Sous Chef Salary in Huntington Beach, CA
Sous Chefs in Huntington Beach, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $36.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,460.00 per week, $6,326.67 per month, and $75,920.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Huntington Beach is growing at an annual rate of about 5%, indicating a positive outlook and rising job opportunities in the culinary sector in this area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Huntington Beach, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Huntington Beach varies depending on their level of experience and the establishment where they work. Below is a breakdown of earnings at different stages of their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $29.20 | $1,168.00 | $5,053.33 | $60,736.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $36.50 | $1,460.00 | $6,326.67 | $75,920.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $47.00 | $1,880.00 | $8,133.33 | $97,760.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Huntington Beach Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused in the kitchen with limited direct customer interaction. Their total compensation generally comes from their salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Huntington Beach vs. National Average
On a national scale, Sous Chefs earn about $32.60 per hour, equating to roughly $67,808 annually.
Compared to this, Sous Chefs in Huntington Beach make notably more with an average hourly wage of $36.50 and an annual salary of $75,920. This suggests a competitive pay environment influenced by local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington Beach for Sous Chefs
Nearby localities offer the following wages for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Huntington Beach: $38.00 per hour
- Sunset Beach: $37.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown Huntington Beach tend to earn the highest wages among nearby areas, reflecting possibly more upscale or busy culinary establishments.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Huntington Beach?
Several factors impact the salary of a Sous Chef in Huntington Beach:
- Experience and Expertise: A seasoned Sous Chef with a strong skill set can command a higher wage.
- Type of Culinary Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or resorts often pay more compared to casual dining.
- Certification and Training: Culinary education and certifications can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working nights, weekends, or holidays may come with extra pay.
- Reputation and Networking: Well-connected professionals can access better opportunities.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Huntington Beach
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Huntington Beach, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program or The Art Institute of California – Orange County Culinary Program provide solid foundational and practical training in culinary arts.
- Earn Certifications: Achieving certifications such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification or the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation can enhance your credentials.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles and progressing through positions like Line Cook helps build necessary skills.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Since Sous Chefs often supervise kitchen staff, strong management abilities are key.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Huntington Beach
Some of the prominent employers in Huntington Beach that hire Sous Chefs include:
- Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa
- The Waterfront Beach Resort
- Duke's Huntington Beach
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Huntington Beach Work At
Sous Chefs are commonly employed in a diverse range of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often provide higher salaries due to their emphasis on quality and skill.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues typically offer stable employment and attractive benefits packages.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: While pay might be somewhat lower, these places may offer more flexible hours.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: These roles might have varied schedules but can provide unique culinary challenges.
The type of establishment significantly influences earnings, with upscale restaurants and resorts usually offering the best pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington Beach for Sous Chefs
Sous Chefs often have skills transferable to related culinary roles, which can offer different opportunities and salary ranges.
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Executive Chef roles, which share similar skill sets and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Huntington Beach
Understanding local and federal labor laws is important for Sous Chefs to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For California-specific labor laws, you can refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations.