Sous Chef Salary in Lawton, OK
Sous Chefs in Lawton, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $21.57 per hour, which translates to about $862.80 per week, $3,738.80 per month, and $44,865.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Lawton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook for culinary professionals interested in advancing their careers in this region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Lawton, OK?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Lawton varies depending on experience and the specific establishment, but here's an overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.75 | $750.00 | $3,250.00 | $39,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.57 | $862.80 | $3,738.80 | $44,865.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.10 | $1,004.00 | $4,346.67 | $52,208.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Lawton, OK Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work mostly happens behind the scenes in kitchen management and food preparation. Their earnings come primarily from their base salary rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Lawton, OK vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $26.88 per hour, which translates to approximately $55,910.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Lawton earn less on average, with about $21.57 per hour and $44,865.60 annually. This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and demand for culinary roles in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lawton, OK for Sous Chefs
When looking at nearby areas around Lawton, salary rates for Sous Chefs differ slightly:
- Downtown: $22.50 per hour
- West Lawton: $23.00 per hour
Sous Chefs working in West Lawton tend to earn the highest pay among nearby locations, offering better compensation compared to other areas.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Lawton, OK?
Several important factors can influence how much a Sous Chef earns in Lawton:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with strong culinary and management abilities can command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or country clubs generally offer better pay compared to casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary training and certifications can positively impact earning potential.
- Shift and Work Hours: Working nights or weekend shifts may come with added pay or bonuses.
- Local Economic Factors: Regional demand for culinary talent and the cost of living play significant roles in salary variations.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Lawton, OK
Becoming a Sous Chef in Lawton involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications.
Many start their culinary careers by completing programs like the Culinary Hospitality Assistant offered by Great Plains Technology Center, which prepares students for various food preparation tasks and provides an overview of restaurant operations and international cuisines.
Further advancement can be supported by programs such as the Culinary Coordinator offered at the same institution, training students to manage or operate food service businesses.
Certifications such as the ServSafe Certification are essential for meeting food safety standards in the industry. Additionally, credentials like the ProStart National Certificate of Achievement reflect a strong foundation in culinary arts and restaurant management.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Lawton, OK
Several well-known employers in Lawton actively seek skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- Lawton Country Club
- Southern Foodservice Management
- Great Plains Technology Center
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Lawton, OK Work At
Sous Chefs commonly work in various food service establishments such as:
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These typically offer higher pay rates due to the level of skill and experience required.
- Country Clubs and Hotels: Provide competitive wages and often opportunities for career growth.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Generally offer lower salaries but provide valuable experience for chefs building their careers.
- Catering Companies: May present unique challenges and vary in compensation depending on event scale and frequency.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary, with fine dining and exclusive venues generally offering the most lucrative opportunities for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lawton, OK for Sous Chefs
If you're interested in roles similar to Sous Chef, consider these related positions within the hospitality industry.
These include positions such as Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, all of which share overlapping skills and may offer alternative career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Lawton, OK
Sous Chefs should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor laws affecting their employment.
- Federal labor regulations, including wages and workplace safety, can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific information on employment rules and resources, visit the Oklahoma government website.