Sous Chef Salary in Manchester, NH
Sous Chefs in Manchester, NH, in 2025, earn approximately $25.95 per hour, which translates to about $1,038.00 per week, $4,498.00 per month, and $53,976.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Manchester is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job market for culinary professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Manchester, NH?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Manchester varies by experience and employer type. Here's a breakdown of average compensation at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.00 | $1,160.00 | $5,006.67 | $60,320.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Manchester Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips, as their role focuses on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come primarily from their salary or hourly wage.
Sous Chef Salary in Manchester vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for a Sous Chef is approximately $25.95 per hour with an annual salary around $53,976.
In comparison, Sous Chefs in Manchester earn very close to the national average, making the city competitive for culinary professionals seeking stable wages.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Manchester for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer higher pay for Sous Chefs, including:
- Bedford: $36.44 per hour
- Salem: $36.13 per hour
Sous Chefs commuting to Bedford or Salem may find significantly higher salaries than in Manchester, reflecting the local demand and economic variety.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Manchester?
Various factors can impact the earning potential of a Sous Chef in Manchester:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Seasoned Sous Chefs with advanced technical skills and leadership experience tend to negotiate higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resort kitchens generally offers better compensation than casual dining venues.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Culinary degrees and professional certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) add value.
- Restaurant Size and Location: Larger, busier establishments with higher revenue often pay more.
- Shift and Work Hours: Night shifts or holiday schedules may include additional pay incentives.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Manchester
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Manchester, consider these key steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Local institutions, such as Southern New Hampshire University, offer a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Business focused on management skills in the hospitality field.
- Technical Culinary Training: The University of New Hampshire provides an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts and Nutrition, combining practical and theoretical culinary instruction.
- Professional Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Certification ensures compliance with food safety standards. The American Culinary Federation’s Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential establishes recognized competence.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles like Line Cook or Prep Cook to build foundational skills prior to advancing.
- Networking and Internships: Engage with local culinary communities and seek opportunities to train under experienced chefs.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Manchester
Several well-known dining establishments in Manchester hire skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- The Common Man
- Bedford Village Inn
- Hanover Street Chophouse
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Manchester Work At
Sous Chefs commonly find positions in a range of foodservice venues that influence their salary level:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often pay the highest wages due to demanding culinary standards and service expectations.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: Provide stable employment and may offer benefits along with competitive salaries.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer lower pay but can provide valuable experience for career growth.
- Catering Companies and Banquet Facilities: Flexibility in schedules and event-driven work can affect earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Manchester for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in career paths related to being a Sous Chef, consider exploring opportunities such as:
These roles include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, which bear some similarity and may offer different compensation levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Manchester
Sous Chefs should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax regulations governing their employment:
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for detailed federal labor standards and worker rights.
- For state-specific labor rules, the New Hampshire official government website offers information on wage laws, employment practices, and resources.