Sous Chef Salary in Milwaukee, WI
Sous Chefs in Milwaukee, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $29.63 per hour, which equates to about $1,185.20 per week, $5,135.87 per month, and $61,630.40 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with expanding opportunities for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Milwaukee varies based on experience level and employer, but the following provides a clear breakdown:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.29 | $931.60 | $4,030.13 | $48,371.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.63 | $1,185.20 | $5,135.87 | $61,630.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.68 | $1,507.20 | $6,531.20 | $78,374.40 |
Do Sous Chefs in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not receive tips as part of their compensation because their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are mostly reflected in their hourly wage and salary.
Sous Chef Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
The national average pay for Sous Chefs stands at about $29.63 per hour or approximately $61,630.40 annually, which matches the average salary in Milwaukee. This parity suggests that Milwaukee offers competitive wages for Sous Chefs, aligning well with national compensation standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas with higher pay for Sous Chefs include:
- Oconomowoc: $31.37 per hour
- Appleton: $29.79 per hour
Oconomowoc offers a notably higher hourly wage for Sous Chefs compared to Milwaukee, presenting an attractive option for chefs willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Milwaukee?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Milwaukee can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with refined cooking techniques and leadership abilities often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining restaurants or larger hotels typically results in better pay than fast casual or casual dining venues.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary programs and professional certifications enhance credentials and can increase earning potential.
- Management Responsibilities: Sous Chefs who take on supervisory duties or operate larger kitchen teams may receive higher compensation.
- Local Market Demand: Higher demand within Milwaukee’s culinary scene influences salary ranges positively.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Milwaukee
To become a successful Sous Chef in Milwaukee, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program or Waukesha County Technical College Culinary Management Program to gain essential skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Secure credentials such as the ServSafe Certification, which is widely recognized in the industry.
- Earn Advanced Culinary Credentials: Pursue specialty certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) designation offered by the American Culinary Federation.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in kitchen roles such as line cook or commis chef and progressively advance through demonstrated expertise.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Focus on management, organization, and team coordination skills vital for the Sous Chef role.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Milwaukee
Leading employers actively recruiting Sous Chefs in Milwaukee include:
- Sanford Restaurant
- Ardent
- Harbor House
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Milwaukee Work At
Sous Chefs in Milwaukee typically work in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These settings usually offer the highest salaries due to the complexity and quality standards.
- Casual Dining: Pay rates may be moderate, but opportunities for advancement exist.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide stable employment and competitive wages, especially in larger operations.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically offer lower pay, but more regular hours and less pressure.
The type of establishment affects salary potential significantly, with fine dining and hotel kitchens generally paying more than casual venues.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Sous Chefs
For those interested in related hospitality careers, several positions offer similar responsibilities and salary ranges:
These careers include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles, all requiring advanced culinary and leadership skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Milwaukee
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Sous Chefs working in Milwaukee.
- For statewide regulations and resources, visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, see the U.S. Department of Labor website.