Sous Chef Salary in Lincoln, NE
Sous Chefs in Lincoln, NE, in 2025, earn approximately $27.67 per hour, which translates to about $1,106.80 per week, $4,796.13 per month, and $57,553.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Lincoln is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement in the culinary field within this region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Lincoln, NE?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Lincoln can vary depending on experience and establishment, with compensation generally increasing as one gains skills and tenure.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.17 | $1,006.80 | $4,354.40 | $52,416.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.67 | $1,106.80 | $4,796.13 | $57,553.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.43 | $1,217.20 | $5,288.27 | $63,314.40 |
Do Sous Chefs in Lincoln Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is mostly based on salary or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Lincoln vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $28.44 per hour, equating to approximately $59,155.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Lincoln earn slightly less by about $0.77 per hour and $1,601.60 annually.
This difference can reflect variations in cost of living and local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lincoln for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Lincoln: $28.50 per hour
- Haymarket District: $29.00 per hour
Working in these districts may provide a higher salary compared to other parts of Lincoln, likely due to the concentration of upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Lincoln?
Several factors impact the salary of a Sous Chef in Lincoln:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary techniques or management skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels generally pay more compared to casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can increase earning potential.
- Shift Hours and Responsibilities: Working night shifts, weekends, or taking on additional managerial duties can lead to higher pay.
- Local Demand and Economic Conditions: The strength of the local hospitality industry and competition for skilled chefs influence salaries.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Lincoln
To embark on a career as a Sous Chef in Lincoln, consider the following steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Southeast Community College Culinary/Hospitality Program which offers hands-on training in culinary arts and management.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining a ServSafe Certification is essential for ensuring safe kitchen practices.
- Achieve Professional Certification: Pursue the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential through the American Culinary Federation to validate your skills.
- Build Practical Experience: Start as a line cook or commis chef and work upwards to develop necessary kitchen skills and leadership abilities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Lincoln
Several prominent employers in Lincoln regularly seek qualified Sous Chefs, including:
- Firethorn Golf Club
- ISS Facility Services
- Legacy Retirement Communities
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Lincoln Work At
Sous Chefs commonly work in diverse dining and hospitality settings such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer higher salaries due to the quality and complexity of the cuisine.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide stable employment and sometimes benefits alongside competitive pay.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Salaries may be lower but this segment offers growth opportunities for Sous Chefs gaining experience.
- Country Clubs and Golf Clubs: These establishments may pay well owing to exclusive clientele and diverse menu offerings.
The type and prestige of the establishment play a significant role in the level of compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lincoln for Sous Chefs
If you are exploring career options similar to a Sous Chef, consider these related roles:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager, roles that share overlapping skills and responsibilities with a Sous Chef.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Lincoln
For complying with local and federal regulations, Sous Chefs in Lincoln should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax obligations.
- Information on Nebraska labor laws and employment resources can be found at the Nebraska Department of Labor website.
- Comprehensive details about federal labor laws and worker rights are available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.