Sous Chef Salary in Fayetteville, AR
Sous Chefs in Fayetteville, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $22.80 per hour, which translates to about $912.00 per week, $3,952.00 per month, and $47,424.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Fayetteville is growing at a rate of 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this culinary role across the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Fayetteville, AR?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Fayetteville varies depending on experience, skill level, and the employer's profile. Below is a general overview of expected earnings at various career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.99 | $879.60 | $3,813.80 | $45,763.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.80 | $912.00 | $3,952.00 | $47,424.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.55 | $1,182.00 | $5,113.80 | $61,464.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Fayetteville Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role focuses primarily on kitchen management and culinary preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation usually comes from their salary alone.
Sous Chef Salary in Fayetteville vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn approximately $30.39 per hour, which translates to about $63,211.20 per year.
Compared to this, Sous Chefs in Fayetteville earn less at around $22.80 per hour and $47,424 annually. The difference is influenced by regional cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fayetteville for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Fayetteville: $23.50 per hour
- Dickson Street: $24.00 per hour
These areas may provide better compensation due to their popularity and volume of dining establishments.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Fayetteville?
Several key factors affect how much a Sous Chef can earn in Fayetteville:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs tend to command higher wages, especially those skilled in diverse cuisines and advanced kitchen techniques.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or exclusive clubs typically provides higher pay than casual dining chains.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Culinary degrees and credentials like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can enhance salary prospects.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Irregular or extended hours may come with premium pay in some kitchens.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with a booming restaurant scene drive up wages due to competition for skilled kitchen staff.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Fayetteville
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Fayetteville, here are essential steps and helpful programs:
- Culinary Education: Attending programs such as Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food in nearby Bentonville or the NorthWest Arkansas Community College Culinary Arts Program can provide a strong foundational skill set.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is crucial for demonstrating knowledge of food handling safety, a legal and professional requirement.
- Professional Certification: Earning a Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification from the American Culinary Federation can increase your credibility and career advancement.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles like line cook or prep cook and work your way up to manage kitchen staff and operations.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Fayetteville
Several establishments in Fayetteville actively seek qualified Sous Chefs, including:
- The Farmer’s Table
- Bordinos Restaurant
- JJ’s Grill
- Tusk & Trotter American Brasserie
- Mockingbird Kitchen
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Fayetteville Work At
Sous Chefs work in a variety of dining venues, which often impact their pay:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher salaries due to the complex menu and service standards.
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Usually provide moderate pay with more predictable hours.
- Hotel Kitchens and Banquet Facilities: Often pay well and offer benefits but can require flexible schedules.
- Catering Services: Work can be seasonal and variable but might include premium pay for larger events.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fayetteville for Sous Chefs
For those interested in related career paths to Sous Chef, here are some similar roles to consider:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, roles closely connected to culinary leadership and operational management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Fayetteville
Working Sous Chefs should be familiar with state and federal labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive federal labor regulations.
- The State of Arkansas website provides resources on local employment standards and tax information.