Sous Chef Salary in Norman, OK
Sous Chefs in Norman, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $23.50 per hour, which translates to about $940.00 per week, $4,073.33 per month, and $48,880.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Norman is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook in job opportunities and career growth within the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Norman, OK?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Norman varies depending on experience and skill level, but here is an overview of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.00 | $1,160.00 | $5,006.67 | $60,320.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Norman Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their primary role is in kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income is mostly derived from salary rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Norman vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $25.00 per hour, equivalent to approximately $52,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Norman earn slightly less on average, with a typical hourly wage of $23.50 and annual earnings of around $48,880.
This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and market demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norman for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Sous Chefs include:
- Downtown Norman: $25.00 per hour
- University Area: $24.50 per hour
Those working in these neighborhoods may benefit from slightly higher wages compared to other parts of Norman.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Norman?
Several key factors influence a Sous Chef’s salary in Norman:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary and leadership skills tend to earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels generally pay more than casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications and formal training can provide leverage for better pay.
- Shift Hours and Responsibilities: Working evening or weekend shifts, or overseeing larger teams, can impact compensation.
- Local Market Demand: The growth and demand for culinary professionals in Norman play a role in salary levels.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Norman
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Norman, one should consider the following steps:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts program at Francis Tuttle Technology Center in nearby Oklahoma City offer valuable culinary skills focusing on food preparation and kitchen management.
- Pursue an Associate Degree: The Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology provides an Associate in Applied Science degree in Culinary Arts with hands-on experience.
- Get Food Handler’s License: Required for food service workers; obtainable online for less than $30.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: Certifications from the American Culinary Federation (ACF) can enhance your credentials and career prospects.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Work as a line cook or commis chef to build the necessary skills before advancing to Sous Chef roles.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Norman
Some of the notable employers looking for Sous Chefs in Norman include:
- Embassy Suites
- Norman Regional Health
- Upper Crust Food Service
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Norman Work At
Sous Chefs in Norman typically work in various establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate pay based on kitchen size and menu complexity.
- Fast Casual Eateries: Usually more fast-paced environments with potentially lower pay but opportunities for growth.
- Hotels and Resorts: Tend to offer higher salaries and may provide additional benefits and advancement pathways.
- Catering and Event Services: Competitive pay can be expected, often aligned with event scale and client budget.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Sous Chef's salary, with upscale venues often offering the highest compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norman for Sous Chefs
If you’re interested in careers related to Sous Chef, consider positions such as:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles which share overlapping skills and responsibilities with the Sous Chef position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Norman
Understanding labor laws and taxes is essential for Sous Chefs to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for details on wage laws, overtime, and workplace rights.
- The State of Oklahoma's official website provides information on state-specific labor laws and resources.