Sous Chef Salary in Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Sous Chefs in Rancho Cucamonga, CA in 2025 earn approximately $25.78 per hour, translating to about $1,031.20 per week, $4,468.53 per month, and $53,622.40 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Rancho Cucamonga is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Rancho Cucamonga, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Rancho Cucamonga varies by experience and employer. Below is a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.79 | $871.60 | $3,780.53 | $45,366.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.78 | $1,031.20 | $4,468.53 | $53,622.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.50 | $1,220.00 | $5,286.67 | $63,440.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Rancho Cucamonga Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their main responsibilities are in kitchen management and food preparation, rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are primarily based on salary or wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Rancho Cucamonga vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $19.67 per hour, which is approximately $40,913.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Rancho Cucamonga earn notably more, with an average hourly wage of $25.78 and a yearly salary of $53,622.40.
This difference can be influenced by the region’s higher cost of living and demand for skilled culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rancho Cucamonga for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas with competitive pay for Sous Chefs include:
- Victoria Gardens: $27.00 per hour
- Downtown Rancho Cucamonga: $26.50 per hour
Sous Chefs working in Victoria Gardens may enjoy slightly higher pay compared to other nearby areas, reflecting the area's commercial activity and dining venues.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Rancho Cucamonga?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Sous Chef in Rancho Cucamonga:
- Experience and Skill Level: More years of experience and specialized culinary skills often lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining restaurants, hotels, or resorts generally offers better compensation compared to casual or fast-casual venues.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications and degrees can enhance salary prospects.
- Responsibility Scope: A Sous Chef managing larger teams or multiple kitchens may command higher wages.
- Local Market Demand: Economic factors and competition within the Rancho Cucamonga area can affect pay rates.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Rancho Cucamonga
Embarking on a career as a Sous Chef in Rancho Cucamonga involves several key steps:
- Education: Enroll in culinary arts programs such as those offered by Chaffey College Culinary Arts Program or Collins College of Hospitality Management at Cal Poly Pomona to gain both theoretical and practical knowledge.
- Certifications: Acquire certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate a commitment to food safety standards.
- Advanced Certification: Pursuing the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can significantly boost professional standing.
- Experience: Gain hands-on experience working in various kitchen roles to build the skills needed for Sous Chef responsibilities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Rancho Cucamonga
Some of the prominent employers looking for Sous Chefs in the area include:
- Yard House
- Seasons 52
- Compass Group
- Red Hill Country Club
- Rock & Brews
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Rancho Cucamonga Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment in a diverse range of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments tend to pay the highest salaries due to the skill and precision required.
- Casual Dining: Pay is generally moderate but can vary based on the restaurant’s size and prestige.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often offer competitive wages and benefits, especially in high-end venues.
- Catering Companies: These may provide seasonal or event-based employment with varying pay scales.
The type of establishment significantly impacts earnings, responsibilities, and growth opportunities for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rancho Cucamonga for Sous Chefs
If you're considering roles similar to Sous Chef in Rancho Cucamonga, here are a few related careers you might explore:
Similar roles include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager, each offering unique responsibilities and variations in salary.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Rancho Cucamonga
Sous Chefs in Rancho Cucamonga should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations at the federal, state, and local levels.
- Visit the Federal U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor regulations.
- For California-specific labor laws, consult the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- The official City of Rancho Cucamonga website provides local regulations and resources pertinent to workers and employers.