Sous Chef Salary in Oak Park, IL
Sous Chefs in Oak Park, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $26.59 per hour, which translates to about $1,063.60 per week, $4,608.93 per month, and $55,307.20 per year.
The job market for Sous Chefs in Oak Park is experiencing positive growth of around 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and opportunities in the culinary field locally.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Oak Park, IL?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Oak Park varies with experience and skill level. Here's a breakdown of earnings by expertise:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.75 | $790.00 | $3,416.67 | $41,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.59 | $1,063.60 | $4,608.93 | $55,307.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,066.67 | $72,800.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Oak Park Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily kitchen-based and not customer-facing. Their earnings usually come from salary and wages without tip income.
Sous Chef Salary in Oak Park vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $31.00 per hour or around $64,480 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Oak Park earn slightly less hourly at $26.59 per hour and $55,307.20 annually.
This difference may be explained by local cost of living factors and employer types common in Oak Park.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oak Park for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Oak Park: $28.00 per hour
- Oak Park Arts District: $27.50 per hour
These neighborhoods provide opportunities for Sous Chefs seeking higher wages close to Oak Park's culinary centers.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Oak Park?
Several factors contribute to salary differences for Sous Chefs in Oak Park:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More skilled and experienced Sous Chefs tend to command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants often pay more compared to casual or fast casual places.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials such as culinary diplomas or the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Work Hours: Night or weekend shifts sometimes offer premium pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Oak Park’s economic climate and demand for culinary professionals impact wages.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Oak Park
Becoming a Sous Chef in Oak Park involves a combination of education, certification, and hands-on experience:
- Undertake Culinary Education: Programs like the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques.
- Earn Relevant Certifications: The ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of food safety standards, while the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) enhances professional credibility.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in kitchens in roles such as line cook or commis chef to build skills.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Sous Chefs often supervise kitchen staff, so management skills are valuable.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Oak Park
Several notable employers in Oak Park frequently seek qualified Sous Chefs:
- Levy Restaurants
- Brookdale Oak Park
- Compass Group
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Oak Park Work At
Sous Chefs find employment in diverse culinary settings across Oak Park:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to refined cuisine and larger kitchens.
- Casual Dining: Provide steady work and moderate salaries with varied menus.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer competitive pay with additional benefits.
- Catering Companies: Sometimes provide opportunities for flexible schedules and varied work environments.
The nature and prestige of the establishment play important roles in salary levels for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oak Park for Sous Chefs
If you are exploring careers similar to that of a Sous Chef, consider these related roles:
These include the Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Executive Chef roles, all closely related while offering different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Oak Park
Sous Chefs should familiarize themselves with relevant local and federal labor laws to ensure proper work conditions and compliance.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for information on employment standards and workers' rights.
- Visit the State of Illinois official website for details on state-specific labor laws and regulations.