Sous Chef Salary in Des Moines, IA
Sous Chefs in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $26.87 per hour, which translates to about $1,074.80 per week, $4,657.47 per month, and $55,889.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Des Moines is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in this role.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Des Moines varies by experience level, with pay increasing as skills and expertise improve.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.06 | $922.40 | $3,985.07 | $47,884.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.87 | $1,074.80 | $4,657.47 | $55,889.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.30 | $1,252.00 | $5,423.33 | $65,104.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer interaction.
Sous Chef Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $27.88 per hour, which translates to approximately $57,990.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Des Moines earn slightly less hourly ($26.87 vs. $27.88) and annually ($55,889.60 vs. $57,990.40), reflecting regional cost of living and market differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Sous Chef
Nearby areas offer some salary variation for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Des Moines: $27.50 per hour
- West Des Moines: $26.00 per hour
Downtown Des Moines pays a bit more than West Des Moines, with both being competitive options for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several factors affect a Sous Chef’s salary in Des Moines, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs command higher salaries due to their refined culinary and leadership skills.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels typically pay more than casual or fast-casual settings.
- Educational Background: Formal culinary education and certifications can increase earning potential.
- Responsibility and Role Scope: Sous Chefs who oversee larger teams and complex kitchens tend to earn higher wages.
- Local Market Demand: Increasing demand for skilled chefs can positively influence salaries.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Des Moines
There are a few key steps to preparing for a career as a Sous Chef in Des Moines:
- Education: Pursue programs like the Iowa Culinary Institute in Ankeny, IA, offering comprehensive culinary arts training, or the Des Moines Area Community College Culinary Arts Program for hands-on skills.
- Certifications: Obtain vital certifications such as the ServSafe Certification for food safety and the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate expertise.
- Gain Experience: Work in kitchens to develop culinary skills and gain leadership experience, often starting as line cooks or kitchen assistants.
- Networking: Connect with culinary professionals and local culinary organizations to open career opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Des Moines
Several establishments in Des Moines actively hire Sous Chefs, including:
- Proudfoot & Bird
- Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano
- Gateway Market & Cafe
- Eurest
- Grand Living
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Des Moines Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment in a variety of settings including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: High-end restaurants often offer the best salaries and opportunities for growth.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments providing catering and banquet services can offer competitive pay.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments generally offer lower salaries but may provide entry-level opportunities.
- Catering Companies: These may offer diverse experiences and variable pay depending on event size.
The type of establishment directly impacts the salary, with more prestigious venues often paying higher wages due to increased responsibilities and skill requirements.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Sous Chefs
For professionals interested in careers related to the Sous Chef role, consider the following related positions:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager roles, which share complementary skill sets and career paths within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Des Moines
It is important for Sous Chefs to understand the labor laws and tax requirements that affect their employment:
- Visit the Iowa official website for comprehensive information on state labor regulations, wage laws, and employment resources.
- Access federal labor standards and wage guidelines on the U.S. Department of Labor website.