Sous Chef Salary in Sterling Heights, MI
Sous Chefs in Sterling Heights, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $25.47 per hour, which translates to about $1,018.80 per week, $4,414.80 per month, and $52,977.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Sterling Heights is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Sterling Heights, MI?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Sterling Heights can vary depending on experience and employer, but the following table outlines earnings based on different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.47 | $1,018.80 | $4,414.80 | $52,977.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.29 | $1,211.60 | $5,252.53 | $63,003.20 |
Do Sous Chefs in Sterling Heights Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is centered around kitchen supervision and food preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation is primarily salary-based without tip income.
Sous Chef Salary in Sterling Heights vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn about $30.39 per hour, which equates to approximately $63,211.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Sterling Heights earn slightly less on an hourly and annual basis. The local salary of $25.47 per hour and $52,977.60 annually reflects regional economic factors and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sterling Heights for Sous Chefs
Nearby cities offer higher salaries for Sous Chefs, including:
- Troy: $27.65 per hour
- Birmingham: $28.29 per hour
Exploring opportunities in these locations may result in better pay for Sous Chefs willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Sterling Heights?
Several factors can influence how much a Sous Chef earns in Sterling Heights:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary skills typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often provides better compensation than casual dining or fast-food settings.
- Size and Reputation of the Employer: Larger and well-known establishments tend to offer more competitive salaries and benefits.
- Certifications: Professional certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can enhance earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Some employers may offer shift differentials for evening or weekend work, increasing overall pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Sterling Heights
Becoming a successful Sous Chef in Sterling Heights involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications.
Consider enrolling in culinary arts programs like the Macomb Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Oakland Community College Culinary Studies Institute, both offering excellent training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
Obtaining certifications such as the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) from the American Culinary Federation or the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification can validate your skills and improve job prospects.
Start by gaining practical kitchen experience as a line cook or commis chef, working your way up by developing leadership and culinary expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Sterling Heights
Leading employers in Sterling Heights actively seek skilled Sous Chefs, including:
- Andiamo Italia
- J. Alexander's
- Maggiano's Little Italy
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Sterling Heights Work At
Sous Chefs in Sterling Heights can be found working in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These typically offer higher salaries due to the level of skill and experience required.
- Casual Dining: While still employing Sous Chefs, these venues usually pay moderate wages compared to upscale restaurants.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive pay and opportunities for advancement in culinary management.
- Catering Companies: Can offer varied experiences and performance-based pay structures.
The establishment type directly affects the salary range and benefits available to Sous Chefs, with high-end venues usually providing the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sterling Heights for Sous Chefs
If you are exploring roles similar to Sous Chef, you might consider the following positions that share transferable skills and experience requirements.
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager roles, offering progression options within the culinary and hospitality industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Sterling Heights
Sous Chefs in Sterling Heights should be familiar with federal and Michigan state labor laws to ensure compliance and understanding of their rights and responsibilities.
- For comprehensive information on federal employment laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Michigan-specific labor laws and regulations can be found on the State of Michigan's official website.