Sous Chef Salary in Tallahassee, FL
Sous Chefs in Tallahassee, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $27.87 per hour, which translates to about $1,114.80 per week, $4,830.80 per month, and $57,969.60 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Tallahassee is growing strongly at about 17% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled culinary professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Tallahassee, FL?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Tallahassee varies depending on experience and employer. Here is an overview based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Tallahassee Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Their compensation usually consists of a fixed salary or hourly wage.
Sous Chef Salary in Tallahassee vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs make about $29.25 per hour, which equates to approximately $60,840 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Tallahassee earn a slightly lower hourly wage of $27.87, translating to nearly $57,969.60 annually. This gap may reflect regional cost of living differences and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tallahassee for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying salary levels for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown: $28.50 per hour
- Midtown: $27.00 per hour
Working in Downtown Tallahassee offers the highest pay for Sous Chefs in the area, with wages outperforming Midtown slightly.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Tallahassee?
Several factors affect how much a Sous Chef can earn in Tallahassee:
- Experience and Skill Level: Higher levels of culinary expertise and years working in professional kitchens generally lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often pay more than casual dining or fast food chains.
- Certifications and Education: Holding professional credentials like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can boost salary potential.
- Specific Culinary Skills: Specialized talents such as pastry arts or international cuisines can enhance employability and compensation.
- Work Hours and Responsibilities: Sous Chefs who manage larger teams or cover more shifts may earn additional pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Tallahassee
Becoming a Sous Chef involves a combination of education, hands-on experience, and certifications:
- Enroll in culinary training programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Tallahassee Community College for foundational skills and kitchen management.
- Gain practical experience through apprenticeships such as the Chef's Apprenticeship Program at Lively Technical College, offering mentorship in professional kitchens.
- Obtain relevant certifications including ServSafe Certification to ensure expertise in food safety and sanitation standards.
- Consider earning the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation which recognizes professional competence and skill in the culinary field.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Tallahassee
In Tallahassee, several renowned establishments seek talented Sous Chefs to join their teams:
- Four Points by Sheraton
- University Center Club
- Hotel Duval
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Tallahassee Work At
Sous Chefs find employment opportunities in various types of food service settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These restaurants offer high-end cuisine and tend to provide higher salaries due to demanding skills and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large-scale kitchens servicing diverse clientele often offer competitive compensation and benefits.
- Catering Services and Banquet Halls: These may pay well depending on the scale and prestige of the operation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: While offering more entry roles, pay tends to be lower but can offer valuable experience.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with more upscale venues generally providing better earnings and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tallahassee for Sous Chefs
Those interested in careers related to Sous Chef roles can consider these similar positions, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, all of which involve culinary expertise and leadership.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Tallahassee
Understanding labor regulations and tax obligations is important for Sous Chefs working in Tallahassee.
- Consult the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for guidelines on wages, overtime, and workplace rights.
- Visit the State of Florida's official site for employment services and labor market information to learn about local employment regulations and resources.