Sous Chef Salary in Savannah, GA
Sous Chefs in Savannah, GA, in 2026, earn approximately $27.64 per hour, which translates to about $1,105.60 per week, $4,790.93 per month, and $57,491.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Savannah is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Savannah, GA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Savannah can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.57 | $902.80 | $3,903.87 | $46,846.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.64 | $1,105.60 | $4,790.93 | $57,491.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.85 | $1,354.00 | $5,848.67 | $70,408.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Savannah Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is often behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is typically based solely on salary rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Savannah vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $30.39 per hour, which amounts to about $63,211.20 per year.
When compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Savannah earn slightly less, at about $27.64 per hour and $57,491.20 annually. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and market demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Savannah for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas to Savannah with competitive Sous Chef salaries include:
- Historic District: $28.50 per hour
- Ardsley Park: $29.00 per hour
Sous Chefs working in Ardsley Park tend to earn the highest wages among these close areas, followed closely by those in the Historic District.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Savannah?
Several factors influence the salary of a Sous Chef in Savannah, including:
- Experience and Expertise: Years of experience and mastery of culinary techniques play a big role in salary increases.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or hotels tend to offer better compensation compared to casual dining spots.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in certain cuisines or kitchen management skills can boost earning potential.
- Certification and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications can make candidates more competitive.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working nights, weekends, or holidays may come with premium pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Savannah
To become a Sous Chef in Savannah, aspiring culinary professionals generally follow several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Enroll in culinary arts programs such as those offered by the Culinary Institute of Savannah or Savannah Technical College Culinary Arts Program for hands-on training and foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Certification are important for ensuring compliance with health standards and employability.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Consider obtaining the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) designation from the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate advanced skills and professional commitment.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles such as Line Cook or Prep Cook to build practical skills and advance.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Savannah
Several prominent employers in Savannah are actively seeking experienced Sous Chefs:
- Marriott International
- Goodwin Recruiting
- American Cruise Lines
- Chart House
- Southern Cross Hospitality
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Savannah Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment across a varied spectrum of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher salaries due to demanding culinary standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide steady work and often benefits with competitive pay scales.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Dining: Wages here may be lower, but opportunities for growth exist.
- Catering and Cruise Lines: May offer unique environments with variable pay based on contract and event sizes.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary, prestige, and culinary experience a Sous Chef can gain.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Savannah for Sous Chefs
If you're interested in careers related to being a Sous Chef, consider these similar hospitality roles that require overlapping skills and offer alternate career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Savannah
Sous Chefs should be mindful of labor laws and tax obligations to ensure proper compliance and understanding of their employment rights.
- Federal labor laws and regulations are available through the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific state employment laws can be found at the Georgia Department of Labor website.