Sous Chef Salary in Lakeland, FL
Sous Chefs in Lakeland, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $20.05 per hour, which translates to about $802.00 per week, $3,475.33 per month, and $41,704.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Lakeland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and expanding opportunities in the restaurant and hospitality industries in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Lakeland, FL?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Lakeland varies based on experience, skills, and employer size. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.63 | $625.20 | $2,708.67 | $32,510.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.05 | $802.00 | $3,475.33 | $41,704.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.69 | $1,027.60 | $4,440.47 | $53,435.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Lakeland Earn Tips?
Generally, Sous Chefs do not earn tips as part of their compensation because their role is primarily behind the scenes managing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly stems from their salary or hourly wage.
Sous Chef Salary in Lakeland vs. National Average
Across the United States, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $25.00 per hour, totaling roughly $52,000 per year.
When compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Lakeland earn somewhat less, with an average hourly wage of $20.05 and an annual salary of $41,704.00. This difference can be influenced by local economic conditions and the cost of living in Lakeland.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakeland for Sous Chefs
If you're considering opportunities nearby Lakeland, here are some areas with higher pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Lakeland: $21.50 per hour
- South Lakeland: $22.00 per hour
These slightly higher wages reflect different demand levels and establishment types in these parts of the city.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Lakeland?
Several key factors shape the earnings of a Sous Chef in Lakeland:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More seasoned Sous Chefs with strong leadership and cooking skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and resorts often offer better pay compared to casual dining or fast-food kitchens.
- Location Within Lakeland: Certain neighborhoods or districts, like South Lakeland, offer higher pay due to clientele and establishment reputation.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications can enhance a Sous Chef’s value and salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or holiday work might include additional pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Lakeland
Establishing a successful career as a Sous Chef involves several steps and educational pathways:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Schools like Lake Technical College near Orlando offer comprehensive Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality programs, providing hands-on training for aspiring culinary professionals.
- Join Apprenticeship Programs: The Culinary Apprenticeship Program at Spectrum Health Lakeland is a Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship that combines paid practical experience with classroom instruction. Completing it earns participants DOL and ServSafe certifications.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and ServSafe Allergens ensure knowledge of important safety and allergen management practices in professional kitchens.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Starting in entry-level roles such as Line Cook or Prep Cook enables hands-on learning and career growth toward Sous Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Lakeland
Sous Chefs in Lakeland can find opportunities at a variety of local employers, including:
- Publix
- Lakeland Regional Medical Center
- Florida Southern College
- Born & Bread Bakehouse
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Lakeland Work At
Sous Chefs typically work in diverse culinary environments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide fast-paced kitchens with solid earning potential but generally moderate wages.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Offer higher salaries due to the complexity and quality expectations involved.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer comprehensive benefits and competitive pay depending on the scale of operations.
- Catering Services and Institutional Kitchens: Positions here can vary in pay based on the clientele and contract size.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly affect the salary, with upscale venues rewarding advanced skills with better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakeland for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to Sous Chef roles, here are a few related positions you might consider exploring:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager – all roles requiring strong culinary leadership and management skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Lakeland
Sous Chefs need to be informed about federal and state labor regulations and tax obligations to ensure proper employment compliance and financial management.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor for federal labor laws and standards.
- For state-specific regulations, visit the Official State of Florida website for comprehensive employment information.