Sous Chef Salary in Inglewood, CA
Sous Chefs in Inglewood, CA, in 2025, earn an average of $34.48 per hour, which amounts to approximately $1,379.20 per week, $5,976.53 per month, and $71,718.40 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Inglewood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for culinary professionals in this vibrant California city.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Inglewood, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Inglewood varies depending on experience and skill, but here is a breakdown of earnings for different levels of expertise.
| 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) | $34.48 | $1,379.20 | $5,976.53 | $71,718.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.08 | $1,523.20 | $6,563.73 | $78,822.40 |
Do Sous Chefs in Inglewood 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 service. Their compensation mainly comes from their salary or hourly wage rather than tip income.
Sous Chef Salary in Inglewood, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $30.39 per hour, which amounts to about $63,211.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Inglewood earn higher wages, with an average hourly rate of $34.48 and an annual salary of $71,718.40. This reflects the city's competitive culinary market and the higher cost of living in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Inglewood, CA for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas where Sous Chefs can earn competitive salaries include:
- El Segundo: $35.82 per hour
- Santa Monica: $35.50 per hour
Both El Segundo and Santa Monica offer slightly higher hourly rates than Inglewood, providing options for those willing to commute for higher earnings.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Inglewood, CA?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations among Sous Chefs in Inglewood:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs with strong leadership and culinary skills tend to command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies generally offers better compensation than casual or fast food settings.
- Location: Salaries may fluctuate based on proximity to high-end dining districts or tourist areas in and around Inglewood.
- Certifications and Education: Professional culinary certifications and advanced training can boost employability and salary.
- Kitchen Size and Complexity: Larger kitchens with diverse menus often pay more due to the increased responsibilities involved.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Inglewood, CA
Becoming a successful Sous Chef in Inglewood involves several key steps:
- Education: Enroll in a culinary program such as the Culinary Arts Program at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College or the Professional Culinary Arts Program at the Institute of Culinary Education, Los Angeles. These programs offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Certifications: Obtain certifications like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, which is often required for managerial roles, or the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate your expertise.
- Gain Experience: Start working in various kitchen roles, such as line cook or kitchen supervisor, to build skills and advance to sous chef positions.
- Develop Essential Skills: Leadership, communication, time management, and culinary creativity are crucial for success in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Inglewood, CA
Some of the prominent establishments looking to hire Sous Chefs in Inglewood include:
- Katsuya Inglewood
- PL8 Kitchen
- The Proud Bird
- Shay Kitchen
- Yard House - SoFi Stadium
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Inglewood Work At
Sous Chefs in Inglewood find employment in a variety of food and beverage establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to the complexity of dishes and level of service.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide stable employment with competitive pay and benefits.
- Catering Companies: May offer dynamic work environments with variable pay depending on event scale.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally pay less but provide valuable experience.
The type of establishment greatly affects the earning potential, with finer dining venues usually paying more due to the skill level required.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Inglewood, CA for Sous Chefs
If you are considering careers related to Sous Chef roles, here are several similar positions worth exploring:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles, each offering its own range of responsibilities and salary potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Inglewood, CA
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Sous Chefs working in Inglewood.
- You can learn about workplace rights, wage standards, and safety regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For specifics on California labor laws and wage rules, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.