Sous Chef Salary in Raleigh, NC
Sous Chefs in Raleigh, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $26.25 per hour, which translates to about $1,050.00 per week, $4,550.00 per month, and $54,600.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Raleigh is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding culinary industry and increasing opportunities for skilled kitchen professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Raleigh, NC?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Raleigh can vary depending on experience and establishment, but here is an overview across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.25 | $1,050.00 | $4,550.00 | $54,600.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.93 | $1,317.20 | $5,688.53 | $68,494.40 |
Do Sous Chefs in Raleigh Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily focused in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their income is generally made up of their base salary or hourly wages only.
Sous Chef Salary in Raleigh vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $26.25 per hour, or about $54,600 per year.
In Raleigh, Sous Chefs earn approximately the same, with a mid-level hourly wage of $26.25 and an annual salary of $54,600, reflecting a competitive salary aligned with national standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Raleigh for Sous Chefs
When looking at nearby regions, some areas offer higher pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- North Hills: $31.25 per hour
- Downtown Raleigh: $30.00 per hour
Sous Chefs working in these neighborhoods may benefit from higher wages due to demand and the establishments located there.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Raleigh?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Sous Chef in Raleigh:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sous Chefs commanding leadership and culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies typically pay more than smaller casual dining venues.
- Specialized Skills and Certifications: Skills in various cuisines or holding certifications can boost earning potential.
- Shift Hours and Responsibilities: Working peak hours or taking on additional management tasks can lead to higher pay.
- Local Economic Factors: The cost of living and market demand in Raleigh influence wage levels.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Raleigh
Becoming a Sous Chef in Raleigh involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program and The Chef's Academy at Raleigh-Durham provide valuable training.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Certification for food safety and the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) Certification from the American Culinary Federation validate skills and improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Working in various kitchen roles helps develop necessary culinary and leadership skills.
- Develop Leadership and Time Management Skills: Crucial for managing kitchen staff and operations as a Sous Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Raleigh
Some prominent employers seeking skilled Sous Chefs in Raleigh include:
- North Carolina State University
- Compass Group
- Morrison Healthcare
- Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel
- Rocket Farm Restaurants
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Raleigh Work At
Sous Chefs in Raleigh work across various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Generally offer higher salaries due to the complexity and quality expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide structured career paths and competitive pay.
- Catering Companies: May offer varied schedules and unique culinary challenges.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Eateries: These establishments may pay less but offer different experiences and opportunities.
The caliber and scale of the establishment largely influence the salary and benefits a Sous Chef receives.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Raleigh for Sous Chefs
If you're interested in related roles to Sous Chef, here are some similar careers that might appeal to you:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, which share culinary leadership and management responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Raleigh
Sous Chefs in Raleigh should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper workplace conditions.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- North Carolina state labor information is available at the official North Carolina government site.
- The City of Raleigh website provides local employment resources and labor standards.