Sous Chef Salary in Springfield, MA
Sous Chefs in Springfield, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $32.91 per hour, which is about $1,316.40 per week, $5,704.40 per month, and $68,452.80 per year.
The job outlook for Sous Chefs in Springfield is positive, with employment projected to grow around 5% per year, indicating a steady demand for skilled kitchen leaders in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Springfield, MA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Springfield varies depending on experience and other factors. Below is a general breakdown of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $27.64 | $1,105.60 | $4,783.73 | $57,467.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $32.91 | $1,316.40 | $5,704.40 | $68,452.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.19 | $1,567.60 | $6,780.93 | $81,395.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Springfield Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is centered around kitchen leadership and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income is generally composed of their salary or hourly wages.
Sous Chef Salary in Springfield vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn around $31.25 per hour, which translates to roughly $65,000 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Springfield earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $32.91 and annual pay of about $68,452.80.
This difference likely reflects the local market demand and cost of living in Springfield.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Springfield for Sous Chefs
Aside from Springfield, nearby areas offer varying salaries for Sous Chefs:
- Amherst: $30.57 per hour
- Ludlow: $30.20 per hour
While slightly lower than Springfield, these areas still provide competitive pay for Sous Chefs looking to work nearby.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Springfield?
The salary of a Sous Chef can be influenced by several factors including:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced kitchen management and culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts generally offers better compensation compared to fast casual or smaller venues.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications can boost earning potential.
- Responsibilities and Scope of Role: Larger kitchens with more complex operations often pay more for Sous Chefs who oversee extensive teams.
- Local Market Demand: Salaries reflect the demand for culinary talent in Springfield’s hospitality sector.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Springfield
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Springfield, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Holyoke Community College or the Culinary Arts Certificate at Springfield Technical Community College provide comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Certification is essential for complying with food safety standards in professional kitchens.
- Earn Professional Certifications: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation recognizes high culinary skill and can enhance your professional credibility.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work your way up in the kitchen through roles such as line cook or kitchen supervisor to develop essential skills and leadership experience.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Springfield
Several notable employers in Springfield frequently hire skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- MGM Resorts International
- Baystate Health
- Springfield Public Schools
- MassMutual
- The Student Prince Cafe & The Fort Restaurant
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Springfield Work At
Sous Chefs find opportunities in a variety of settings such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often offer the highest salaries due to the demand for exquisite dishes and high standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues may offer competitive pay with additional benefits and career growth opportunities.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Typically offer moderate salaries but can provide valuable experience.
- Catering and Event Venues: May provide fluctuating income depending on the event schedule but foster versatile culinary skills.
The type of establishment impacts not only salary but also working conditions, advancement prospects, and job responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Springfield for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in similar roles within the culinary and hospitality industries, consider exploring these careers:
These roles include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, which demand overlapping skills and offer different career paths and salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Springfield
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Sous Chefs working in Springfield.
- Visit the official Massachusetts government website for detailed information on state-specific labor laws, wage regulations, and workplace safety requirements.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor website offers comprehensive resources regarding wage laws, overtime, and employee rights.