Sous Chef Salary in Madison, WI
Sous Chefs in Madison, WI, in 2026, earn approximately $25.50 per hour, which equates to about $1,020.00 per week, $4,420.00 per month, and $53,040.00 per year.
The job market for Sous Chefs in Madison is looking positive, with employment projected to grow by 6% per year, indicating steady demand for skilled culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Madison, WI?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Madison varies according to experience and skill level, with entry-level to top earners showing a range of compensation.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Madison Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation since their work is primarily back-of-house in kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer interaction.
Sous Chef Salary in Madison vs. National Average
Across the United States, the average Sous Chef earns about $24.00 per hour, or about $49,920.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Madison earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $25.50 and yearly earnings around $53,040.00.
This higher earning potential is likely influenced by local demand and the culinary scene in Madison.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different wage opportunities for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Madison: $27.00 per hour
- Capitol Square: $28.50 per hour
Sous Chefs looking to maximize their earnings might target positions in the Capitol Square area where wages are the highest.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Madison?
Several key factors can impact how much a Sous Chef earns in Madison:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More seasoned Sous Chefs with strong leadership and technical skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and luxury resorts generally pay more than casual dining or fast food establishments.
- Location in the City: Establishments located in high-demand or prestigious areas such as Capitol Square may offer better compensation.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certifications or formal education can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Hours: Working night or holiday shifts might include differential pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Madison
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Madison, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Education Programs: Madison College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program providing essential hands-on and theoretical instruction. Additionally, the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a Food Science Program beneficial for aspiring Sous Chefs.
- Obtain Certifications: Pursuing certifications such as ServSafe Certification, crucial for food safety knowledge, and the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can bolster credentials.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start in entry-level positions such as line cook or kitchen assistant to develop skills and advance.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Madison
Prominent local employers actively seeking Sous Chefs include:
- The Edgewater
- L'Etoile Restaurant
- Graze
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Madison Work At
Sous Chefs often work in a variety of culinary establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often pay the highest salaries due to demanding culinary standards and clientele expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues typically offer competitive pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Salaries tend to be moderate but may come with other benefits like flexible hours.
- Catering Companies: Pay varies based on event size and company scale, sometimes with seasonal variability.
The type of establishment can greatly influence a Sous Chef's earnings and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison for Sous Chefs
Those interested in roles similar to Sous Chef may consider exploring related careers that build on similar skills and knowledge.
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, which often involve supervising kitchen operations and managing culinary teams.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Madison
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Sous Chefs working in Madison.
- Federal website for labor laws and regulations provides detailed information on employee rights, wage standards, and workplace safety.
- State of Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website offers resources specific to Wisconsin labor regulations.
- City of Madison official website includes information relevant to local employment standards and taxation.