Sous Chef Salary in Longmont, CO
Sous Chefs in Longmont, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $22.00 per hour, which translates to about $880.00 per week, $3,813.33 per month, and $45,760.00 per year.
The job demand for Sous Chefs is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals seeking advancement in this supervised kitchen management role in Longmont.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Longmont, CO?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Longmont can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Longmont Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips because their work mostly takes place in the kitchen away from direct customer interaction. Their compensation is primarily based on salary or wage agreements rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Longmont vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $27.00 per hour, which equals approximately $56,160.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Longmont earn a bit less, about $22.00 per hour and $45,760.00 yearly.
This difference may reflect the local cost of living and the scale of culinary establishments typical to the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Longmont for Sous Chefs
Nearby neighborhoods offering somewhat higher pay for Sous Chefs include:
- Downtown: $23.00 per hour
- South Longmont: $24.00 per hour
These areas often have a diverse range of dining options where culinary professionals might find higher wages than in other parts of Longmont.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Longmont?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations among Sous Chefs in Longmont:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Advanced food preparation abilities and years in professional kitchens generally lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts often offer better compensation than casual dining or fast-food kitchens.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary training and certifications can enhance a Sous Chef’s earning potential.
- Leadership Responsibilities: Those supervising larger kitchen teams or multiple departments tend to earn more.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Economic conditions and competition for skilled cooks influence wages in the region.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Longmont
Starting a career as a Sous Chef in Longmont involves several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Arts Education: Enroll in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in nearby Boulder, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Earn a Professional Cook Certificate: Obtain credentials like the Professional Cook Certificate at Front Range Community College, located in Longmont, to establish foundational culinary skills.
- Secure Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is nationally recognized and crucial for ensuring safe food handling practices.
- Consider Advanced Certifications: Achieve professional recognition such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate advanced culinary skills and leadership.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in kitchens to build hands-on skills, often progressing from line cook or demi chef roles toward Sous Chef responsibilities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Longmont
Here are some prominent local employers known to hire skilled Sous Chefs:
- Pumphouse Brewery
- Oskar Blues Homemade Liquids & Solids
- The Roost Longmont
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Longmont Work At
Sous Chefs typically work across various types of culinary establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments may have moderate salary ranges but often provide steady work and customer interaction opportunities.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher-end venues usually offer better pay and demand heightened skill and creativity from Sous Chefs.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations may provide higher wages along with benefits and career development opportunities.
- Breweries and Gastropubs: Growing segments providing dynamic work environments and competitive pay scales.
The size, prestige, and clientele of the establishment significantly influence salary levels, with luxury hotels and fine dining typically paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Longmont for Sous Chefs
If you're considering careers related to being a Sous Chef, here are some similar roles in the hospitality sector:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions—roles that often require overlapping skills and offer different salary prospects within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Longmont
It is important for Sous Chefs to understand the labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their profession.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor laws, workers' rights, and wage regulations.
- For state-specific rules and resources, the State of Colorado's official website provides useful guidance on employment standards and compliance.