Sous Chef Salary in Lakewood, CO
Sous Chefs in Lakewood, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $22.50 per hour, which translates to about $900.00 per week, $3,900.00 per month, and $46,800.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Lakewood is growing steadily at about 6% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for culinary professionals seeking advancement in this area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Lakewood, CO?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Lakewood can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general breakdown based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Lakewood Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is focused more on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Their earnings primarily come from their base salary or wages rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Lakewood vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $20.00 per hour, translating to about $41,600 per year.
Compared to these figures, Sous Chefs in Lakewood earn a higher hourly rate of $22.50 and an annual salary of $46,800.00.
This difference can be influenced by local living costs and the demand for skilled kitchen leadership in the Lakewood area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakewood for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Sous Chefs as well:
- Belmar: $24.00 per hour
- Green Mountain: $23.50 per hour
These higher rates reflect the varying demand and cost of living in the surrounding communities.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Lakewood?
Several factors play a crucial role in determining the salary of a Sous Chef in Lakewood:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary skills or management abilities often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and resorts usually offer better compensation than casual dining or fast food establishments.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary degrees or certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) boosts earning potential.
- Scope of Responsibilities: Sous Chefs who manage larger teams or multiple kitchen stations may receive higher wages.
- Local Economic Factors: The cost of living and competitive market demand in Lakewood influence pay scales.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Lakewood
Becoming a qualified Sous Chef involves several key steps including education and skill development.
- Complete a Culinary Arts Program: Enrolling in programs such as the Red Rocks Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Cook Street School of Culinary Arts offers comprehensive training including hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential to ensure compliance with safety standards in kitchens.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Gaining the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates your skills and can improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a line cook or in other kitchen roles allows you to build the skills required for a Sous Chef position.
- Develop Management Skills: As a Sous Chef often assists with staff supervision, honing leadership abilities is important.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Lakewood
Lakewood features several well-known employers seeking skilled Sous Chefs:
- The Fort Restaurant
- 240 Union
- Simms Steakhouse
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Lakewood Work At
Sous Chefs are employed across a variety of establishments including casual dining, fast casual, fine dining restaurants, hotels, and resorts.
The type of establishment often impacts salary, with fine dining and upscale hotels offering higher pay due to elevated service expectations and complexity of menu offerings.
Conversely, fast casual or casual restaurants may offer lower salaries but often come with faster career progression opportunities and different work environments.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakewood for Sous Chefs
If you are considering careers related to being a Sous Chef, there are several similar roles within the hospitality industry that might interest you.
These include positions such as Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager, which involve related culinary and leadership responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Lakewood
Sous Chefs should be familiar with both state and federal labor laws as well as tax requirements to understand their rights and obligations.
- Visit the Colorado state website for detailed information on labor laws and employment regulations specific to the state.
- For federal labor laws and standards, the U.S. Department of Labor’s official website provides comprehensive resources.