Sous Chef Salary in Long Beach, CA
Sous Chefs in Long Beach, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $36.26 per hour, equating to about $1,450.40 per week, $6,285.07 per month, and $75,420.80 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Long Beach is growing steadily at about 6% per year, reflecting an expanding culinary and hospitality market in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Long Beach, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Long Beach can vary depending on experience and the employer, but the following breakdown shows typical earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $30.77 | $1,230.80 | $5,338.67 | $64,064.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $36.26 | $1,450.40 | $6,285.07 | $75,420.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.74 | $1,709.60 | $7,388.27 | $88,899.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Long Beach Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips, as they work primarily behind the scenes managing kitchen operations rather than directly serving customers. Their earnings mainly come from salary or wages rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Long Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average wage of around $35.95 per hour, translating to approximately $74,776 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Long Beach earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $36.26 and an annual salary of $75,420.80.
This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living, food scene, and hospitality industry demand in Long Beach.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Long Beach for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas around Long Beach offer competitive salaries for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown: $37.50 per hour
- Waterfront: $38.00 per hour
Sous Chefs working closer to the waterfront area tend to earn the highest wages, reflecting the upscale dining options and tourist traffic in that locale.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Long Beach?
Several factors contribute to the variability in a Sous Chef's salary in Long Beach:
- Experience and culinary skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with refined cooking techniques and leadership skills command higher pay.
- Type of establishment: Working at high-end restaurants or luxury hotels usually offers better compensation than casual eateries.
- Educational background and certifications: Formal training and certifications can boost earning potential.
- Kitchen responsibilities: Sous Chefs who oversee larger teams or multiple kitchen stations may receive higher wages.
- Shift timing and demand: Evening or weekend shifts, or roles in popular dining districts, may come with premium pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Long Beach
Becoming a successful Sous Chef in Long Beach involves several steps and qualifications.
- Complete culinary training: Programs like the Long Beach City College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive instruction in kitchen management, food safety, and culinary techniques.
- Gain practical experience: Starting as a line cook or in entry-level kitchen roles helps build the necessary skills.
- Obtain food safety certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification are often required by employers.
- Advance skills with specialized certifications: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential by the American Culinary Federation demonstrates leadership and advanced culinary expertise.
- Network and seek mentorship: Building connections with culinary professionals in Long Beach can open doors to Sous Chef positions.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Long Beach
Some of the prominent employers seeking skilled Sous Chefs in Long Beach include:
- The Federal Bar
- Restaurant BLVD
- George's Greek Cafe
- Saint & Second
- Boathouse on the Bay
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Long Beach Work At
Sous Chefs in Long Beach typically find employment in various types of establishments:
- Fine dining restaurants: These offer some of the highest salaries due to high expectations for culinary expertise.
- Casual and fast casual dining: These establishments may pay less but can offer more regular hours and faster career advancement.
- Hotel kitchens and resorts: Often offer competitive wages and benefits for Sous Chefs.
- Event venues and catering companies: These might provide diverse experiences and opportunities for creativity.
The type of establishment directly influences salary scale and opportunities for growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Long Beach for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in related roles within the culinary and hospitality industry, consider these similar careers:
These jobs include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager roles, which offer alternative career paths within hospitality management and culinary leadership.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Long Beach
Sous Chefs should be aware of important labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work in Long Beach, CA.
- For federal employment standards and job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
- For California-specific labor laws, wage information, and workforce services, the Employment Development Department of California provides comprehensive resources.