Sous Chef Salary in Santa Monica, CA
Sous Chefs in Santa Monica, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $38.05 per hour, which translates to about $1,522.00 per week, $6,595.33 per month, and $79,144.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Santa Monica is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market and increasing opportunities in the culinary field for this role.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Santa Monica, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Santa Monica varies based on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $29.76 | $1,190.40 | $5,146.13 | $61,753.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $38.05 | $1,522.00 | $6,595.33 | $79,144.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $48.66 | $1,946.40 | $8,386.13 | $100,051.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Santa Monica Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as they work behind the scenes managing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their income is primarily based on their salary or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Santa Monica vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $30.40, translating to approximately $63,232 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Santa Monica earn significantly more, with about $38.05 per hour and $79,144 per year. This difference reflects the higher cost of living and higher demand for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Monica for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Sous Chefs as well:
- Downtown Santa Monica: $40.00 per hour
- Ocean Avenue: $42.00 per hour
Those working closer to Ocean Avenue enjoy slightly higher pay, reflecting the upscale dining scene and tourist traffic in that area.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Santa Monica?
Several key factors influence how much a Sous Chef can earn in Santa Monica:
- Experience and Skillset: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced technical skills, leadership abilities, and culinary creativity tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, or high-volume catering can lead to better pay compared to casual dining or smaller eateries.
- Certifications: Professional certifications like Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation can boost salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Longer hours, weekend shifts, or working during peak dining times may come with additional compensation.
- Local Economy and Demand: Santa Monica's vibrant food culture and tourism industry affect salary levels positively.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Santa Monica
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Santa Monica, consider these essential steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Santa Monica College offer hands-on training essential for developing kitchen skills and management techniques.
- Advanced Chef Training: Courses such as the Professional Chef Training at New School of Cooking provide deeper expertise in cooking methods and international cuisines.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Secure certifications like the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Manager Certification which validate knowledge in food safety standards.
- Earn Industry Certifications: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation is a credential that proves competency and dedication to the profession.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in kitchens progressively, moving from line cook positions to junior sous chef roles to build skills and reputation.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Santa Monica
Many prestigious employers in Santa Monica actively seek talented Sous Chefs, including:
- The Edward Thomas Collection
- Mina Group
- True Food Kitchen
- Sand & Sea
- The Huntley Hotel
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Santa Monica Work At
Sous Chefs find opportunities across diverse culinary settings such as casual dining, fast casual, fine dining, and hotel kitchens.
Establishments like fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels generally offer higher salaries due to the complexity of menu offerings and higher service standards.
Casual or fast casual restaurants tend to provide more entry-level opportunities, but with correspondingly lower wage scales.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Monica for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in roles related to the Sous Chef position, consider exploring similar careers such as:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which involve overlapping skills and leadership roles in culinary environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Santa Monica
Sous Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax policies that affect their employment conditions in Santa Monica.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on wages, overtime, and workplace standards.
- California state-specific labor laws and workplace safety info can be found at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Local ordinances and business regulations in Santa Monica are detailed on the City of Santa Monica official site.