Sous Chef Salary in Skokie, IL
Sous Chefs in Skokie, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $26.59 per hour, which translates to about $1,063.60 per week, $4,608.93 per month, and $55,307.20 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Skokie is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in this area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Skokie, IL?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Skokie can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.12 | $884.80 | $3,834.13 | $46,009.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.59 | $1,063.60 | $4,608.93 | $55,307.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.25 | $1,250.00 | $5,416.67 | $65,000.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Skokie Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role focuses primarily on kitchen management and food preparation, rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from their salary.
Sous Chef Salary in Skokie, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $25 per hour, which equates to about $52,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Skokie earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $26.59 and an annual income of $55,307.20.
This difference may be influenced by local factors such as the cost of living and the culinary market demands in Skokie.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Skokie for Sous Chefs
Looking at nearby areas, the compensation for Sous Chefs varies slightly:
- Downtown Skokie: $27.50 per hour
- Devonshire: $28.00 per hour
These nearby neighborhoods offer somewhat higher pay, reflecting competitive culinary job markets and possibly upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Skokie?
Several critical factors affect the salary that a Sous Chef can earn in Skokie, including:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary and managerial skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and fine dining venues typically offer better pay compared to casual dining or fast food places.
- Specialized Expertise: Knowledge of specific cuisines or dietary requirements can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Schedules and Workload: Sous Chefs working night shifts or managing larger teams might receive higher pay.
- Local Market Demand: The culinary industry's competitive nature in Skokie and regionally impacts wages.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Skokie
Becoming a successful Sous Chef in Skokie involves a combination of education, certifications, and practical experience. Here are some steps to consider:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training on classical techniques and modern trends. Alternatively, the Triton College Culinary Arts Program provides an Associate degree with focus on hands-on experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification are typically required to demonstrate knowledge in food safety practices essential for managerial roles.
- Gain Relevant Experience: Work under experienced chefs to develop kitchen management skills and advance in culinary techniques.
- Consider Professional Credentials: Earning the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) designation by the American Culinary Federation can boost professional credibility and open higher earning opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Skokie
Some of the prominent employers looking for skilled Sous Chefs in Skokie include:
- The Capital Grille
- Maggiano's Little Italy
- Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Skokie Work At
Sous Chefs in Skokie typically work across various culinary settings such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer higher salaries due to demanding culinary standards and elaborate menu preparations.
- Casual and Family Dining: These establishments might offer moderate pay with more regular schedules.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: Provide opportunities for higher wages, especially in upscale chains.
- Catering Services: Can offer flexible schedules with pay varying based on event frequency and size.
The nature and prestige of the establishment strongly influence the salary levels for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Skokie for Sous Chefs
Those interested in similar career paths to Sous Chef may consider these related roles, which often require similar culinary skills and offer comparable opportunities:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Skokie
Understanding labor laws and taxable obligations is crucial for Sous Chefs to navigate their employment rights and financial responsibilities.
- Federal labor standards and employee rights are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Information specific to Illinois labor laws and regulations can be found at the State of Illinois official website.
- For local employment regulations and guidance, the Village of Skokie official site offers helpful resources.