Sous Chef Salary in Montgomery, AL
Sous Chefs in Montgomery, AL, 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 demand for Sous Chefs in Montgomery is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Montgomery, AL?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Montgomery varies with experience and employer type. Below is an overview of typical wages at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.80 | $792.00 | $3,432.00 | $41,184.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Montgomery Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role primarily focuses on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer interaction.
Sous Chef Salary in Montgomery vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $25.00 per hour, translating to about $52,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Montgomery earn slightly less on average, with an hourly wage of $22.00 and an annual salary of about $45,760.00.
This difference can be attributed to factors such as local cost of living and regional industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Montgomery for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Sous Chefs, with some regions paying higher wages.
- Downtown Montgomery: $23.50 per hour
- East Montgomery: $24.00 per hour
Sous Chefs in East Montgomery tend to earn slightly more compared to those in Downtown Montgomery, reflecting localized demand and establishment types.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Montgomery?
Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with refined culinary skills and leadership abilities typically command higher salaries.
Type of Establishment: Salaries vary depending on whether the Sous Chef works in a fine dining restaurant, casual eatery, hotel, or catering service.
Certifications and Education: Culinary degrees and certifications, such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC), can enhance earning potential.
Work Hours and Shifts: Working evening or weekend shifts may come with additional pay or overtime.
Local Economic Factors: Montgomery’s cost of living and hospitality industry demand play roles in wage levels.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Montgomery
Becoming a Sous Chef in Montgomery involves a combination of education, certification, and hands-on experience.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Consider programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Trenholm State Community College or Auburn University at Montgomery, which provide training in culinary techniques and hospitality management.
- Obtain Food Safety and Culinary Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe and the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential are highly valued.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start in roles like line cook or kitchen assistant to develop skills before advancing.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Montgomery
Some notable employers in Montgomery looking for skilled Sous Chefs include:
- Compass Group
- The Country Club of Mobile
- McDonald's
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Montgomery Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment in various types of food service establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer higher salaries and require advanced culinary skills.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: Provide opportunities but usually with moderate pay levels.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer competitive wages along with additional benefits.
- Catering Companies and Country Clubs: Specialized venues that value experienced culinary professionals.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary, with upscale venues generally compensating better than casual spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Montgomery for Sous Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to Sous Chef, here are a few similar positions you might consider.
These include roles like Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager, each with different scopes of responsibility and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Montgomery
Understanding federal and state labor laws is essential for Sous Chefs to ensure fair work conditions and proper tax compliance.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for detailed federal regulations on wages, hours, and workers' rights.
- Check the Alabama state government site for state-specific employment laws and resources.