Sous Chef Salary in Scottsdale, AZ
Sous Chefs in Scottsdale, AZ, in 2026, earn approximately $30.24 per hour, which translates to about $1,209.60 per week, $5,241.60 per month, and $62,899.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Scottsdale is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positively expanding market for culinary professionals who support kitchen leadership and operations.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Scottsdale, AZ?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Scottsdale can vary based on experience, skills, and the employer’s profile. Below is an overview of earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.52 | $980.80 | $4,245.33 | $50,809.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.24 | $1,209.60 | $5,241.60 | $62,899.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.29 | $1,491.60 | $6,436.40 | $77,403.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Scottsdale Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes, assisting the Executive Chef and managing kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is usually based on salary rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Scottsdale vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $30.24 per hour or approximately $62,899.20 per year.
The salaries for Sous Chefs in Scottsdale closely align with the national figures, indicating that local pay is competitive and reflects industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Scottsdale for Sous Chefs
When exploring opportunities nearby, certain areas offer higher pay rates for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown Scottsdale: $32 per hour
- North Scottsdale: $34 per hour
These areas may provide better compensation, possibly due to more upscale dining establishments and higher living costs.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Scottsdale?
Several key factors influence how much a Sous Chef can earn in Scottsdale:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More seasoned Sous Chefs with refined culinary techniques and managerial experience tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, resorts, or hotels often offers higher pay compared to casual or fast-casual dining venues.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation enhance earning potential.
- Leadership and Management Responsibilities: The degree of responsibility a Sous Chef takes on in kitchen management can impact their pay scale.
- Local Market Demand and Economy: Scottsdale’s growing culinary scene and tourism industry influence wage levels.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Scottsdale
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Scottsdale, consider the following steps for success:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in culinary programs such as the Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Working in various kitchen roles helps build practical skills and prepare for the responsibilities of a Sous Chef.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification are commonly required and demonstrate knowledge of food safety practices.
- Earn Professional Certification: Pursuing the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential reflects advanced culinary skills and leadership abilities, valued by employers.
- Attend Specialized Culinary Schools: Institutions like the Classic Cooking Academy provide focused education in classic and modern cooking methods.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Scottsdale
Several renowned employers in Scottsdale frequently seek skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- Four Seasons
- Marriott International
- Mastro's Steakhouse
- STK Steakhouse
- Maggiano's Little Italy
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Scottsdale Work At
Sous Chefs in Scottsdale find employment opportunities at various types of dining venues and culinary operations, such as:
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These often provide the highest salaries due to a demand for sophisticated culinary expertise and meticulous kitchen management.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hospitality venues like luxury hotels require Sous Chefs for consistent quality and large-scale operations.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: While these offer more entry-level opportunities, the pay scale is generally lower than upscale venues.
- Catering and Banquet Facilities: These may provide seasonal or event-driven work with variable pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment strongly influence salary levels and growth potential for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Scottsdale for Sous Chefs
If you are considering career paths related to being a Sous Chef, here are some similar roles you might explore:
These include Head Chef, Kitchen Manager, and Chef, roles that require similar culinary expertise and leadership skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Scottsdale
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Sous Chefs working in Scottsdale to ensure compliance and manage earnings effectively.
- You can find detailed information related to state labor regulations on the official Arizona government website, covering wage laws, workplace safety, and employment rights.
- For federal labor standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's website to learn about national employment laws and regulations.