Sous Chef Salary in Gainesville, FL
Sous Chefs in Gainesville, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $22.50 per hour, which translates to about $900.00 per week, $3,900.00 per month, and $46,800.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Gainesville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Gainesville, FL?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Gainesville varies depending on experience, skills, and employer. Below is an overview of salaries by experience level in the area.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,467.00 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Gainesville Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role centers on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly consists of their salary or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Gainesville vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average hourly wage of around $23.00 per hour, which amounts to approximately $47,840.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Gainesville earn slightly below with $22.50 per hour and $46,800.00 annually. This is reflective of the regional cost of living and local industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Gainesville for Sous Chefs
Sous Chefs working in nearby areas may see different pay rates, for example:
- Downtown: $24.00 per hour
- Midtown: $23.50 per hour
Those willing to commute to Downtown Gainesville might find better compensation compared to Midtown or other surrounding neighborhoods.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Gainesville?
Several factors affect how much a Sous Chef can earn in Gainesville:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary techniques usually command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants typically offer better pay than casual or fast casual dining.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees and certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can enhance earning potential.
- Kitchen Size and Complexity: Larger kitchens with complex menus often require highly skilled Sous Chefs and offer higher pay.
- Local Market Demand: Economic conditions and competition among restaurants in Gainesville influence wages.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Gainesville
Becoming a successful Sous Chef involves a combination of education, experience, and professional development.
- Formal Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Santa Fe College Culinary Arts Program for hands-on training and theoretical knowledge essential for a culinary career.
- Related Academic Programs: Consider courses at the University of Florida's Food Science and Human Nutrition Department to deepen understanding of food science and nutrition.
- Certifications: Pursue recognized certificates such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification for food safety expertise and the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation to validate your culinary skills.
- Gain Experience: Work your way up in kitchens, starting in entry-level cooking or prep roles, then advancing to line cook and eventually Sous Chef positions.
- Networking and Continuing Education: Attend culinary workshops and industry events to build connections and stay updated on trends.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Gainesville
Several notable employers in Gainesville are seeking skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- HCA Florida North Florida Hospital
- Landry's
- Aramark
- Francesca’s Trattoria
- Upper Crust Food Service
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Gainesville Work At
Sous Chefs in Gainesville are typically employed in a range of foodservice settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often offer the highest salaries due to demanding menus and high service standards.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Pay is generally moderate, reflecting simpler menus and lower average ticket prices.
- Hotels and Healthcare Facilities: Kitchens in hospitals and hotels may provide stable employment with decent benefits and salaries.
- Catering Companies and Food Services: These workplaces require efficient kitchen management, sometimes offering competitive pay.
The nature and prestige of the establishment significantly affect earnings for a Sous Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Gainesville for Sous Chefs
For those interested in similar roles within the hospitality sector, related positions include:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, which share overlapping skills and career paths with Sous Chefs.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Gainesville
Sous Chefs should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and optimize their employment conditions.
- A great resource for federal labor laws and regulations is the U.S. Department of Labor.
- For state-specific labor laws in Florida, including wage and hour rules, visit the official State of Florida website.