Sous Chef Salary in Durham, NC
Sous Chefs in Durham, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $26.72 per hour, which translates to about $1,068.80 per week, $4,631.47 per month, and $55,577.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Durham is showing a positive trend, with a growth rate of 9.4% per year, indicating expanding opportunities in the culinary field locally.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Durham varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.72 | $1,068.80 | $4,631.47 | $55,577.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.02 | $1,400.80 | $6,072.53 | $72,841.60 |
Do Sous Chefs in Durham Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their responsibilities are mostly kitchen-focused and behind the scenes. Their compensation usually comes from a salaried or hourly wage rather than tipping.
Sous Chef Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $27.86 per hour, which comes to approximately $57,948.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Durham earn slightly less at around $26.72 per hour and $55,577.60 annually. This difference may reflect local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher pay rates for Sous Chefs, including:
- Downtown Durham: $28.00 per hour
- Research Triangle Park: $30.00 per hour
Commuting to these areas may provide opportunities for higher earnings compared to Durham proper.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Durham?
Several factors affect how much a Sous Chef can earn in Durham:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with diverse cooking techniques and management experience tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or fine dining establishments generally pays more than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Leadership and Management Ability: Sous Chefs who can effectively manage kitchen staff and operations often earn better salaries.
- Special Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe can increase employability and salary.
- Local Economic Factors: Durham’s cost of living and demand for culinary professionals influence pay rates.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Durham
Becoming a successful Sous Chef in Durham often involves several key educational and experiential steps:
- Formal Culinary Training: Pursuing programs like the Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts at Durham Technical Community College provides essential skills and experience.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining certifications such as ServSafe is commonly required and shows commitment to food safety standards.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Starting in roles such as line cook or prep cook helps build foundational kitchen skills critical for advancement.
These pathways help develop the knowledge and abilities needed for a Sous Chef role, including culinary technique, safety, and management.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Durham
Some of the well-known employers in Durham that regularly seek skilled Sous Chefs include:
- Uncle Julio's
- Sheraton
- KoKyu
- Unscripted Durham
- Proof of the Pudding
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Durham Work At
Sous Chefs can work in a variety of culinary settings, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest pay due to complexity and quality of cuisine.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide opportunities for larger-scale kitchen management and diverse menu offerings.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer fewer hours and lower pay but help build varied experience.
- Catering Companies and Banquet Halls: Often require flexibility and strong organizational skills.
The choice of establishment influences factors like salary, hours, and advancement opportunities for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Sous Chefs
If you are considering related roles in the hospitality and culinary fields, here are some similar careers to consider:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager—positions requiring advanced culinary skills and management capabilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Durham
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Sous Chefs working in Durham.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details on North Carolina state-specific labor laws and resources are available at the official North Carolina government website.