Sous Chef Salary in Jersey City, NJ
Sous Chefs in Jersey City, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $31.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,260.00 per week, $5,460.00 per month, and $65,520.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Jersey City is seeing positive growth at about 5% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities and a healthy job market in the culinary field in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Jersey City, NJ?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Jersey City varies based on experience and workplace, but here is a breakdown by experience level.
| 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) | $31.50 | $1,260.00 | $5,460.00 | $65,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,573.33 | $78,960.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Jersey City Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips, as their role is primarily focused on kitchen operations and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation usually comes from their salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Jersey City, NJ vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $31.25 per hour, which amounts to roughly $65,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Jersey City earn slightly more with an average hourly wage of $31.50 and an annual salary of $65,520.
This difference may relate to the higher cost of living and thriving culinary scene in Jersey City and nearby metropolitan areas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jersey City for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer these variations in pay for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown: $35.00 per hour
- Waterfront: $36.50 per hour
These higher wages in Downtown and Waterfront demonstrate the premium paid in busier or more upscale neighborhoods.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Jersey City?
Several important factors affect how much a Sous Chef can earn in Jersey City:
- Experience Level: More experienced Sous Chefs command higher salaries, especially those with years in upscale kitchens or culinary leadership.
- Skillset: Proficiency in kitchen management, menu planning, and specialized cuisine can increase pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering services often offer better compensation than casual or fast food venues.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees and certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential can boost prospects.
- Work Hours and Shift: Some kitchens offer shift differentials for evenings or weekends that may increase earnings.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Jersey City
Building a career as a Sous Chef involves several key steps:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Programs like the Hudson County Community College Culinary Arts Certificate provide valuable hands-on training and externships.
- Consider Flexible Learning Options: Escoffier Online Culinary Degree offers accredited online training with industry externships, suitable for balancing work and study.
- Earn Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification and the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrate competency and can improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Begin working in kitchens in roles like line cook to build skills and move up.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Jersey City
Notable local establishments hiring Sous Chefs include:
- Razza Pizza Artigianale
- Hudson House
- Skinner's Loft
- Roman Nose
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Jersey City Work At
Sous Chefs typically work in a variety of foodservice settings, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues generally offer higher pay and demand high culinary skill.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide steady employment with benefits and competitive wages.
- Catering Companies: Variable pay depending on event size and complexity, but opportunities to expand skill set.
- Casual Dining and Fast Casual Establishments: May offer more entry-level positions with lower average wages.
The type and prestige of an establishment can significantly impact income levels for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jersey City for Sous Chefs
If you are exploring careers similar to Sous Chef, consider these related roles:
These include positions such as Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager, roles that share culinary leadership responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Jersey City
Sous Chefs should be aware of important labor laws and tax regulations to manage their employment and finances effectively.
- Federal labor laws and employment information can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- New Jersey state-specific labor laws are detailed on the New Jersey official government website.