Sous Chef Salary in Dayton, OH
Sous Chefs in Dayton, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $24.67 per hour, which translates to about $986.80 per week, $4,276.13 per month, and $51,313.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Dayton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Dayton, OH?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Dayton varies depending on experience and employer, but the following table outlines typical earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.23 | $769.20 | $3,314.40 | $39,772.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,153.87 | $49,963.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.54 | $1,261.60 | $5,442.93 | $65,563.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Dayton Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their earnings are primarily based on wages or salary rather than gratuities received from customers.
Sous Chef Salary in Dayton vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn about $28.57 per hour and approximately $59,425.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Dayton earn a lower hourly rate and average salary, reflecting regional differences in cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Dayton for Sous Chefs
Sous Chefs working in areas near Dayton may find slightly higher pay, such as:
- Downtown Dayton: $25.50 per hour
- Oregon District: $26.00 per hour
These locations offer competitive wages that surpass the average for Dayton as a whole, potentially due to their bustling dining scenes.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Dayton?
Several factors affect how much a Sous Chef can earn in Dayton:
- Experience and Expertise: More years working in professional kitchens typically lead to higher wages.
- Skill Set: Proficiency in kitchen management, recipe development, and food safety often commands better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often pay more than casual dining venues.
- Location: Work in higher-demand districts or specialty culinary areas can result in higher salary offers.
- Certifications: Possessing certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Dayton
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Dayton, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Sinclair Community College for essential skills and knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Participate in the Culinary Apprenticeship Program at Miami Valley Career Technology Center, combining classroom learning with on-the-job training.
- Earn Certifications: Obtain the ServSafe Certification to demonstrate food safety competence, and consider the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential for professional recognition.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Since the Sous Chef often assists with kitchen management, strong leadership and communication abilities are key.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Dayton
Several well-known establishments in Dayton currently hire Sous Chefs, including:
- The Pine Club
- Salvatore’s Italian Garden
- Wheat Penny Oven & Bar
- Dublin Pub
- The Oregon District Tavern
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Dayton Work At
Sous Chefs typically work across various establishments, each influencing salary potential:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues offer higher compensation due to complex menus and expectations for culinary excellence.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger kitchen operations with a range of offerings often pay competitive salaries to maintain quality.
- Catering Companies: Work can be seasonal but may provide lucrative pay during events.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Salaries may be lower here, reflecting the quicker service model and lower price points.
Choosing where to work as a Sous Chef can significantly impact income, career growth, and skill development.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Dayton for Sous Chefs
If you are exploring culinary career paths related to the Sous Chef role, consider these alternatives:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, which involve similar responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Dayton
Sous Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax requirements to ensure correct work conditions and payroll compliance.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for national employment standards.
- For local Ohio employment information, check the State of Ohio's Department of Job and Family Services website.
- The City of Dayton's official website provides city-specific labor and tax details.