Sous Chef Salary in Kenosha, WI
Sous Chefs in Kenosha, WI earn approximately $24.69 per hour, which translates to about $987.60 per week, $4,279.60 per month, and $51,355.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Kenosha is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industry within the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Kenosha, WI?
The annual earnings of a Sous Chef in Kenosha can vary widely depending on experience level and work environment. Below is a breakdown according to experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.75 | $750.00 | $3,250.00 | $39,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.69 | $987.60 | $4,279.60 | $51,355.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.25 | $1,250.00 | $5,416.67 | $65,000.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Kenosha Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes preparing and supervising kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are mostly salary-based.
Sous Chef Salary in Kenosha vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn about $25 per hour and approximately $52,000 per year.
Compared to the national averages, Sous Chefs in Kenosha earn slightly less hourly but roughly in line annually, reflecting regional variations in cost of living and industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kenosha for Sous Chefs
The highest-paying nearby areas for Sous Chefs include:
- Downtown Kenosha: $26 per hour
- HarborMarket District: $27.50 per hour
These areas offer salaries above the Kenosha average, likely reflecting more upscale dining establishments and higher operational budgets.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Kenosha?
Several key factors impact a Sous Chef’s earning potential in Kenosha:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs skilled in various cuisines and kitchen management typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels often pay more than casual dining or fast-casual establishments.
- Location: Positions in high-traffic, prominent areas such as Downtown Kenosha tend to offer better compensation.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Sous Chefs with formal culinary education or certifications may have an advantage in salary negotiations.
- Work Schedule and Hours: Those willing to work evenings, weekends, or holidays may receive shift differentials or bonuses.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Kenosha
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Kenosha, consider these important steps:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Associate Degree at Lakeshore College provide comprehensive training and prepare students for management roles in kitchens.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring certifications such as ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of proper food handling and safety standards, which employers highly value.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a line cook or kitchen assistant and gradually taking more responsibility helps build skills relevant to Sous Chef roles.
- Develop Leadership and Management Skills: Strong communication and team management abilities are essential for this supervisory kitchen position.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Kenosha
Leading employers actively seeking Sous Chefs in Kenosha include:
- Kenosha Country Club
- Unidine
- Parkhurst Dining
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Kenosha Work At
Sous Chefs find employment in a range of establishments in Kenosha including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer higher salaries reflecting the skill and precision required.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Provide abundant opportunities but may pay less than fine dining.
- Hotels and Country Clubs: These establishments often offer benefits and structured compensation packages.
- Catering Companies: May offer diverse culinary experiences but salaries vary widely.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly influence the potential salary for a Sous Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kenosha for Sous Chefs
If you're exploring hospitality roles related to Sous Chef, consider these similar opportunities:
These careers include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager, which share skills and career paths closely related to Sous Chef roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Kenosha
Sous Chefs should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Find detailed federal employment and labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Wisconsin-specific labor laws and employment resources, visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website.