Sous Chef Salary in Norfolk, VA
Sous Chefs in Norfolk, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $29.93 per hour, which equates to about $1,197.20 per week, $5,187.87 per month, and $62,254.40 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Norfolk is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities and demand for skilled culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Norfolk, VA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Norfolk can vary based on experience, skills, and specific employers. Below is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.36 | $934.40 | $4,045.33 | $48,588.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.93 | $1,197.20 | $5,187.87 | $62,254.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.36 | $1,534.40 | $6,641.07 | $79,788.80 |
Do Sous Chefs in Norfolk Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on food preparation and kitchen management rather than direct customer interaction. Their income mainly comes from their salary or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Norfolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $29.93 and an annual salary around $62,254.40.
The average salary for Sous Chefs in Norfolk matches the national average, reflecting competitive pay that aligns with the market standards across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norfolk for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas in and around Norfolk where Sous Chefs can earn higher wages include:
- Downtown: $31.25 per hour
- Ghent: $30.50 per hour
These neighborhoods offer a slightly higher pay rate due to either more upscale dining establishments or demand for highly skilled culinary staff.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Norfolk?
Several factors influence the salary of a Sous Chef in Norfolk:
- Experience and Expertise: More years in the role and specialized culinary skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, and large catering companies tend to pay better than casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding relevant certifications or culinary degrees enhances earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours Worked: Evening or weekend shifts might include premium pay rates.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Higher demand for skilled kitchen staff and living costs in Norfolk impact salary levels.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Norfolk
Becoming a Sous Chef requires a mix of education, practical experience, and certifications. Key steps include:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Institutions such as Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program and Culinary Institute of Virginia offer comprehensive training, providing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills essential for the role.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Programs like the ServSafe Certification are critical for maintaining health and safety standards in professional kitchens.
- Earn Professional Certifications: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates a high standard of culinary competency.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Most Sous Chefs start their careers as line cooks or cooks, working up to supervisory positions.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Norfolk
Notable employers actively hiring Sous Chefs in Norfolk include:
- Hilton Norfolk The Main
- Aramark
- Grain
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Norfolk Work At
Sous Chefs in Norfolk find employment in a variety of settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest salaries due to demanding culinary standards and upscale food preparation.
- Hotels and Resorts: Employ Sous Chefs to oversee kitchen operations for large-scale and diverse menus, often providing stable salaries with benefits.
- Catering Companies: May offer competitive pay depending on event scale and complexity.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically provide moderate pay but potential for growth.
The type of establishment greatly affects earnings, with higher-end venues generally offering superior compensation and advancement opportunities for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norfolk for Sous Chefs
If you are considering careers related to Sous Chef positions, here are a few similar roles worth exploring:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Partie roles, each with distinct responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Norfolk
Sous Chefs should be familiar with local and federal labor laws to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- For federal labor law details and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Information specific to employment laws and regulations in Virginia can be found at the official Virginia state website.