Sous Chef Salary in El Paso, TX
Sous Chefs in El Paso, TX, in 2026, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The job market for Sous Chefs in El Paso is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing demand for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in El Paso, TX?
The salary of a Sous Chef in El Paso varies based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in El Paso Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is mainly through salary or hourly wages without additional tipping income.
Sous Chef Salary in El Paso vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $20.00 per hour, or about $41,600.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in El Paso earn slightly less, at $18.00 per hour and $37,440.00 annually. This difference can be influenced by cost of living and local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near El Paso for Sous Chefs
In the surrounding areas near El Paso, pay rates for Sous Chefs vary slightly:
- Downtown: $19.00 per hour
- Westside: $18.50 per hour
Suburban and downtown locations may offer higher salaries due to varying clientele and restaurant prestige.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in El Paso?
Several factors contribute to the salary level of a Sous Chef in El Paso:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often pay more than casual dining venues.
- Certification and Education: Culinary degrees and certifications can improve earning potential.
- Kitchen Size and Responsibilities: Larger kitchens with more staff increase responsibilities and compensation.
- Local Economic Conditions: Regional demand and cost of living impact pay scales.
How To Become a Sous Chef in El Paso
Preparing for a Sous Chef role in El Paso involves a mix of education, experience, and certification:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the El Paso Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive instruction in culinary techniques and kitchen management, preparing students for roles like Sous Chef.
- Consider Hospitality Education: The University of Texas at El Paso Hospitality Management Program provides valuable knowledge in restaurant operations and management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of essential food safety practices often required in kitchens.
- Earn Professional Recognition: Certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation validate professional competence.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in El Paso
Several renowned establishments in El Paso are known for hiring talented Sous Chefs:
- Café Central
- Anson11 Restaurant
- The Hoppy Monk
Establishments That Sous Chefs in El Paso Work At
Sous Chefs typically work in a variety of culinary settings including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These generally offer higher salaries due to the level of skill and presentation required.
- Casual Dining Venues: Pay may be moderate, but these provide valuable experience to advance.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive wages along with benefits.
- Catering Companies: Work can be seasonal but may vary in pay depending on event size.
The type of establishment greatly affects a Sous Chef’s salary, with upscale and high-volume kitchens offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in El Paso for Sous Chefs
If you're considering related careers in the culinary field, here are a few options with similar skills and salary profiles:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in El Paso
Sous Chefs should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor regulations to ensure their rights and compliance:
- Detailed information on Texas labor laws is available on the Texas government website.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor's official site is a vital resource.