Sous Chef Salary in Santa Fe, NM
Sous Chefs in Santa Fe, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $27.95 per hour, which translates to about $1,118.00 per week, $4,844.67 per month, and $58,136.00 per year.
The job demand for Sous Chefs in Santa Fe is showing positive growth of around 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities within the culinary scene.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Santa Fe, NM?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Santa Fe varies with experience and establishment, but generally, earnings fall within the following ranges.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.72 | $868.80 | $3,760.00 | $45,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.95 | $1,118.00 | $4,844.67 | $58,136.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.97 | $1,438.80 | $6,247.20 | $74,937.60 |
Do Sous Chefs in Santa Fe Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is focused primarily on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation mainly comes from their salary or wages rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Santa Fe vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $30.00 per hour, which amounts to about $62,400 per year.
When compared, Sous Chefs in Santa Fe earn slightly less hourly at $27.95 per hour and $58,136 annually. This difference may reflect local economic factors and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Fe for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas show some variation in pay for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown: $29.50 per hour
- Canyon Road: $30.00 per hour
Sous Chefs working in Canyon Road enjoy some of the highest earning potential near Santa Fe.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Santa Fe?
Sous Chef salaries in Santa Fe are influenced by several important factors.
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary techniques typically earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale hotels usually offers better pay compared to casual eateries or smaller restaurants.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certifications or formal training can boost earning potential.
- Kitchen Management Responsibilities: Additional managerial duties and leadership roles can increase pay.
- Seasonal and Economic Factors: Local tourism and seasonal demand may also affect hiring and salary levels.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Santa Fe
Becoming a competent Sous Chef involves a combination of education, training, and leadership development.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Institutions such as Santa Fe Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training including hands-on and theoretical knowledge.
- Explore Specialized Culinary Programs: The Institute of American Indian Arts Culinary Program emphasizes indigenous culinary traditions combined with modern techniques.
- Get Certified: Programs such as ServSafe Certification ensure knowledge of food safety standards, while the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential demonstrates advanced skills and leadership ability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work your way up through kitchen roles, from line cook to chef de partie, building practical skills and reputation.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Santa Fe
If you are looking for a Sous Chef position, these Santa Fe establishments are among the top employers:
- La Fonda on the Plaza
- The Shed
- Geronimo
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Santa Fe Work At
Sous Chefs usually work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher salaries due to quality and complexity of cuisine.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive pay plus benefits, reflecting their large scale and service standards.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Offer diverse opportunities, though pay may be somewhat lower compared to upscale venues.
- Catering and Event Companies: May provide project-based work with fluctuating compensation.
The type of establishment greatly influences overall salary, responsibilities, and advancement prospects for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Fe for Sous Chefs
If you're considering alternative or related career paths, here are some similar roles to Sous Chef you might explore:
These jobs include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager, all of which require strong leadership and culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Santa Fe
Sous Chefs should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax obligations affecting their employment in Santa Fe.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on federal workplace rights and regulations.
- For state-specific guidance, the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions website offers resources on employment standards, wages, and employee protections.