Sous Chef Salary in Pomona, CA
Sous Chefs in Pomona, CA, in 2025, make approximately $34.26 per hour, which is about $1,370.40 per week, $5,938.40 per month, and $71,260.80 per year.
The employment outlook for Sous Chefs in Pomona is positive, with the job demand expected to grow at a rate of 6% per year, indicating a healthy expansion within the culinary industry in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Pomona, CA?
Sous Chef salaries in Pomona vary based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical pay ranges based on experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.75 | $1,150.00 | $4,983.33 | $59,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $34.26 | $1,370.40 | $5,938.40 | $71,260.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.50 | $1,700.00 | $7,366.67 | $88,400.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Pomona Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in kitchen management and food preparation. Their compensation mainly comes from their salary rather than tips.
Sous Chef Salary in Pomona vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly wage for Sous Chefs is around $31.25, with an annual salary averaging $65,000.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Pomona earn a higher wage of about $34.26 per hour and an annual salary of approximately $71,260.80. This reflects Pomona's competitive culinary market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pomona for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly higher salaries for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Pomona: $35.50 per hour
- North Pomona: $36.00 per hour
These surrounding neighborhoods provide some of the highest remuneration for Sous Chefs near Pomona.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Pomona?
Several factors can affect the salary of a Sous Chef in Pomona:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs commanding advanced culinary and managerial skills tend to earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and luxury hotels usually offer better salaries compared to casual dining or fast-food places.
- Certifications: Holding professional culinary certifications can impact earnings positively.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays can sometimes include pay differentials.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Pomona
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Pomona, consider these steps:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Mt. San Antonio College or Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Pasadena which offer comprehensive culinary training.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification are essential for kitchen management roles.
- Gain Professional Certification: Obtaining credentials such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation boosts credibility and career prospects.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start with roles such as line cook or culinary apprentice to develop hands-on skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Pomona
Some top employers hiring Sous Chefs in Pomona include:
- Marriott International
- Morrison Healthcare
- Mt. San Antonio Gardens
- Bon Appétit
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Pomona Work At
Sous Chefs can be found working in a variety of establishments including:
- Fine dining restaurants: Typically offer higher wages reflecting skill demands and clientele.
- Hotels and resorts: Often provide comprehensive benefits and higher salaries.
- Catering companies: Require adaptive skills and can influence pay depending on event scale.
- Casual and fast-casual restaurants: Generally have lower pay scales but may offer steadier work hours.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in determining a Sous Chef’s earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pomona for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to the Sous Chef role, here are some similar positions to explore:
These include roles such as Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager, which share similar skill sets and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Pomona
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Sous Chefs working in Pomona. Key resources include: