Sous Chef Salary in Denver, CO
Sous Chefs in Denver, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $30.53 per hour, which translates to about $1,221.20 per week, $5,291.87 per month, and $63,502.40 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Denver is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary field.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Denver, CO?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Denver varies depending on experience and employer, with ranges reflecting different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.05 | $1,002.00 | $4,342.00 | $52,104.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.53 | $1,221.20 | $5,291.87 | $63,502.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.24 | $1,489.60 | $6,441.07 | $77,459.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Denver Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their primary role is focused on kitchen operations and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation primarily comes from salary or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Denver vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $30.53 per hour, translating to roughly $63,502.40 per year.
Sous Chefs in Denver earn at the national average hourly rate of $30.53 per hour and annual salary of $63,502.40. This parity suggests Denver provides a competitive wage aligned with the national culinary market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denver for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas to Denver offer varying pay rates for Sous Chefs, including:
- Downtown Denver: $32.00 per hour
- Cherry Creek: $33.50 per hour
These higher rates in Downtown Denver and Cherry Creek indicate opportunities for Sous Chefs seeking higher earnings in bustling culinary districts.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Denver?
Several factors impact the salary potential for a Sous Chef in Denver:
- Experience: More experienced Sous Chefs command higher salaries due to advanced cooking skills and management abilities.
- Establishment Type: Upscale restaurants and hotels generally offer higher pay than casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized culinary skills and certifications increase earning potential.
- Location: Working in high-end neighborhoods or busy culinary centers like Downtown Denver can lead to better compensation.
- Management Responsibilities: Sous Chefs with oversight duties or those acting as Kitchen Managers often earn more.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Denver
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Denver, aspiring cooks should consider these steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Enrolling in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Johnson & Wales University or the Cook Street School of Culinary Arts provides comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
- Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Certification is essential for kitchen safety knowledge, and the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation enhances credibility and career prospects.
- On-the-Job Experience: Starting as a Line Cook or Commis Chef and gaining kitchen experience helps build the skills required for a Sous Chef.
- Continuous Skill Development: Mastering classical cooking techniques and staying updated on culinary trends are important for career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Denver
Denver's restaurant scene includes several notable establishments actively seeking skilled Sous Chefs:
- Frasca Food and Wine
- Guard and Grace
- Mercantile Dining & Provision
- Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen
- The Wolf’s Tailor
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Denver Work At
Sous Chefs in Denver find employment across various establishments including casual dining, fast casual, hotels, and fine dining restaurants.
Higher-end restaurants and luxury hotels typically offer higher salaries for Sous Chefs due to elevated service standards and complex menu offerings.
Conversely, fast casual and casual dining establishments may offer lower base pay but could provide greater entry opportunities for new Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denver for Sous Chef
If you're exploring roles similar to Sous Chef, you might consider the following related careers which involve culinary skills and kitchen management:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Denver
Sous Chefs need to be informed about labor laws and taxation policies that affect their employment in Denver.
- For comprehensive information on federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor regulations can be accessed at the State of Colorado official site.
- Local employment laws and resources are available on the City and County of Denver's website.