Sous Chef Salary in Lees-Summit, MO
Sous Chefs in Lees-Summit, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $24.28 per hour, which translates to about $971.20 per week, $4,208.53 per month, and $50,502.40 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Lees-Summit is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding culinary industry in the region with increasing opportunities for experienced kitchen leadership.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Lees-Summit, MO?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Lees-Summit varies based on experience and skill, but the following breakdown shows typical earnings at various levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.05 | $802.00 | $3,473.33 | $41,700.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.28 | $971.20 | $4,208.53 | $50,502.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.85 | $1,154.00 | $5,002.67 | $60,008.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Lees-Summit Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on kitchen management and culinary preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income primarily comes from their salary or wages rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Lees-Summit vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $28.85 per hour and approximately $60,008 per year.
Compared to these figures, Sous Chefs in Lees-Summit earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $24.28 and yearly earnings around $50,502.40. This difference may be influenced by local living costs and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lees-Summit for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Sous Chef positions:
- Downtown: $25.50 per hour
- Lakewood: $26.00 per hour
Commuting to these locations could provide Sous Chefs with higher earning potential while still remaining close to Lees-Summit.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Lees-Summit?
Salary levels for Sous Chefs can vary widely depending on several important factors:
- Experience and culinary skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced cooking techniques and leadership abilities command higher pay.
- Type of establishment: Working in high-end restaurants, hotels, or catering can result in greater salaries compared to casual dining spaces.
- Size and reputation of the employer: Larger, well-established kitchens may offer better compensation and benefits.
- Certifications and training: Holding culinary certifications or completing recognized courses can improve salary prospects.
- Shift schedules and hours worked: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts sometimes include higher pay rates.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Lees-Summit
Advancing to a Sous Chef position in Lees-Summit involves a combination of education, certification, and practical experience.
Many aspiring Sous Chefs begin with foundational culinary training such as the Culinary Foundations course offered by the Lee's Summit R-7 School District, which covers nutrition, food safety, and meal planning.
Additionally, obtaining the ServSafe Certification, a critical food and beverage safety credential administered by the National Restaurant Association, is essential for working in professional kitchens to ensure compliance with food safety laws.
Hands-on experience working in kitchens in roles such as line cook or kitchen assistant is key to developing the skills necessary to advance.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Lees-Summit
Several notable local employers frequently look for skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- 30hop
- Roots. Seasonal Cuisine
- The Fountains at Greenbriar
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Lees-Summit Work At
Sous Chefs in Lees-Summit typically find jobs in diverse types of food service establishments:
- Casual dining restaurants: These often provide steady hours and can offer competitive wages for experienced Sous Chefs.
- Fast casual eateries: While generally lower paying than fine dining, some fast casual kitchens offer advancement opportunities.
- Hotels and resorts: Larger establishments provide the chance to work on diverse menus with higher salaries.
- Catering companies and event spaces: These settings may have variable schedules but often offer opportunities for creative culinary leadership.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly affect earning potential and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lees-Summit for Sous Chefs
If you are considering similar roles in the hospitality industry, here are some related careers:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Chef de Cuisine roles, which require related culinary expertise and leadership skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Lees-Summit
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Sous Chefs working in Lees-Summit.
- For federal employment laws and labor information, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific to Missouri state regulations including minimum wage and employment standards, check the Missouri Labor website.