Sous Chef Salary in Las Cruces, NM
Sous Chefs in Las Cruces, NM, in 2026, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Las Cruces is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive employment opportunities for culinary professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Las Cruces, NM?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Las Cruces varies by experience level, ranging from entry-level positions to top earners. Below is an overview of typical earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,926.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Las Cruces Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their responsibilities are primarily focused in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly consists of their base salary or hourly wage.
Sous Chef Salary in Las Cruces vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $25.38 per hour, which translates to about $52,790.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Las Cruces earn less, with an average hourly wage of $18.00 and annual earnings around $37,440.00.
This difference reflects local market conditions and living costs affecting salary scales.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Las Cruces for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Mesilla: $19.00 per hour
- University District: $18.50 per hour
Sous Chefs working in Mesilla may find higher pay opportunities compared to those in the University District, with Las Cruces itself offering competitive wages within the region.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Las Cruces?
Multiple factors contribute to the variation in salaries for Sous Chefs in Las Cruces:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary skills command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at high-end restaurants or hotels generally offers better compensation than casual dining venues.
- Specialized Skills: Knowledge of specific cuisines or management capabilities can enhance salary potential.
- Work Schedule and Hours: Shifts during peak dining hours or weekends might come with additional pay.
- Educational Background: Enrollment in culinary programs and completion of certifications can influence earning capacity.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Las Cruces
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Las Cruces, aspiring culinary professionals should consider the following:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: The Culinary Arts Program at Doña Ana Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts, providing hands-on training in cooking techniques and kitchen management crucial for advancement.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is essential for kitchen staff to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in roles such as line cook or prep cook can build the skills necessary to advance into a Sous Chef role.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Sous Chefs are often responsible for supervising kitchen staff, so management abilities are important.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Las Cruces
Several local establishments actively seek skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- The Bull Pen
- La Posta de Mesilla
- Andele Restaurant
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Las Cruces Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment in various types of culinary establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Generally offer higher salaries due to the demanding culinary standards and customer expectations.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Eateries: These establishments may provide entry-level opportunities with moderate pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay competitive wages and may include benefits and opportunities for advancement.
- Catering Companies: Can provide varied work environments and compensation depending on contract sizes and events.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with higher-end venues typically offering better pay for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Las Cruces for Sous Chefs
Those interested in similar career paths to Sous Chef might explore related roles which involve culinary and management skills.
Related careers include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager, each with unique responsibilities but sharing fundamental culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Las Cruces
Sous Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and comply with requirements.
- For federal labor laws and workplace regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor information relevant to New Mexico workers, see the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.