Sous Chef Salary in Nashville, TN
Sous Chefs in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $29.69 per hour, which translates to about $1,187.60 per week, $5,146.27 per month, and $61,755.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Nashville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy increase in culinary and hospitality opportunities across the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Nashville can vary based on experience and workplace, but below is an overview of typical earnings across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.89 | $955.60 | $4,140.53 | $49,627.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.69 | $1,187.60 | $5,146.27 | $61,755.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.89 | $1,475.60 | $6,379.73 | $76,699.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Nashville Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is mostly derived from salary or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an hourly average of about $29.69, with an annual salary around $61,755.20.
Sous Chefs in Nashville align closely with the national figures, indicating the city offers competitive wages in line with the broader market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Sous Chefs
Sous Chefs looking to work near Nashville can find somewhat higher pay rates in nearby locations:
- Franklin: $33.02 per hour
- Maryville: $32.31 per hour
Choosing to work in these areas may offer increased earning potential relative to Nashville itself.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Nashville?
A Sous Chef's salary in Nashville can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Those with extensive kitchen experience and specialized culinary skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels typically offer better pay than casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Food safety certifications and culinary degrees can improve salary prospects significantly.
- Leadership Responsibilities: A Sous Chef who takes on additional managerial duties may receive increased compensation.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working nights, weekends, or holidays can sometimes offer differential pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Nashville
Becoming a successful Sous Chef in Nashville generally involves a combination of education, certification, and practical experience:
- Culinary Education: Enrolling in programs such as the Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers an Associate of Applied Science degree, can provide essential knowledge and hands-on training.
- Advanced Culinary Training: The Art Institute of Tennessee – Nashville Culinary Arts Program provides comprehensive curriculum focusing on both classical techniques and modern culinary trends.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is often a requirement to ensure knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.
- Professional Certification: Earning the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential by the American Culinary Federation demonstrates skills, knowledge, and professionalism.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Nashville
Popular employers in Nashville seeking skilled Sous Chefs include:
- Evelyn's
- Luxury Hotel
- True Food Kitchen
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Nashville Work At
Sous Chefs in Nashville generally work in a variety of culinary environments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offering higher salaries due to elevated culinary standards and customer expectations.
- Luxury Hotels: Providing opportunities for advancement and better pay.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Lower average pay but varying work environments.
- Catering Companies and Banquet Halls: Experience here may boost versatility and increase earnings.
The type of establishment can significantly affect a Sous Chef's earnings, with prestigious venues usually offering increased compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in roles related to Sous Chef, consider exploring the following related careers:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager positions, which share related responsibilities and salary ranges in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Nashville
Sous Chefs in Nashville should stay informed about local labor laws and taxation requirements to ensure compliance and proper workplace standards.
- Information about Tennessee state labor laws can be found at the official Tennessee government website.
- Federal workplace regulations and labor standards are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.