Sous Chef Salary in Saint Paul, MN
Sous Chefs in Saint Paul, MN, in 2026, earn approximately $29.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,160.00 per week, $5,026.67 per month, and $60,320.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Saint Paul is growing at around 5% per year, indicating a positive and expanding job market in the culinary sector within the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Saint Paul, MN?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Saint Paul varies based on experience and employer, but the figures below provide a general overview across entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,973.33 | $47,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.00 | $1,160.00 | $5,026.67 | $60,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $44.00 | $1,760.00 | $7,626.67 | $91,520.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Saint Paul Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their roles are primarily kitchen-based and focused on food preparation and management rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally comprised of their salary or hourly wage.
Sous Chef Salary in Saint Paul vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $29.00 per hour, translating to approximately $60,320.00 per year.
In Saint Paul, MN, the average hourly and yearly salaries for Sous Chefs align closely with the national figures, indicating competitive pay that matches broader industry standards across the U.S.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Saint Paul for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different salary ranges for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown: $31.00 per hour
- Highland Park: $30.00 per hour
Considering neighborhood pay scales can be helpful when seeking employment opportunities or planning your career trajectory near Saint Paul.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Saint Paul?
Several key factors impact a Sous Chef's salary in Saint Paul:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with strong culinary skills usually command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels often pay more compared to casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification can improve salary prospects.
- Responsibilities and Management Roles: Those overseeing larger kitchen teams or multiple functions tend to have higher earnings.
- Local Market Demand: The culinary industry's growth in Saint Paul can increase salary offers for qualified Sous Chefs.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Saint Paul
Here are important steps toward becoming a Sous Chef in Saint Paul:
- Gain Culinary Education: Enroll in reputable programs like the Saint Paul College Culinary Arts Program or Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Minneapolis/St. Paul, which provide comprehensive training.
- Obtain Key Certifications: Consider earning credentials such as the ServSafe Certification for food safety and the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification to demonstrate professional competence.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start by working as a line cook or kitchen assistant to build skills and knowledge within the kitchen environment.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Excelling in team management and kitchen operations is essential for advancing to Sous Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Saint Paul
Some well-known employers in Saint Paul looking for talented Sous Chefs include:
- The Saint Paul Hotel
- Cossetta's
- Meritage
- The Lexington
- W.A. Frost & Company
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Saint Paul Work At
Sous Chefs are employed across a variety of food service establishments, each influencing salary differently.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often pay the highest salaries due to complex menus and higher expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations may offer competitive pay and growth opportunities.
- Casual Dining and Fast Casual: Typically, these establishments pay less but offer more entry-level opportunities.
- Catering and Event Venues: May offer seasonal work with variable pay scales.
The type and prestige of the establishment play an important role in determining how much a Sous Chef can earn.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Saint Paul for Sous Chefs
If you're considering roles related to Sous Chef, here are a few career options within the hospitality industry in Saint Paul:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Chef de Cuisine, roles that share culinary and leadership responsibilities with the Sous Chef.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Saint Paul
Sous Chefs should be aware of the various labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in Saint Paul:
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for national labor laws and employment guidelines.
- For state-specific employment rules, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development offers valuable resources.
- The City of Saint Paul official website provides local employment information and regulations.