Sous Chef Salary in Upper Darby, PA
Sous Chefs in Upper Darby, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $27.00 per hour, which amounts to about $1,080.00 per week, $4,680.00 per month, and $56,160.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Upper Darby is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities and an expanding culinary scene in the region.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Upper Darby, PA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Upper Darby varies based on experience and the employer, but here’s a breakdown of typical earnings at different stages in the career.
| 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) | $27.00 | $1,080.00 | $4,860.00 | $56,160.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.00 | $1,280.00 | $5,546.67 | $66,560.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Upper Darby Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips, as their roles focus on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes. Their earnings are mostly comprised of their salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Sous Chef Salary in Upper Darby, PA vs. National Average
Across the United States, the national average hourly wage for Sous Chefs is approximately $27.00 per hour, with an annual salary around $56,160.00.
Comparatively, the earnings of Sous Chefs in Upper Darby align closely with the national average, reflecting competitive compensation in the region for culinary management roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Upper Darby for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas where Sous Chefs tend to earn slightly higher wages include:
- Drexel Hill: $28.00 per hour
- Ardmore: $29.00 per hour
These nearby communities offer incremental increases in pay for Sous Chefs, making them attractive options for commuting culinary professionals.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Upper Darby?
Several factors can have a significant impact on how much a Sous Chef earns in Upper Darby:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with strong leadership and culinary skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Working at fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels generally pays better than casual or fast-casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials like Certified Sous Chef (CSC) or completion of notable culinary programs can enhance earning potential.
- Shift and Work Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might offer premium pay.
- Local Market Demand: The growth of the local food scene and hospitality industry can drive competitive wages.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Upper Darby
Becoming a Sous Chef requires a combination of culinary education, practical experience, and certification. Here are some steps to consider:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Institutions such as Delaware County Community College Culinary Arts Program and The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College offer comprehensive culinary training focused on both hands-on skills and industry standards.
- Obtain Industry Certifications: Credentials like the ServSafe Certification are required by many employers to ensure food safety knowledge.
- Pursue Certification as a Certified Sous Chef (CSC): This credential, offered by the American Culinary Federation, validates your skills and boosts career prospects.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Starting as a line cook or commis chef in reputable establishments helps build the necessary skills to advance to sous chef roles.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Upper Darby
Several prominent restaurants and hospitality venues in Upper Darby hire Sous Chefs regularly, including:
- Black Powder Tavern
- The Smith Restaurant
- Founding Farmers
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Upper Darby Work At
Sous Chefs typically work across a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often have steady kitchens with moderate salaries.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer higher pay reflecting the higher culinary standards and clientele expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide potential for benefits and enhanced compensation, especially in larger operations.
- Catering Services: Can provide varied experiences and sometimes higher pay depending on event scale.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with upscale venues typically offering the most competitive compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Upper Darby for Sous Chefs
Professionals interested in roles similar to Sous Chef might consider these related positions that involve culinary management and advanced cooking skills:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, providing promising career pathways with varying earnings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Upper Darby
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations helps Sous Chefs manage their employment rights and finances effectively.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for detailed federal labor regulations and employee rights information.
- The State of Pennsylvania's official website offers resources on state-specific labor laws and employment regulations relevant to Sous Chefs.