Sous Chef Salary in Honolulu, HI
Sous Chefs in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $31.45 per hour, which translates to about $1,258.00 per week, $5,451.33 per month, and $65,416.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Honolulu is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement in the culinary field within this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Honolulu, HI?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Honolulu varies depending on experience, skills, and the type of establishment, but the following breakdown offers a general overview of earnings at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.45 | $1,258.00 | $5,451.33 | $65,416.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.64 | $1,545.60 | $6,660.80 | $79,891.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation primarily comes from their salary or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $27.86 per hour, which totals approximately $57,948.80 per year. In comparison, Sous Chefs in Honolulu earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $31.45 and an annual salary of $65,416.00.
This higher salary in Honolulu can be attributed to factors such as the local cost of living, tourism-driven demand for culinary expertise, and the concentration of high-end dining establishments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offering competitive salaries for Sous Chefs include:
- Waikīkī: $32.41 per hour
- Kailua: $28.89 per hour
Waikīkī is the highest-paying area among the nearby locations, likely due to its status as a major tourist destination featuring upscale restaurants and resorts.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Honolulu?
A variety of factors can influence how much a Sous Chef earns in Honolulu, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced and highly skilled Sous Chefs command higher wages due to their ability to manage kitchen staff and maintain quality standards effectively.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale hotels, resorts, or fine dining restaurants typically offers higher pay compared to casual dining or fast casual settings.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as Certified Sous Chef (CSC) or food safety credentials can give candidates an edge and potentially increase pay.
- Work Schedule and Shifts: Night shifts, weekends, and holidays might come with premium pay or bonuses.
- Local Cost of Living: Honolulu’s higher living costs contribute to elevated salary levels in the culinary field.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Honolulu
To build a career as a Sous Chef in Honolulu, consider the following steps and educational opportunities:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Kapiʻolani Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program, both offering practical and theoretical training essential for a Sous Chef role.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Completing the ServSafe Certification is valuable to ensure kitchen safety and comply with regulations.
- Acquire Professional Certifications: Pursuing professional certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) offered by the American Culinary Federation demonstrates competence and commitment to the profession.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start by working in kitchen roles such as line cook or kitchen supervisor to build skills and progress toward Sous Chef positions.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Honolulu
Several prominent employers actively seek talented Sous Chefs in Honolulu, including:
- Marriott International
- Hilton
- Merriman's Hawaii
- Morton's The Steakhouse
- Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Honolulu Work At
Sous Chefs in Honolulu typically work in a variety of culinary establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often offer the highest salaries due to the need for highly skilled kitchen management and culinary expertise.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: Large-scale operations provide opportunities for career growth and competitive pay.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Salaries here tend to be lower, but these establishments still present valuable experience and entry-level opportunities.
- Catering Companies and Private Clubs: These venues may offer specialized culinary work with varying salary ranges.
Each type of establishment influences the salary based on the scale, clientele, and dining expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Sous Chefs
If you're interested in careers similar to Sous Chef, consider exploring these related positions that share culinary leadership and kitchen responsibilities:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Honolulu
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is critical for Sous Chefs working in Honolulu to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Access federal labor laws through the U.S. Department of Labor website for information on wage standards, overtime, and workplace regulations.
- Explore state-specific regulations via the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website to learn about local employment laws and protections.