Sous Chef Salary in Richmond, VA
Sous Chefs in Richmond, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $26.20 per hour, which translates to about $1,048.00 per week, $4,541.33 per month, and $54,496.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Richmond is growing at a healthy rate of 5% per year, signaling a positive outlook and expanding opportunities for culinary professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Richmond, VA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Richmond varies depending on experience and employer. Below is an overview of wages across different levels of expertise within the city.
| 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) | $26.20 | $1,048.00 | $4,541.33 | $54,496.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.00 | $1,320.00 | $5,720.00 | $68,640.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Richmond Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is generally behind the scenes supporting the kitchen operations. Their earnings are usually based on salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Richmond vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $30.60, equating to approximately $63,648 per year.
Compared to these figures, Sous Chefs in Richmond earn somewhat less, with an average hourly wage of $26.20 and yearly earnings around $54,496.
This difference can be influenced by Richmond’s cost of living and local demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Richmond for Sous Chefs
Within the Richmond area, some neighborhoods offer higher pay for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Richmond: $28.00 per hour
- The Fan District: $27.50 per hour
These areas may present advantageous opportunities for Sous Chefs seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Richmond?
Several important factors affect the salary potential of a Sous Chef in Richmond:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced cooking techniques and kitchen management skills command higher pay.
- Type and Size of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often offer elevated salaries compared to casual or fast casual dining.
- Certifications and Education: Holding recognized culinary certifications and formal education can enhance earning power.
- Kitchen Role and Responsibilities: Additional duties such as inventory control, staff supervision, or menu planning usually lead to greater compensation.
- Local Market Demand: Wage levels adjust according to regional demand for culinary talent and competitive factors among employers.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Richmond
Launching a career as a Sous Chef in Richmond typically involves the following key steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Programs such as the J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Culinary Arts Program offer an Associate of Applied Science degree with practical and theoretical culinary training.
- Enhance Cooking Skills: Coursework and workshops at the University of Richmond's Culinary Arts Program can help refine culinary techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The nationally recognized ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is essential for understanding health and safety standards in professional kitchens.
- Earn Professional Certification: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation credential is a respected certification demonstrating professional capability and experience.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen roles and advancing to cook or line cook positions helps build the necessary skills and understanding.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Richmond
Richmond boasts several esteemed establishments actively seeking talented Sous Chefs, including:
- Lemaire
- The Roosevelt
- Heritage
- Saison
- The Jasper
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Richmond Work At
Sous Chefs in Richmond find opportunities in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues tend to offer higher wages due to the elevated skill level and complexity of cuisine.
- Hotels and Resorts: Working in upscale hotels can come with competitive pay and benefits.
- Catering Companies: These often pay well for skilled kitchen supervisors who can handle large-scale event preparations.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically, pay can be moderate but offers experience and growth potential in bustling environments.
The type and prestige of the establishment impact both the salary and working conditions for a Sous Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Richmond for Sous Chefs
If you’re exploring careers related to being a Sous Chef, consider these similar roles that also offer culinary opportunities:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, all of which share related responsibilities and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Richmond
Understanding the applicable labor laws and tax regulations is important for Sous Chefs to manage their employment rights and compliance.
- Virginia state labor laws, including wage and hour rules, can be found at the official Virginia government website.
- For federal labor regulations and wage standards, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.