Sous Chef Salary in Fairfield, CA
Sous Chefs in Fairfield, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $28.44 per hour, which translates to about $1,137.60 per week, $4,929.60 per month, and $59,155.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Fairfield is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job growth trajectory in the culinary field within the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Fairfield, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Fairfield varies based on experience and the employer, ranging from entry level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,154.93 | $49,900.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.44 | $1,137.60 | $4,929.60 | $59,155.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.84 | $1,313.60 | $5,682.13 | $68,307.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Fairfield Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Their compensation mainly comes from their base salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Fairfield vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $30.39 per hour, which translates to approximately $63,211.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Fairfield earn slightly less, with a typical hourly wage of $28.44 and an annual salary around $59,155.20.
The difference may be influenced by cost of living, local demand, and restaurant market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fairfield for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying compensation for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Fairfield: $29.50 per hour
- Cordelia: $30.00 per hour
Those commuting to Cordelia or Downtown Fairfield may find higher wages compared to the wider Fairfield area.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Fairfield?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Sous Chef in Fairfield:
- Experience and Expertise: More years and culinary skills often translate to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts usually offer better compensation than casual or fast casual venues.
- Certifications and Education: Professional culinary certifications can boost salary prospects.
- Performance and Responsibility Level: Sous Chefs with supervisory roles or specialty cuisine expertise often earn more.
- Local Market Demand: Competition for skilled culinary professionals can impact wages significantly.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Fairfield
To become a successful Sous Chef in Fairfield, consider these steps:
- Gain Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as the Solano Community College Culinary Arts Program located in Fairfield or the Napa Valley Cooking School in nearby St. Helena for comprehensive culinary arts education focused on hands-on experience.
- Obtain Key Certifications: Pursue certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) offered by the American Culinary Federation and the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification to validate skills and knowledge in food safety.
- Accumulate Practical Experience: Start in kitchen assistant roles and steadily build skills to qualify for Sous Chef positions.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Sous Chefs often manage teams and kitchen operations, so leadership ability is essential.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Fairfield
Prominent employers in Fairfield seeking qualified Sous Chefs include:
- Hilton Garden Inn Fairfield
- Jelly Belly Candy Company
- Anheuser-Busch Fairfield Brewery
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Fairfield Work At
Sous Chefs typically find roles in various culinary settings such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often offer the highest salary ranges due to the complexity and expectations of dishes prepared.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide elevated compensation aligned with quality service and larger kitchens.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer lower salaries but more opportunities for hands-on culinary practice.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Can offer variable pay depending on event scale and frequency.
The establishment type greatly impacts salary, with fine dining and upscale hotels commanding higher wages for skilled Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fairfield for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in careers similar to Sous Chef, here are a few related roles you might consider:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share related culinary and managerial responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Fairfield
Sous Chefs should be familiar with the labor and tax regulations that affect their employment.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for overarching labor laws affecting work conditions.
- The California Department of Industrial Relations provides state-specific labor laws, including wage standards and workplace safety.
- Local employment resources can be accessed at the City of Fairfield's official website.