Sous Chef Salary in Orlando, FL
Sous Chefs in Orlando, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $29.20 per hour, which translates to about $1,168.00 per week, $5,061.33 per month, and $60,736.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Orlando is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding culinary market and increasing opportunities for chefs in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Orlando, FL?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Orlando can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.70 | $908.00 | $3,929.33 | $47,216.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.20 | $1,168.00 | $5,061.33 | $60,736.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.60 | $1,504.00 | $6,506.67 | $78,208.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Orlando Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are mostly salary-based.
Sous Chef Salary in Orlando vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $29.20 per hour, or about $60,736 annually.
Comparing this to Orlando’s average pay, Sous Chefs in the city earn about the national average hourly rate of $29.20 per hour and yearly salary of $60,736.
This parity suggests that Orlando offers competitive wages consistent with the broader market for Sous Chefs in the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Orlando for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas to Orlando offer slightly varied pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Orlando: $30.50 per hour
- Winter Park: $32.00 per hour
Sous Chefs seeking higher pay might consider positions in Downtown Orlando or Winter Park, where wages surpass the city average.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Orlando?
A variety of factors can affect how much a Sous Chef earns in Orlando:
- Experience and Expertise: More years in the kitchen and advanced culinary skills often lead to higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and resorts tend to offer better pay compared to casual dining venues.
- Size of the Kitchen Team: Larger kitchens may provide more responsibilities and higher pay.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in cuisines such as French, Italian, or Japanese can enhance earning potential.
- Certifications: Professional recognition like Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification can increase salary opportunities.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Orlando
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Orlando, one can take several important steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Valencia College Culinary Arts Program offer both hands-on training and theory essential for the role.
- Attend Renowned Culinary Schools: The Le Cordon Bleu Orlando is also an excellent option for a comprehensive culinary education.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is critical for kitchen management and safety compliance.
- Earn Professional Certification: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation enhances a Sous Chef’s credentials and advancement prospects.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Starting in roles such as line cook or commis chef helps build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Orlando
Several prominent employers in Orlando actively seek skilled Sous Chefs:
- Walt Disney Company
- Universal Orlando Resort
- Marriott International
- COREcruitment
- The Chef Agency
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Orlando Work At
Sous Chefs in Orlando commonly find employment in various culinary settings, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: High-end restaurants often offer the highest salaries and complex kitchen operations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large operations like those of Walt Disney Company provide stable work and competitive pay.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments might pay less but offer valuable experience.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Dynamic kitchens with variable demands sometimes pay premium rates for skilled Sous Chefs.
Pay varies significantly depending on the prestige and scale of the establishment, with luxury venues usually offering the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Orlando for Sous Chefs
If you’re interested in roles similar to Sous Chef, consider these related hospitality positions which also involve culinary expertise and kitchen leadership:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager, which offer paths for career growth in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Orlando
Sous Chefs should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment in Orlando.
- For federal employment laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Florida-specific labor regulations can be found at myflorida.com.
- Local employment resources and guidelines are available at orlando.gov.