Sous Chef Salary in Torrance, CA
Sous Chefs in Torrance, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $28.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,120.00 per week, $4,853.33 per month, and $58,240.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Torrance is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive job outlook in the culinary sector for this area.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Torrance, CA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Torrance varies depending on experience, skills, and the establishment. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings based on 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) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Torrance Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in kitchen management and food preparation. Their income usually consists of a guaranteed salary or hourly wage.
Sous Chef Salary in Torrance vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of about $25.00 per hour and approximately $52,000 annually.
Sous Chefs in Torrance earn a slightly higher wage than the national average, with an hourly rate of $28.00 and annual earnings around $58,240, reflecting local cost of living and industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Torrance for Sous Chefs
Nearby cities offer competitive salaries for Sous Chefs:
- Redondo Beach: $35.00 per hour
- Los Angeles: $34.00 per hour
Those able to commute to Redondo Beach or Los Angeles may find higher pay opportunities as a Sous Chef.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Torrance?
Several factors contribute to a Sous Chef’s earning potential in Torrance:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with advanced culinary techniques and leadership skills tend to earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels typically offer better compensation compared to casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications such as Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can enhance job prospects and pay.
- Location: Proximity to high-demand areas or prestigious culinary markets elevates salary averages.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Torrance
To pursue a career as a Sous Chef in Torrance, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College or the Professional Culinary Arts Program at the Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is widely recognized and often required by employers for food safety compliance.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles, such as line cook or commis chef, to develop practical skills and progress into sous chef positions.
- Earn Professional Certification: Achieving a Certified Sous Chef (CSC) certification from the American Culinary Federation boosts credentials and career growth opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Torrance
Torrance features several prominent restaurants and establishments actively seeking Sous Chefs, including:
- Maru Korean BBQ
- The Depot
- Gushi Restaurant
- King's Hawaiian Bakery & Restaurant
- Little Sister
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Torrance Work At
Sous Chefs typically work in a variety of culinary settings, each influencing salary prospects:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer some of the highest salaries due to the complexity and quality standards required.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: Often offer competitive pay with benefits and opportunities for advancement.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: May offer lower wages but can provide steady employment and experience.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Salaries may vary widely based on the scale of operations and clientele.
The level of prestige and size of the establishment generally correlates with salary levels for Sous Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Torrance for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in roles similar to Sous Chef, consider exploring careers such as:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, which share related skills and often offer varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Torrance
Sous Chefs should be aware of pertinent labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper compliance and financial management:
- California’s Employment Development Department provides detailed information on employment services and labor market data on the edd.ca.gov website.
- The bls.gov website offers extensive federal labor statistics and occupational outlooks useful for understanding employment conditions.