Sous Chef Salary in Tacoma, WA
Sous Chefs in Tacoma, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $36.07 per hour, which equals about $1,442.80 per week, $6,252.13 per month, and $75,025.60 per year.
The job market for Sous Chefs in Tacoma is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and opportunities in the culinary field.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Tacoma, WA?
Sous Chef salaries in Tacoma vary depending on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown by experience category:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $30.72 | $1,228.80 | $5,298.40 | $63,580.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $36.07 | $1,442.80 | $6,252.13 | $75,025.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.32 | $1,692.80 | $7,335.47 | $88,996.80 |
Do Sous Chefs in Tacoma Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation and kitchen management rather than direct customer service.
Sous Chef Salary in Tacoma vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $30.29, translating to a yearly pay of around $63,003.20.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Tacoma earn more, with hourly wages at approximately $36.07 and an annual salary of about $75,025.60. This premium reflects Tacoma’s culinary market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tacoma for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offering higher wages for Sous Chefs include:
- Redmond: $42.52 per hour
- Tukwila: $40.65 per hour
These cities feature competitive salaries that surpass Tacoma’s average, likely due to their proximity to larger urban centers.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Tacoma?
Several factors impact the earning potential of Sous Chefs in Tacoma:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Experienced Sous Chefs with strong leadership and specialized skills command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or high-end restaurants typically yields higher wages than casual eateries.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger hotel kitchens or prestigious restaurants may offer better pay and benefits.
- Certifications and Education: Food safety certifications and formal culinary training can enhance earnings.
- Shift Patterns and Hours Worked: Overtime and flexible hours may affect overall income.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Tacoma
Interested individuals seeking a Sous Chef position in Tacoma can take several steps to advance:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Consider programs like the Bates Technical College Culinary Arts Program or South Puget Sound Community College Culinary Arts Program for foundational skills.
- Gain Relevant Certifications: Obtain necessary credentials such as ServSafe Certification and the Washington State Food Worker Card to meet industry standards.
- Build Experience: Work in entry-level kitchen roles to develop practical skills and progress through the ranks.
- Network in the Culinary Community: Connect with local chefs and attend culinary events to open job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Tacoma
Major employers seeking Sous Chefs in Tacoma include well-known food service companies and restaurants such as:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Tacoma Work At
Sous Chefs are employed across various types of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer moderate pay; ideal for gaining diverse kitchen experience.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically have faster-paced environments with competitive but often lower wages.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Provide higher salaries due to demanding culinary standards and complex menu items.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer steady pay and benefits, attracting experienced Sous Chefs.
The type of establishment strongly affects salary, with upscale locations generally paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tacoma for Sous Chefs
If you're considering related career paths to Sous Chef, here are three common options to explore:
These positions include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager—all roles that involve advanced culinary leadership.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Tacoma
Sous Chefs should be informed about state labor regulations and tax responsibilities. Helpful resources include:
- Washington State Department of Licensing offers details on professional licenses and regulations available at dol.wa.gov.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides comprehensive data on employment and wages at bls.gov.