Sous Chef Salary in Fargo, ND
Sous Chefs in Fargo, ND, in 2026, earn approximately $18.50 per hour, which translates to about $740.00 per week, $3,206.67 per month, and $38,480.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Fargo is growing moderately at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Fargo, ND?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Fargo varies based on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown across levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.50 | $740.00 | $3,206.67 | $38,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Fargo Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their responsibilities are focused on kitchen operations behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally composed of salary or hourly wages alone.
Sous Chef Salary in Fargo vs. National Average
Across the United States, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $20.00 per hour, equating to roughly $41,600.00 per year.
By comparison, Sous Chefs in Fargo earn slightly less, with an average hourly rate of $18.50 and annual earnings around $38,480.00. This difference reflects local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fargo for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Sous Chefs, including:
- Downtown Fargo: $19.50 per hour
- West Fargo: $20.00 per hour
Those seeking higher pay might consider positions in West Fargo, where wages are slightly above the Fargo average.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Fargo?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Fargo can be influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced and highly skilled Sous Chefs command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts often offer better pay than casual dining or fast casual places.
- Certifications: Professional certifications such as Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation can boost earnings.
- Responsibilities and Leadership: Those managing larger teams or multiple kitchen sections may earn more.
- Local Job Market and Demand: Growing hospitality sectors can increase demand and wages.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Fargo
Building a career as a Sous Chef in Fargo involves several important steps:
- Education: Enroll in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at North Dakota State College of Science for hands-on culinary training.
- Study Hospitality Management: The Hospitality Management Program at Minnesota State Community and Technical College offers valuable leadership and culinary skills.
- Certifications: Obtain food safety credentials such as ServSafe Food Manager Certification to meet health standards.
- Professional Recognition: Pursue the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification to validate your expertise.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles and advance through demonstrated skill and leadership.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Fargo
Several well-known local establishments actively hire Sous Chefs, including:
- Hotel Donaldson
- Mezzaluna
- The Boiler Room
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Fargo Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment across a variety of culinary venues, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often provide higher salaries due to the demanding culinary standards and guest expectations.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Pay may be more moderate but can offer faster opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may offer comprehensive benefits and competitive wages.
- Catering Services: Pay can vary based on event size and scope.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary and job responsibilities for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fargo for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in careers similar to Sous Chef, consider these related roles:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, which require related culinary leadership skills and offer varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Fargo
Sous Chefs in Fargo should be aware of the following resources regarding labor laws and tax obligations:
- For information on North Dakota state labor regulations, visit the Official website of the state of North Dakota.
- For details on federal labor laws and employee rights, see the U.S. Department of Labor website.