Sous Chef Salary in Knoxville, TN
Sous Chefs in Knoxville, TN, in 2026, earn approximately $25.05 per hour, which translates to about $1,002.00 per week, $4,342.00 per month, and $52,104.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Knoxville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market and increasing opportunities in culinary roles within the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Knoxville, TN?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Knoxville varies based on experience and employer, but below is a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.00 | $1,160.00 | $5,006.67 | $60,320.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Knoxville Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work primarily involves kitchen management and food preparation, with limited direct customer interaction. Their compensation is most often salary- or wage-based.
Sous Chef Salary in Knoxville vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $25.05 per hour, which equates to roughly $52,104 per year.
Sous Chefs in Knoxville, TN, earn approximately the same hourly rate and annual salary when compared to the national average, suggesting local pay scales are in line with broader industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Knoxville for Sous Chefs
If you are considering positions near Knoxville, pay rates can vary slightly by neighborhood:
- Downtown Knoxville: $27.00 per hour
- West Knoxville: $26.00 per hour
These areas tend to offer slightly higher salaries, likely due to more prestigious dining establishments and greater demand for experienced culinary professionals.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Knoxville?
Several factors bear heavily on the earning potential of a Sous Chef in Knoxville:
- Experience and Skill Level: Years of experience in the kitchen and mastery of culinary techniques strongly impact salary.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants, hotels, or catering services tend to pay more than casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in specific cuisines, dietary accommodations, or kitchen management can boost compensation.
- Certification and Education: Culinary certificates and formal training add value to a Sous Chef's profile.
- Work Schedule and Responsibilities: More complex roles, including those with supervisory duties or extended hours, often command higher pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Knoxville
Pursuing a career as a Sous Chef in Knoxville involves gaining culinary skills and relevant certifications. Here are some steps to consider:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Programs such as the UT Culinary Certificate Program offer intensive courses recognized by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation, preparing students for diverse culinary roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification administered by the National Restaurant Association is essential for understanding food safety and handling practices required in professional kitchens.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions and progressing through apprenticeships helps build practical skills and industry knowledge.
- Networking and Mentors: Connecting with experienced chefs and culinary professionals in Knoxville can provide guidance and employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Knoxville
Knoxville’s culinary scene has notable employers looking to hire Sous Chefs, including:
- Blackberry Farm
- The French Market Creperie
- Knox Mason
- J.C. Holdway
- Chesapeake's
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Knoxville Work At
Sous Chefs in Knoxville find roles in a variety of foodservice settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often offer the highest pay due to the complexity and quality standards.
- Casual Dining: Mid-range restaurants provide steady work and competitive salaries.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large-scale kitchens with extensive menus may pay more and offer benefits.
- Catering Services and Event Venues: These roles can vary widely but may include opportunities for overtime and bonuses.
The type and prestige of the establishment play a key role in determining pay scale and advancement potential for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Knoxville for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in careers similar to Sous Chef, you might consider related roles such as:
Popular related roles include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager, each involving leadership and specialized culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Knoxville
Sous Chefs should remain aware of state and federal labor laws that affect work conditions, wages, and taxes.
- Information about Tennessee labor laws can be found on the official state website, detailing wage standards and regulations.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website offers resources on federal labor laws and workplace compliance.