Sous Chef Salary in Davenport, IA
Sous Chefs in Davenport, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $24.04 per hour, which translates to about $961.60 per week, $4,166.93 per month, and $50,003.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Davenport is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating expanding opportunities and an increasing need for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Davenport, IA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Davenport depends on experience and workplace, but the range below gives a general idea across levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,166.93 | $50,003.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.81 | $1,192.40 | $5,152.33 | $61,964.80 |
Do Sous Chefs in Davenport Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily kitchen-based and not customer-facing. Their compensation is mainly from salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Davenport vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn on average around $24.04 per hour, or about $50,003.20 per year.
In Davenport, IA, the salary figures closely align with the national averages, offering competitive wages for Sous Chefs relative to the rest of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Davenport for Sous Chefs
Nearby regions with higher pay rates for Sous Chefs include:
- Downtown Davenport: $25.50 per hour
- East Davenport: $26.00 per hour
These areas provide opportunities for Sous Chefs looking to maximize their earnings through location choice.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Davenport?
A variety of factors can affect how much a Sous Chef earns in Davenport:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs command higher salaries due to refined culinary skills and leadership capabilities.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or catering companies often pay more than casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized cooking skills and food safety certifications add value to a Sous Chef’s profile.
- Location: Proximity to urban or upscale areas often correlates with better pay.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night or holiday shifts might come with additional compensation.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Davenport
Becoming a successful Sous Chef in Davenport involves several steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Programs such as Culinary Arts at Scott Community College provide essential hands-on training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is vital for maintaining safe food handling practices and is widely recognized in the industry.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles or as a line cook to develop your skills and advance to supervisory positions.
- Continue Learning and Networking: Stay updated on culinary trends and build relationships within the local hospitality community.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Davenport
Leading employers seeking Sous Chefs in Davenport include:
- Marriott International
- Eurest
- Morrison Healthcare
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Davenport Work At
Sous Chefs in Davenport typically find roles in diverse establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These restaurants tend to offer higher salaries due to the complexity and quality of cuisine prepared.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hotel kitchens provide opportunities for career growth and higher compensation.
- Catering Companies: Catering requires versatile skills and can be both challenging and rewarding.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: While pay is often lower, these establishments offer more entry-level openings and steady work.
The type of establishment usually influences the salary range and work environment for a Sous Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Davenport for Sous Chefs
If you're interested in careers related to the Sous Chef role, consider these options:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager positions, which share many responsibilities and skills with Sous Chefs.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Davenport
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Sous Chefs to protect their rights and manage finances.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for detailed information on labor laws and regulations.
- Check the Iowa Workforce Development site for state-specific employment resources and labor laws.