Sous Chef Salary in Thousand Oaks, CA
Sous Chefs in Thousand Oaks, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $31.40 per hour, which translates to about $1,256.00 per week, $5,442.67 per month, and $65,312.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Thousand Oaks is growing moderately at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Thousand Oaks, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Thousand Oaks varies based on experience and the place of employment. Below is an overview of potential earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.40 | $1,256.00 | $5,442.67 | $65,312.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.40 | $1,696.00 | $7,346.67 | $88,192.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Thousand Oaks Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earning mostly comes from their salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Thousand Oaks, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn around $25.00 per hour with an average annual salary of about $52,000.00.
In comparison, Sous Chefs in Thousand Oaks earn about $31.40 per hour, which is significantly higher than the national average, tallying up to an average $65,312.00 per year.
This difference is influenced by the local cost of living and the culinary industry's demand in Thousand Oaks.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thousand Oaks for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Sous Chefs, including:
- Westlake Village: $30.50 per hour
- Newbury Park: $29.80 per hour
Westlake Village provides a slightly higher hourly wage than Newbury Park, though Thousand Oaks remains a strong market for culinary careers.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Thousand Oaks?
Several factors can significantly impact how much a Sous Chef earns in Thousand Oaks:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More years of experience and expertise in advanced cooking techniques lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts usually offers higher salaries compared to casual dining or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) or food safety qualifications can enhance salary prospects.
- Management Responsibilities: Increased oversight and leadership duties often result in better compensation.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Thousand Oaks
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Thousand Oaks, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Ventura College offer hands-on training in kitchen management, food safety, and culinary techniques.
- Complete Advanced Courses: The Professional Culinary Institute in Santa Barbara offers intensive courses ideal for aspiring Sous Chefs.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring the ServSafe Food Manager Certification, widely recognized across California kitchens, is essential.
- Earn Professional Certifications: The Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation certifies advanced culinary and leadership abilities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Thousand Oaks
Several prominent establishments in Thousand Oaks actively hire Sous Chefs, including:
- Mastro's Steakhouse
- University Village Thousand Oaks
- Four Seasons Westlake Village
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Thousand Oaks Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment in a variety of environments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Generally offer the highest salaries due to demand for quality and culinary precision.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive wages and opportunities for career advancement.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: While salaries may be lower, these establishments can offer steady employment.
- Private Clubs and Catering Companies: Can vary in pay but sometimes provide additional benefits and perks.
The financial rewards and job roles differ depending on the prestige and scale of the dining establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thousand Oaks for Sous Chefs
If you're considering related roles in the hospitality and culinary field, here are positions that share similarities with Sous Chef:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, each focusing on complementary culinary and management skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Thousand Oaks
Understanding local labor laws and employment taxes is vital for Sous Chefs working in Thousand Oaks:
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations website for detailed information on workplace regulations, wage standards, and employee rights.
- The California Employment Development Department website offers resources on employment services, tax responsibilities, and unemployment benefits.