Sous Chef Salary in New Bedford, MA
Sous Chefs in New Bedford, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $26.85 per hour, which translates to about $1,074.00 per week, $4,654.00 per month, and $55,848.00 per year.
The job demand for Sous Chefs in New Bedford is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary field within the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in New Bedford, MA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in New Bedford varies based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.85 | $1,074.00 | $4,654.00 | $55,848.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.50 | $1,380.00 | $5,980.00 | $69,600.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in New Bedford 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 income mainly comes from their salary or hourly wage.
Sous Chef Salary in New Bedford vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $24.04 per hour, which translates to roughly $50,003.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in New Bedford earn higher wages, with an average hourly pay of $26.85 and an annual salary of $55,848.00. This increase reflects the local demand for skilled culinary professionals and the cost of living in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Bedford for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown: $27.50 per hour
- Waterfront: $28.00 per hour
These higher-paying areas could be attractive options for Sous Chefs looking to maximize their income within commuting distance of New Bedford.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in New Bedford?
Several factors contribute to the variation in salary for Sous Chefs in New Bedford:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary skills tend to earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and fine dining venues usually pay more than casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding relevant certifications like ServSafe can improve pay prospects.
- Responsibilities: Additional duties such as staff management or menu development may increase earnings.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: The economic environment of New Bedford affects wage levels.
How To Become a Sous Chef in New Bedford
Becoming a Sous Chef in New Bedford involves several key steps to build the right skills and credentials:
- Enrollment in Culinary Education Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School offer certifications including ServSafe, First Aid/CPR, OSHA 10, and Allergy Awareness, which prepare students for culinary careers.
- Obtaining Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe and OSHA 10 demonstrate compliance with health and safety standards.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Many start as line cooks or kitchen assistants to learn kitchen operations before moving up.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Effective kitchen management and communication are critical skills for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in New Bedford
The following establishments are known for hiring skilled Sous Chefs in the New Bedford area:
- The Black Whale
- The Seafarer
- The Harborside Bistro
Establishments That Sous Chefs in New Bedford Work At
Sous Chefs are employed across a variety of food service environments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often provide the highest salaries due to complex menus and higher expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations offer competitive wages and benefits but may require longer hours.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually offer moderate pay but can provide valuable experience.
- Catering Services and Event Venues: Often seasonal with varied pay depending on events and clientele.
The type of establishment influences the Sous Chef's salary significantly, with fine dining and luxury venues generally offering more lucrative compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Bedford for Sous Chefs
Those interested in similar roles to a Sous Chef might consider the following related culinary careers:
Included are Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, which share similar culinary and managerial responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in New Bedford
Sous Chefs should be informed about labor laws and taxation relevant to their employment in Massachusetts.
- Useful information on employment standards and labor rights can be found on the Massachusetts government website.
- For federal regulations regarding labor laws and employee rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.