Sous Chef Salary in Tempe, AZ
Sous Chefs in Tempe, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $27.25 per hour, which translates to about $1,090.00 per week, $4,723.33 per month, and $56,680.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Tempe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising and expanding market for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Tempe, AZ?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Tempe can vary depending on experience and the establishment. Here's an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.64 | $865.60 | $3,748.27 | $44,832.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.25 | $1,090.00 | $4,723.33 | $56,680.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.13 | $1,365.20 | $5,903.73 | $70,990.40 |
Do Sous Chefs in Tempe Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in managing kitchen operations and food preparation. Their earnings mainly come from their salary or wages rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Tempe vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Sous Chefs stands at about $27.25, which amounts to $56,680 annually.
In Tempe, Sous Chefs earn essentially on par with the national average, with the average pay matching the $27.25 hourly rate and $56,680 yearly salary.
This aligns with Tempe's status as a growing culinary market where wages reflect national norms without significant deviation.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tempe for Sous Chefs
Salaries for Sous Chefs can vary slightly depending on the part of Tempe you work in:
- Downtown Tempe: $28.50 per hour
- North Tempe: $29.00 per hour
Both Downtown and North Tempe offer a bit higher compensation, with North Tempe leading the pack, likely due to more upscale dining establishments and demand for culinary talent.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Tempe?
Several factors affect how much a Sous Chef can earn in Tempe:
- Experience: More experienced Sous Chefs can command higher salaries due to proven skills and leadership.
- Skill Set: Expertise in various cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety elevates earning potential.
- Type of establishment: Upscale restaurants, resorts, and hotels often pay more than casual dining or fast casual outlets.
- Certifications:Professional credentials like culinary certifications or food safety manager certifications can positively impact pay.
- Shift and hours: Working peak meal times, holidays, or weekends may come with premium pay.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Tempe
Becoming a Sous Chef in Tempe involves a combination of education, certification, and experience:
- Obtain formal culinary education: Programs like the Arizona Culinary Institute in Scottsdale and the Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational skills and training.
- Earn certifications: Nationally recognized certifications such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification and the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) from the American Culinary Federation enhance qualifications.
- Gain hands-on kitchen experience: Starting as line cooks or kitchen assistants helps develop necessary skills to ascend to Sous Chef roles.
- Network within the industry: Building connections with local chefs and culinary professionals in Tempe opens opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Tempe
Several prominent employers regularly seek skilled Sous Chefs in Tempe, including:
- Fox Restaurant Concepts
- M Culinary Concepts
- Sodexo
- Compass Group
- Aramark
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Tempe Work At
Sous Chefs generally find employment in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual dining restaurants: Often provide steady schedules but may offer moderate pay scales.
- Fast casual chains: These prioritize efficiency and consistency, usually with average salaries.
- Fine dining restaurants and resorts: Premium establishments offer higher salaries, advanced techniques, and leadership responsibilities.
- Hotels and catering companies: These can offer diverse culinary challenges and benefits with comparable compensation.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence overall earnings for a Sous Chef in Tempe.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tempe for Sous Chefs
If you're exploring roles similar to Sous Chef, consider these related hospitality jobs:
These careers include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, all offering varying responsibilities and salary levels within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Tempe
Sous Chefs in Tempe should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax information to manage their employment and finances effectively.
- Visit the Arizona government website for state-specific labor regulations, minimum wage standards, and workplace rights.
- For federal labor laws, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive guidance on wage laws, overtime, and workplace safety.