Sous Chef Salary in Phoenix, AZ
Sous Chefs in Phoenix, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $30.79 per hour, which translates to about $1,231.60 per week, $5,336.93 per month, and $64,043.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Phoenix is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary sector.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Phoenix, AZ?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Phoenix varies based on experience, skills, and the establishment. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.07 | $882.80 | $3,822.67 | $45,993.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.79 | $1,231.60 | $5,336.93 | $64,043.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.40 | $1,576.00 | $6,849.33 | $82,052.80 |
Do Sous Chefs in Phoenix Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on food preparation, kitchen management, and support rather than direct customer interaction. Their income typically consists solely of their salary.
Sous Chef Salary in Phoenix, AZ vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $30.79 per hour or about $64,043.20 per year.
In Phoenix, the average hourly and annual salaries for Sous Chefs are essentially on par with the national figures, reflecting competitive compensation packages compared to other regions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Phoenix for Sous Chefs
Nearby cities offer slightly varying salaries for Sous Chefs:
- Scottsdale: $31.92 per hour
- Tempe: $30.86 per hour
Sous Chefs in Scottsdale can expect marginally higher pay, possibly due to upscale dining establishments and higher cost of living.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Phoenix?
A variety of factors influence how much a Sous Chef can earn in Phoenix:
- Experience and Skill Level: Extensive culinary experience and advanced skills in kitchen management can lead to higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end restaurants, hotels, or resorts often offers better pay compared to casual dining or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications: Holding culinary certifications or specialized training can impact salary positively.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger or more prestigious establishments typically pay more due to operational scale and clientele.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may come with differential pay rates.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Phoenix
Becoming a Sous Chef requires a combination of education, experience, and certifications.
Education: Consider enrolling in programs such as the Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Arizona Culinary Institute to gain foundational and advanced culinary skills with practical training.
Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, which is nationally recognized and often required for kitchen management roles, is essential.
The prestigious Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation credential demonstrates professional competence and significantly enhances career prospects.
Work Experience: Gaining hands-on experience in kitchen operations and progressively responsible culinary roles is critical.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Phoenix
Some of the leading organizations hiring Sous Chefs in Phoenix include:
- Marriott International
- Fox Restaurant Concepts
- Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Phoenix Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment in a wide range of culinary establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These places generally offer higher salaries due to complex menus and upscale service.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large-scale operations often provide stable jobs with comprehensive benefits and higher pay.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: These may offer lower salaries but greater entry-level opportunities.
- Catering Services: The pay can vary significantly based on events and clientele.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the earning potential and career growth opportunities for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Phoenix for Sous Chefs
For those exploring similar career options within the culinary field, here are a few roles related to Sous Chef:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager — roles that share similar skill sets and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Phoenix
Sous Chefs in Phoenix should understand local and federal labor laws as well as taxation policies.
- For state regulations and resources, visit the Official website of the State of Arizona.
- For federal labor laws and standards, you can check the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.