Sous Chef Salary in Rochester, MN
Sous Chefs in Rochester, MN, in 2026, earn approximately $22.50 per hour, which translates to about $900.00 per week, $3,900.00 per month, and $46,800.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Rochester is growing steadily at about 6% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding culinary market in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Rochester, MN?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Rochester can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Rochester Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily kitchen-based and does not usually involve direct customer interaction. Their earnings come mostly from their salary or wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Rochester vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn on average around $23.00 per hour, translating to about $47,840.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Rochester earn slightly less hourly at $22.50 per hour, and their annual salary of $46,800.00 is just a bit below the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rochester for Sous Chefs
When looking at nearby areas, the salaries for Sous Chefs are slightly higher in some parts of Rochester:
- Downtown: $24.00 per hour
- Northwest Rochester: $23.50 per hour
These areas may offer better pay opportunities owing to the types of establishments and economic factors present there.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Rochester?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Sous Chef available in Rochester, MN:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs or those with specialized culinary skills generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or healthcare facilities like Mayo Clinic may offer better compensation than casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Certifications: Professional certifications can enhance credibility and potential salary.
- Hours and Shift: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might come with shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Rochester’s economic landscape and living expenses influence overall pay scales.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Rochester
Pursuing a career as a Sous Chef in Rochester involves a combination of education, certification, and practical experience:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Rochester Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive training in culinary skills essential to this role.
- Take Specialized Classes: Programs such as Mayo Clinic Healthy Cooking Classes help chefs develop expertise in health-conscious cooking.
- Earn Certifications: The nationally recognized ServSafe Food Manager Certification ensures essential knowledge in food safety, which is often a requirement.
- Obtain Professional Credentials: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can boost career prospects significantly.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working under experienced chefs in restaurants and food service operations helps build hands-on skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Rochester
Major employers seeking skilled Sous Chefs in Rochester include:
- Mayo Clinic
- Kahler Hospitality Group
- Canadian Honker Restaurant
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Rochester Work At
Sous Chefs in Rochester find employment opportunities across a variety of establishments such as casual dining, fine dining, hotels, and healthcare facility kitchens.
The type of establishment plays a key role in determining salary levels. Fine dining restaurants and prestigious hotels or healthcare centers often pay higher wages due to the complexity of cuisine and higher standards.
Casual or fast-casual restaurants might offer entry points but generally pay less than upscale venues.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rochester for Sous Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to Sous Chef, these similar roles might be of interest:
These careers include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager, each sharing similar culinary expertise and managerial responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Rochester
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Sous Chefs working in Rochester.
- The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry provides state labor law details and workplace regulations.
- For federal tax obligations and guidance, the Internal Revenue Service is the primary resource.