Sous Chef Salary in St Louis, MO
Sous Chefs in St Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $26.30 per hour, which translates to about $1,052.00 per week, $4,558.67 per month, and $54,704.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in St Louis is growing steadily at about 6% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and industry growth in the culinary field.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in St Louis, MO?
The salary of a Sous Chef in St Louis can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.30 | $852.00 | $3,690.00 | $44,304.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.30 | $1,052.00 | $4,558.67 | $54,704.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.10 | $1,364.00 | $5,906.67 | $70,928.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in St Louis Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily focused behind the scenes in kitchen management and food preparation. Their income mainly consists of their base salary or hourly pay.
Sous Chef Salary in St Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $26.30 per hour, which equates to about $54,704.00 per year.
The pay for Sous Chefs in St Louis aligns closely with the national average, indicating a competitive salary for this position within the local market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St Louis for Sous Chefs
In nearby locations, Sous Chefs may find higher earning potential:
- Wentzville: $32.30 per hour
- Chesterfield: $30.70 per hour
These areas offer Higher wages compared to St Louis itself, which could be attractive for Sous Chefs willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in St Louis?
Several factors contribute to the salary levels for Sous Chefs in St Louis:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Sous Chefs with years of culinary experience tend to command higher salaries.
- Skills and Specializations: Proficiency in specific cooking styles, kitchen management, and leadership skills impact pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and fine dining venues usually pay more than casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger, well-known restaurants or hotel chains may offer better compensation packages.
- Location within St Louis: Salaries may vary by neighborhood or suburb, influenced by local economic factors and cost of living.
How To Become a Sous Chef in St Louis
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in St Louis, consider the following steps:
- Seek Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the St. Louis Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training with hands-on experience, preparing students for kitchen roles.
- Enroll in Specialized Training: Schools such as L'École Culinaire provide focused instruction on culinary skills and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Certification is essential for compliance with food safety regulations.
- Pursue Professional Certification: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) designation from the American Culinary Federation can validate your skills and enhance career prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working your way up from entry-level kitchen positions or as a line cook helps build necessary industry expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in St Louis
Some of the prominent establishments in St Louis that hire Sous Chefs include:
- Sidney Street Cafe
- Tony’s
- The Crossing
- Elaia
- Vicia
Establishments That Sous Chefs in St Louis Work At
Sous Chefs are employed across various types of establishments in St Louis:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often pay higher salaries and require advanced culinary expertise.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues may offer competitive wages and benefits.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: Opportunities exist but salaries tend to be lower compared to upscale settings.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: These offer dynamic work environments with varying salary ranges.
The type and prestige of the establishment substantially influence a Sous Chef’s earning potential and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St Louis for Sous Chefs
If you’re interested in roles related to Sous Chef, consider these similar careers:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, which share related skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in St Louis
Sous Chefs should familiarize themselves with federal and state labor laws to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Information on federal labor laws, wages, and employment regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details about Missouri state labor laws, workplace safety, and employment services are available at the Missouri Labor Department website.