Sous Chef Salary in Vancouver, WA
Sous Chefs in Vancouver, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $31.30 per hour, which translates to about $1,252.00 per week, $5,425.33 per month, and $65,104.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Vancouver is growing at a steady rate of around 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for this culinary leadership role in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Vancouver, WA?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Vancouver can vary significantly depending on experience and the establishment, but generally, compensation falls within a competitive range as outlined below.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.60 | $1,064.00 | $4,608.53 | $55,296.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.30 | $1,252.00 | $5,425.33 | $65,104.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.80 | $1,472.00 | $6,363.73 | $76,544.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Vancouver Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not receive tips as part of their compensation. Their earnings mainly come from their base salary or hourly wage, since they work primarily in kitchen management and food preparation rather than front-of-house service.
Sous Chef Salary in Vancouver vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn approximately $31.30 per hour on average, which is about $65,104 per year.
With an average hourly wage of $31.30 and yearly earnings around $65,104, Sous Chefs in Vancouver align closely with the national average. This parity reflects the city's balanced cost of living and culinary market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Vancouver for Sous Chefs
If you're considering surrounding areas near Vancouver, some neighborhoods tend to offer slightly higher pay:
- Fisher's Landing: $33.00 per hour
- Downtown Vancouver: $32.50 per hour
These nearby locations may present additional opportunities for Sous Chefs seeking higher wages or advancement.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Vancouver?
Several factors can significantly influence how much a Sous Chef earns in Vancouver, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sous Chefs typically command higher salaries, especially those with proven culinary skills and leadership capabilities.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and resorts often pay higher wages than casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees or certificates, such as those from recognized culinary schools, can enhance earning potential.
- Specific Culinary Skills: Expertise in specialized cuisine or advanced cooking techniques may lead to better compensation.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working night shifts or holidays can provide additional income through shift differentials.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Vancouver
Becoming a Sous Chef requires a blend of education, practical experience, and certifications. Key steps include:
- Enroll in culinary training programs such as the Clark College Culinary Arts Program, which emphasizes hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge tailored for culinary careers.
- Consider attending institutions like the Oregon Culinary Institute in nearby Portland for comprehensive culinary education focused on practical skills aligned with industry standards.
- Obtain essential food safety certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which assures adherence to food safety practices.
- Advance credentials with certifications like the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification, including the Certified Sous Chef credential, which validates expertise and experience.
- Gain work experience in kitchen settings, starting from line cook or commis chef roles, then moving up to supervisory positions.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Vancouver
Sous Chefs seeking employment in Vancouver can find opportunities with prominent local employers such as:
- ilani Casino Resort
- McMenamins
- Beaches Restaurant & Bar
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Vancouver Work At
Sous Chefs commonly work in a diverse range of culinary establishments, which can affect their salaries:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues typically offer the highest pay due to their focus on quality, presentation, and skilled culinary staff.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hospitality venues often provide competitive wages and benefits for Sous Chefs managing kitchen operations.
- Casual Dining: These establishments offer steady employment but usually at moderate salary levels compared to fine dining.
- Catering Companies: Salaries can vary widely depending on the size and prestige of the company.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Sous Chef’s income, with luxury or high-profile venues paying top dollar for skilled candidates.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Vancouver for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in similar roles to Sous Chef, here are some related positions you might explore that generally share overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These include Banquet Chef, Head Chef, and Chef de Cuisine, which offer career pathways with different scopes and salary ranges in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Vancouver
Sous Chefs in Vancouver should be aware of the labor laws and tax regulations that govern their employment rights and responsibilities:
- Consult the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for nationwide guidelines on wages, overtime, and workplace standards.
- For state-specific labor laws and regulations, access resources on the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.