Sous Chef Salary in Edison, NJ
Sous Chefs in Edison, NJ, in 2026, earn approximately $31.01 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.40 per week, $5,375.07 per month, and $64,500.80 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Edison is growing steadily at about 10% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals seeking advancing opportunities in this vibrant food service market.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Edison, NJ?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Edison varies by experience, skill set, and employer, typically reflecting their critical role in kitchen operations.
| 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) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,066.67 | $72,800.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Edison Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work primarily involves behind-the-scenes kitchen management and food preparation. Their compensation is mostly centered on hourly wages or salaried pay without tip income.
Sous Chef Salary in Edison vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs make an average of about $25.00 per hour and approximately $52,000 per year.
Comparatively, Sous Chefs in Edison earn notably higher wages with an average hourly rate of $31.01 and yearly income of $64,500.80.
This premium reflects the higher cost of living in New Jersey and the competitive culinary environment that demands experienced Sous Chefs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Edison for Sous Chefs
Nearby cities with strong culinary markets offer competitive salaries for Sous Chefs:
- Westfield: $25.37 per hour
- Princeton: $25.21 per hour
While these locations offer respectable pay, Edison remains an attractive hub for culinary professionals seeking lucrative positions.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Edison?
Several factors affect the earnings of a Sous Chef in Edison:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with refined skills in diverse cuisines earn the top salaries.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often pay more than casual dining spots or fast casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials like Certified Sous Chef (CSC) or ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification can boost salary potential.
- Kitchen Size and Responsibility: Sous Chefs managing larger teams or specialized kitchens command higher pay.
- Local Market Demand: Edison's growing food scene increases competition and salaries.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Edison
Becoming a Sous Chef involves a blend of education, experience, and professional certification.
Consider programs such as the Middlesex County College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management preparing candidates for roles like Sous Chef.
Alternatively, the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) New York Campus provides intensive culinary arts education with real-world experience and industry networking.
Certifications enhance credibility, including the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) from the American Culinary Federation and the widely recognized ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification.
Hands-on experience in kitchens, progressive responsibility, and networking within the culinary community are crucial for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Edison
Some notable employers in Edison seeking skilled Sous Chefs include:
- Topgolf
- Seasons 52
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Edison Work At
Sous Chefs in Edison typically find roles across varied types of food service establishments including:
- Fine dining and upscale restaurants: Often provide the highest salaries due to complex menus and quality standards.
- Casual and fast casual restaurants: May offer lower wages but provide a fast-paced learning environment.
- Hotels and resorts: Generally pay competitive salaries and may offer benefits.
- Catering companies: Diverse work but with fluctuating demand and wages.
The type of establishment greatly impacts compensation, with higher-end venues paying substantially more to attract talented Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Edison for Sous Chefs
If you're exploring careers related to Sous Chef, consider these similar hospitality roles:
These roles include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager, all of which share culinary and leadership responsibilities overlapping with that of the Sous Chef.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Edison
Sous Chefs should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor laws to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive employment and labor regulations.
- Check the State of New Jersey's official website for local labor laws, wage information, and tax regulations affecting workers in Edison.