Sous Chef Salary in Modesto, CA
Sous Chefs in Modesto, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $22.24 per hour, which translates to about $889.60 per week, $3,854.93 per month, and $46,259.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Modesto is growing steadily at about 6% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increased opportunities within the culinary and hospitality industries.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Modesto, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Modesto varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a general breakdown of earnings based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.25 | $450.00 | $1,950.00 | $23,400.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.24 | $889.60 | $3,854.93 | $46,259.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.75 | $1,350.00 | $5,850.00 | $70,200.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Modesto Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily in kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Their income typically comes from their salary or wages alone.
Sous Chef Salary in Modesto vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $20.76 per hour, translating to about $43,180.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Modesto earn slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $22.24 and an annual salary of $46,259.20. This reflects the local cost of living and demand for skilled culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Modesto for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas with high Sous Chef salaries include:
- Del Rio: $22.24 per hour
Those willing to commute to Del Rio from Modesto might find competitive wages similar to local salary levels.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Modesto?
Several factors can impact how much a Sous Chef earns in Modesto:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with strong leadership and cooking skills can command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often pays more than casual dining or smaller eateries.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary training and certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential can increase earning potential.
- Location within the City: Certain neighborhoods or areas within Modesto may offer higher wages based on restaurant clientele and competition.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Modesto
Becoming a Sous Chef requires a combination of training, experience, and often formal education:
- Complete Culinary Training: Engage in programs like the Modesto Junior College Culinary Arts Program, which offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management, preparing students for roles like Sous Chef.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Many Sous Chefs begin their careers as line cooks or kitchen assistants, working their way up by mastering kitchen operations.
- Obtain Certification: Earning the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential through the American Culinary Federation validates your skills and experience.
- Develop Key Skills: Effective kitchen management, leadership, and knowledge of food safety practices are vital.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Modesto
Some of the top employers in the Modesto area looking for qualified Sous Chefs include:
- Del Rio Country Club
- Local fine dining restaurants
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Modesto Work At
Sous Chefs are typically employed in a variety of settings within the culinary industry:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These locations usually offer higher salaries reflecting the complexity and quality of food preparation.
- Hotels and Resorts: These often provide competitive wages and benefits due to their scale and service level.
- Country Clubs and Private Clubs: Establishments like the Del Rio Country Club often hire Sous Chefs to maintain high culinary standards.
- Casual Dining and Fast Casual: While these may pay lower wages, they can provide valuable experience and opportunities for advancement.
Establishment type can significantly affect the compensation that Sous Chefs receive.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Modesto for Sous Chefs
If you're interested in similar culinary careers, consider these related roles that share skills and work environment traits with Sous Chefs:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, each involving leadership and culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Modesto
Sous Chefs should be aware of both federal and state labor regulations impacting their employment conditions and taxation, including minimum wage, overtime rules, and tax obligations.
- Information on federal labor standards can be found at the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- California-specific employment data and resources are available at the Employment Development Department of California.