhoods offer competitive wages that are higher than the general average in Corona, potentially attracting talent to these locations.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Corona?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Sous Chef in Corona, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary skills and leadership abilities tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels usually commands higher pay compared to casual dining or fast casual kitchens.
- Level of Responsibility: Sous Chefs who take on additional managerial duties, such as inventory management or training staff, often see increased compensation.
- Certifications and Education: Having recognized culinary certifications or formal education can boost employability and salary.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with a vibrant food scene or higher living costs may offer better salaries to attract and retain talent.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Corona
Becoming a Sous Chef in Corona involves several steps and considerations:
- Gain Culinary Education: Programs such as the Riverside City College Culinary Arts Program or San Bernardino Valley College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training including hands-on experience in kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification are often required for leadership roles in kitchens to ensure food safety compliance.
- Earn Professional Certification: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification offered by the American Culinary Federation highlights a Sous Chef's skills and experience, enhancing career prospects.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start as a line cook or in other entry-level kitchen roles to build fundamental culinary skills before progressing to Sous Chef positions.
- Develop Leadership Skills: The role requires overseeing kitchen teams, managing schedules, and ensuring quality, so honing management abilities is critical.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Corona
Some of the top employers currently hiring Sous Chefs in Corona include:
- Monster Energy
- Compass Group
- Eurest
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Corona Work At
Sous Chefs in Corona typically work across a range of food service establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often offer the highest wages due to the skill level and presentation standards required.
- Casual Dining and Fast Casual: These settings may offer steady work and benefits but generally lower salaries compared to fine dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations may provide better pay and opportunities for career advancement.
- Catering and Banquet Services: Variable pay based on event size but valuable experience managing large-scale food preparation.
The type of establishment strongly influences a Sous Chef’s salary, benefits, and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Corona for Sous Chefs
If you’re considering roles related to being a Sous Chef, several similar positions may interest you:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, roles that offer alternative career paths within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Corona
Sous Chefs should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations applicable in California and at the federal level.
- For detailed information on state labor laws including minimum wage, overtime, and workplace regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) offers comprehensive federal labor statistics and information.