Sous Chef Salary in Rockford, IL
Sous Chefs in Rockford, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $27.85 per hour, which translates to about $1,114.00 per week, $4,827.33 per month, and $57,928.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Rockford is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Rockford, IL?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Rockford varies based on experience and establishment, but here’s a breakdown of earnings across career levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.45 | $858.00 | $3,712.00 | $44,496.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.85 | $1,114.00 | $4,827.33 | $57,928.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.11 | $1,444.40 | $6,249.47 | $74,924.80 |
Do Sous Chefs in Rockford Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their primary role is kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Tips are generally earned by front-of-house staff like servers and bartenders. However, some Sous Chefs may receive occasional gratuities in certain establishments, but this is not standard.
Sous Chef Salary in Rockford, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn about $27.85 per hour and $57,928 annually.
The salaries in Rockford align closely with these national averages, indicating a competitive wage reflective of local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rockford for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly varying pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Rockford: $28.50 per hour
- East Rockford: $27.00 per hour
Downtown Rockford offers the highest wages among surrounding areas, largely due to the presence of fine dining venues and larger hospitality businesses.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Rockford, IL?
Several key factors affect the earning potential of a Sous Chef in Rockford:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with refined culinary and management skills tend to earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels usually offer better pay compared to casual eateries or smaller cafes.
- Certifications and Education: Professional culinary certifications and formal education enhance credibility and can increase salary.
- Size and Prestige of Employer: Larger establishments with significant kitchen operations typically pay more due to greater responsibilities.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with high demand for skilled kitchen staff can drive salary increases.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Rockford, IL
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Rockford, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Rock Valley College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program that equips students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for Sous Chefs.
- Seek Advanced Training: Nearby Kendall College in Chicago provides a renowned Culinary Arts Program focusing on contemporary cooking methods and kitchen management, beneficial for career growth.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures understanding of key food safety practices necessary for Sous Chefs.
- Gain Professional Certification: Earning the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential through the American Culinary Federation can enhance qualifications and career prospects.
- Build Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles such as line cook or commis chef to gain hands-on experience before moving into Sous Chef positions.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Rockford, IL
Some of the prominent employers looking for talented Sous Chefs in Rockford include:
- Hard Rock International
- Embassy Suites by Hilton
- Forest Hills Country Club
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Rockford Work At
Sous Chefs are integral to many types of dining establishments in Rockford, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer sophisticated menus requiring advanced culinary skills and often come with higher salaries.
- Hotels and Resorts: Full-service hotels and resorts with extensive food and beverage operations employ Sous Chefs to manage large kitchens.
- Country Clubs: Places like Forest Hills Country Club offer steady employment and competitive pay.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: While demand exists, wages might be lower compared to upscale venues.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence the salary and career advancement opportunities for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rockford, IL for Sous Chefs
If you are exploring career options similar to Sous Chef, these related positions may interest you:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles, which involve similar culinary leadership responsibilities and offer diverse salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Rockford, IL
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is vital for Sous Chefs working in Rockford:
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide employment standards.
- Consult the State of Illinois Department of Employment Security for state-specific labor laws and employment information.
- Check the City of Rockford official website for local regulations and resources relevant to labor and employment.