Sous Chef Salary in Rio Rancho, NM
Sous Chefs in Rio Rancho, NM, earn approximately $25.87 per hour, which translates to about $1,034.80 per week, $4,484.13 per month, and $53,809.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Rio Rancho is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend for employment opportunities in this culinary leadership role within the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Rio Rancho, NM?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Rio Rancho varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.67 | $826.80 | $3,580.40 | $43,085.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.87 | $1,034.80 | $4,484.13 | $53,809.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.77 | $1,230.80 | $5,306.53 | $63,801.60 |
Do Sous Chefs in Rio Rancho Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work focuses on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their primary compensation comes from their salary.
Sous Chef Salary in Rio Rancho vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $27.00 per hour and approximately $56,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Rio Rancho earn slightly less per hour at $25.87 but their annual salary of $53,809.60 is close to the national average. This suggests that while local wages are competitive, there exists potential for growth as the market develops.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rio Rancho for Sous Chefs
Nearby establishments offering competitive pay for Sous Chefs include:
- Copper Canyon Grill: $22.00 per hour
- Bistro 23: $22.00 per hour
These venues provide slightly different wage scales that may appeal to Sous Chefs considering employment options in the greater Rio Rancho area.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Rio Rancho?
A variety of factors influence the salary of a Sous Chef including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs who have developed strong culinary and leadership skills can command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or large hotel kitchens often provides better compensation compared to smaller or casual dining venues.
- Specialized Culinary Skills: Expertise in certain cuisines or advanced cooking techniques can increase earning potential.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees and recognized certifications often lead to salary boosts.
- Work Hours and Shift Premiums: Evening or weekend shifts may come with additional pay incentives.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Rio Rancho
To become a successful Sous Chef in Rio Rancho, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Education Programs: Programs like the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive hands-on culinary training preparing students for roles such as Sous Chef.
- Take Continuing Culinary Classes: Institutions such as the University of New Mexico Continuing Education Culinary Classes offer courses to enhance specific culinary skills and techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification are highly regarded and often required for managerial kitchen roles.
- Earn Professional Credentials: The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification offers credentialing that can validate culinary expertise and experience.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Rio Rancho
Some of the key establishment employers in Rio Rancho hiring Sous Chefs include:
- Copper Canyon Grill
- Bistro 23
- The Range Café
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Rio Rancho Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment across a range of establishment types including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide steady positions but often with lower salary potential.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer higher pay due to quality expectations and often a need for specialized culinary skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger kitchens with diverse menus often require skilled Sous Chefs and pay accordingly.
- Banquet and Catering Venues: Demand flexible chefs who can manage large-scale cooking and have management capabilities.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the salary and growth opportunities within the role.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rio Rancho for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to being a Sous Chef, consider these related positions that share culinary and leadership traits:
These include the roles of Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, ideal for those looking to advance or diversify within the hospitality field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Rio Rancho
Sous Chefs operating in Rio Rancho need to be aware of applicable labor laws and tax obligations at both federal and state levels.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information about labor regulations including wage and hour laws.
- New Mexico state labor laws and worker rights can be reviewed on the New Mexico government website.
