Sous Chef Salary in Ontario, CA
Sous Chefs in Ontario, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $24.04 per hour, which translates to about $961.60 per week, $4,166.93 per month, and $50,003.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Ontario is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding job market for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Ontario, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Ontario varies depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| 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) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,166.93 | $50,003.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.00 | $1,160.00 | $5,006.67 | $60,320.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Ontario Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is usually behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is primarily based on their salary rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Ontario vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $27.00 per hour and about $56,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Ontario earn slightly less, making about $24.04 per hour and $50,003.20 annually.
This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living variations between Ontario and other parts of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Ontario for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Sous Chefs as well:
- Area 1: $25.00 per hour
- Area 2: $26.50 per hour
Working in these neighboring regions can offer slightly higher pay than in Ontario itself.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Ontario?
Several factors affect the earning potential of Sous Chefs in Ontario:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs with refined skills earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to offer better compensation compared to casual dining spots.
- Specialized Skills: Proficiency in specific cuisines or culinary techniques can boost pay.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications can increase salary prospects.
- Location and Demand: Working in higher-demand areas or larger cities nearby can influence pay rates.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Ontario
Becoming a Sous Chef in Ontario involves several steps:
- Complete a Culinary Arts Program: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Chaffey College in Rancho Cucamonga provide hands-on training and theoretical knowledge essential for aspiring chefs.
- Consider Advanced Culinary Schools: Institutions such as Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Pasadena offer renowned programs focusing on classical and modern cooking techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety practices, often required by employers in California.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Earning credentials such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation can enhance career prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens, starting as a line cook or chef de partie, helps build essential skills required for the Sous Chef role.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Ontario
Key employers looking for talented Sous Chefs in Ontario include:
- Topgolf
- Marriott International
- Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Ontario Work At
Sous Chefs typically find work in a variety of culinary settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady hours but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Focus on efficiency, usually resulting in lower salaries compared to fine dining.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Hotels: Provide higher salaries reflecting the skills and demands of gourmet food preparation.
- Catering and Banquet Services: Offer diverse experiences, sometimes with fluctuating pay based on event volume.
The type of establishment significantly influences the salary level of Sous Chefs, with those in upscale restaurants or hotels generally earning the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Ontario for Sous Chefs
Those interested in similar career paths might consider related culinary roles such as:
This includes positions like Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager which share overlapping skills and career trajectories.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Ontario
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Sous Chefs in Ontario.
- More information on federal regulations can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor.
- California-specific labor laws and workplace regulations are detailed on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.