Sous Chef Salary in Lansing, MI
Sous Chefs in Lansing, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $26.43 per hour, equating to about $1,057.20 per week, $4,581.20 per month, and $54,974.40 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Lansing is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend in job opportunities within the culinary industry of the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Lansing, MI?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Lansing varies depending on experience and employer, but here's a general breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.80 | $792.00 | $3,432.00 | $41,184.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.43 | $1,057.20 | $4,581.20 | $54,974.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.29 | $1,411.60 | $6,080.27 | $72,963.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Lansing Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their roles are focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from their base salary or wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Lansing, MI vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $27.02 per hour and $56,201.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Lansing earn slightly less hourly at $26.43 but remain competitive with an annual salary close to the national figure.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lansing for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer marginally higher wages for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Lansing: $27.50 per hour
- East Lansing: $28.00 per hour
Sous Chefs working in East Lansing can expect to earn the highest wages near Lansing.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Lansing?
Several factors can influence a Sous Chef’s salary in Lansing:
- Experience and Expertise: Greater culinary skills and leadership experience can lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels usually offer better compensation compared to casual dining.
- Educational Background: Culinary degrees and certifications can improve earnings.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts may yield additional compensation.
- Local Demand: Lansing's growing hospitality industry supports salary increases.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Lansing
Becoming a successful Sous Chef in Lansing involves several key steps:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Programs such as the Lansing Community College Culinary Arts Program provide hands-on training and foundational knowledge.
- Consider Hospitality Degrees: Michigan State University offers a Hospitality Business Program incorporating culinary courses and internships to build comprehensive skills.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required by employers.
- Pursue Professional Certifications: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential by the American Culinary Federation demonstrates advanced culinary leadership.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Lansing
Some of the notable employers seeking Sous Chefs in Lansing include:
- The State Room
- Red Haven
- Soup Spoon Café
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Lansing Work At
Sous Chefs in Lansing work in a variety of culinary environments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually provide higher salaries due to the complexity and standards required.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Pay ranges are moderate, reflecting the operational scale.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often offer competitive wages along with benefits.
- Catering Services: May offer varied earnings depending on event-driven demand.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly impact a Sous Chef’s earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lansing for Sous Chefs
If you’re interested in career paths related to Sous Chefs, consider the following opportunities:
These include Chef, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, all offering different responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Lansing
Understanding local and federal labor laws is essential for Sous Chefs working in Lansing:
- Visit the Michigan government website for up-to-date local employment regulations and worker rights.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor for federal labor laws, wage standards, and occupational safety information.