Sous Chef Salary in Paterson, NJ
Sous Chefs in Paterson, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $22.00 per hour, which translates to about $880.00 per week, $3,813.33 per month, and $45,760.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Paterson is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth prospects in the culinary and hospitality industry within the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Paterson, NJ?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Paterson varies depending on experience and the establishment, but the following breakdown gives an overview of expected earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Paterson Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role primarily focuses on kitchen leadership and food preparation behind the scenes. Their earnings are mainly based on their salary or hourly wage.
Sous Chef Salary in Paterson vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $22.00 per hour, translating to about $45,760.00 per year.
The salary in Paterson aligns closely with the national average, reflecting a competitive wage for culinary professionals in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Paterson for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas to Paterson offer slightly different pay scales for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Paterson: $23.00 per hour
- Eastside Park: $24.00 per hour
These neighboring areas present opportunities for slightly higher wages, which can be attractive for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Paterson?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Paterson is influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with refined culinary skills and leadership abilities command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies generally offer better pay than casual dining or fast-food restaurants.
- Certification and Education: Culinary degrees and certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation can significantly impact earning potential.
- Geographical Location: Pay varies across different parts of Paterson and nearby areas, affected by cost of living and demand.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Paterson
Becoming a Sous Chef in Paterson involves a combination of education, training, and experience. Here are some steps that can help:
- Enroll in culinary programs such as the Passaic County Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Hudson County Community College Culinary Arts Institute for comprehensive kitchen training.
- Obtain food safety and management certifications like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification to meet health and safety requirements.
- Gain experience working in various kitchen roles; starting as a line cook or commis chef can build essential skills.
- Consider obtaining professional recognition such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification from the American Culinary Federation to enhance career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Paterson
Several establishments in Paterson regularly seek skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- The Brownstone
- Il Vicoletto
- Linwood Inn
- Madras Dosa
- Campagna Paterson
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Paterson Work At
Sous Chefs commonly work at various types of food establishments, each influencing their salary levels differently:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues typically pay higher salaries due to the complexity and quality expected.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments often offer better pay and benefits for Sous Chefs.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Pay may be moderate but opportunities exist for advancement.
- Catering Companies: Work can vary seasonally but sometimes offers competitive wages.
The diversity of these settings offers a range of employment options for Sous Chefs seeking different work environments or salary levels.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Paterson for Sous Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to Sous Chef, there are several similar roles worth considering that utilize culinary skills and kitchen management.
These include Head Chef, Kitchen Manager, and Chef positions, which relate closely to the Sous Chef role and can offer a similar or higher salary range.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Paterson
Sous Chefs should be informed about labor laws and tax responsibilities to ensure proper work conditions and compliance.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on employees' rights.
- Check the State of New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development website for state-specific labor standards and resources.
- Explore local rules on the Official website of the City of Paterson to learn about regulations affecting workers in Paterson.