Sous Chef Salary in Philadelphia, PA
Sous Chefs in Philadelphia, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $29.77 per hour, which translates to about $1,190.80 per week, $5,160.13 per month, and $61,921.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Philadelphia is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding culinary market in the region with opportunities for advancement and employment growth.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Philadelphia, PA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Philadelphia varies based on experience, skill level, and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.46 | $898.40 | $3,896.27 | $46,580.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.77 | $1,190.80 | $5,160.13 | $61,921.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.47 | $1,578.80 | $6,828.53 | $81,945.60 |
Do Sous Chefs in Philadelphia Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their roles focus primarily on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their income relies mostly on their salary and wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Philadelphia vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of approximately $29.77 per hour, which corresponds to about $61,921.60 annually.
In Philadelphia, the average hourly wage and yearly salary for Sous Chefs match the national average, indicating salaries in this city are competitive within the national culinary landscape.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Philadelphia for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- King of Prussia: $34.17 per hour
- Doylestown: $32.58 per hour
These nearby areas may offer higher salaries than Philadelphia itself, making them attractive for Sous Chefs seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Philadelphia?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Philadelphia is influenced by several important factors.
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experience and advanced kitchen skills generally lead to higher pay.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Working in high-end restaurants or prestigious hotels tends to offer better compensation compared to smaller casual dining settings.
- Management Responsibilities: Sous Chefs with supervisory or broader kitchen management duties often command higher wages.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary training or certifications can increase earning potential.
- Reputation and Location: Being employed in popular culinary hubs or renowned establishments can impact salary positively.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Philadelphia
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Philadelphia, consider these key steps:
- Complete culinary education programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College or earn a degree like the Culinary Arts Associate Degree at Community College of Philadelphia.
- Obtain important food safety credentials, including the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification.
- Advance your professional skills and recognition by achieving certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation.
- Gain practical kitchen experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level kitchen roles to build your expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Philadelphia
Several notable employers in Philadelphia are actively seeking qualified Sous Chefs, including:
- Garces Group
- Starr Restaurants
- Talula's Garden
- Four Seasons
- Compass Group
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Philadelphia Work At
Sous Chefs in Philadelphia typically find work in a variety of culinary establishments, affecting their work environment and salary.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer the highest pay due to the complexity and quality standards of cuisine.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide stable employment and competitive wages with opportunities for career growth.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer lower pay but can provide valuable experience and flexible schedules.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: These can offer varied opportunities depending on client and event scale.
The type of establishment strongly influences the salary scale, with upscale dining and major hospitality venues offering the best earnings for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Philadelphia for Sous Chefs
If you're considering careers related to Sous Chef, here are some comparable roles that share similar skills and responsibilities.
These positions include Chef de Cuisine, Head Chef, and Executive Chef, each involving leadership and specialized culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Philadelphia
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Sous Chefs working in Philadelphia.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Pennsylvania-specific labor laws and guidelines, consult the Pennsylvania state government website.