Sous Chef Salary in Hendersonville, TN
Sous Chefs in Hendersonville, TN, in 2025, 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 employment outlook for Sous Chefs in Hendersonville is positive, with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Hendersonville, TN?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Hendersonville can vary depending on experience and the employer, but here is a general overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Hendersonville Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally based on salary or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Hendersonville vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $18.00 per hour, which is equivalent to approximately $37,440.00 per year.
Comparing this to Hendersonville, the average salary for Sous Chefs matches the national figures, showing competitive pay levels that reflect local economic conditions and culinary demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hendersonville for Sous Chefs
When considering nearby neighborhoods, the salary for Sous Chefs varies as follows:
- Downtown Hendersonville: $20.00 per hour
- Indian Lake: $19.00 per hour
These areas offer slightly higher wages than the Hendersonville average, which may be attractive for Sous Chefs seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Hendersonville?
Several factors can significantly affect how much a Sous Chef earns in Hendersonville.
- Experience and Skill Set: Seasoned Sous Chefs with extensive culinary expertise and leadership skills often command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels typically offers better pay compared to casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Location Within the City: Areas like Downtown Hendersonville tend to offer higher wages due to higher living costs and more prestigious restaurants.
- Certifications: Possessing certifications such as the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Sous Chef can enhance salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or holiday work might come with additional pay differentials.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Hendersonville
Becoming a Sous Chef in Hendersonville involves a combination of education, certification, and practical experience.
- Culinary Education: Enrolling in reputable programs such as the Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Art Institute of Tennessee – Nashville Culinary Arts Program can provide essential culinary skills.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification and the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential helps demonstrate professionalism and expertise.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start as a line cook or commis chef to build foundational kitchen skills before advancing to the Sous Chef role.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Strong management and communication abilities are crucial as Sous Chefs supervise kitchen staff and operations.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Hendersonville
Several prominent dining establishments in Hendersonville frequently seek skilled Sous Chefs to join their culinary teams, including:
- The Graystone
- Raw Bliss
- Elements Bistro & Wine Bar
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Hendersonville Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment across a range of establishment types, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These usually offer the highest salaries due to high standards and gourmet menu requirements.
- Casual Dining: Pay scales are moderate but may provide steady work hours and less stress.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments might offer benefits and opportunities for advancement along with competitive pay.
- Catering Services: Experience in catering can vary salary ranges but might include more variable work.
The type of establishment significantly affects a Sous Chef’s salary, with fine dining commanding the highest compensation in the industry.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hendersonville for Sous Chefs
If you're exploring similar roles to that of a Sous Chef, consider positions that also involve culinary expertise and kitchen management.
These roles include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, all of which share overlapping skills and can provide diverse career paths in hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Hendersonville
Understanding labor laws and taxes is important for Sous Chefs working in Hendersonville.
- Information about Tennessee’s state-specific labor laws, including minimum wage and employee protections, can be found on the official Tennessee website.
- For federal labor standards and workplace regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive resources.