Sous Chef Salary in Waco, TX
Sous Chefs in Waco, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $19.00 per hour, which translates to about $760.00 per week, $3,293.33 per month, and $39,520.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Waco is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an encouraging outlook for culinary professionals in this Texas city.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Waco, TX?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Waco varies depending on experience; below is an overview of pay at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Waco Earn Tips?
While Sous Chefs primarily work behind the scenes in the kitchen, they can sometimes earn tips or bonuses depending on the restaurant’s policy. Tips may add an extra few dollars per hour on top of their base salary in some establishments.
Sous Chef Salary in Waco vs. National Average
Across the U.S., Sous Chefs earn an average of about $22.00 per hour and $45,760.00 annually.
Compared to this, Waco pays slightly less, at $19.00 hourly and $39,520.00 yearly, reflecting regional cost-of-living differences and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Waco for Sous Chefs
In the vicinity of Waco, salaries can differ by neighborhood:
- Downtown Waco: $20.00 per hour
- Baylor University Area: $21.00 per hour
Working closer to Baylor University tends to offer the highest pay for Sous Chefs near Waco.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Waco?
Several key factors commonly affect the salary of a Sous Chef in Waco:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Sous Chefs command higher pay due to refined culinary skills and leadership capabilities.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts tend to pay more than casual dining or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary degrees or certifications such as the American Culinary Federation credential may increase earnings.
- Location: Working in neighborhoods with higher living costs or in larger venues usually results in better compensation.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Waco
If aspiring to be a Sous Chef in Waco, several steps can set you on the right path.
Consider pursuing a formal culinary education through programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Texas State Technical College (TSTC), which offers an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts. This training includes food preparation, nutrition, and management skills combined with practical experience.
McLennan Community College also offers comprehensive Culinary Arts courses at certificate and degree levels, focusing on foundational and advanced cooking techniques.
Obtaining professional certifications such as ServSafe Certification, focusing on food safety and sanitation, and American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification can further enhance credibility and job prospects.
Practical kitchen experience through internships or entry-level cooking positions also helps build skills important for the Sous Chef role.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Waco
Several notable Waco employers frequently seek skilled Sous Chefs:
- Cambria Waco Hotel
- Compass Group at Baylor University
- Texas State Technical College
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Waco Work At
Sous Chefs can be found in a variety of culinary settings in Waco, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offering the highest pay scale due to demanding culinary standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Employ Sous Chefs to oversee banquet cooking and large-scale food service.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Often smaller paychecks but provide valuable industry experience.
- Catering Services: Providing diverse culinary experiences and sometimes premium hourly rates.
The type of establishment has a notable impact on salary levels with luxury venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Waco for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to the Sous Chef role, consider these similar positions which require overlapping skills and offer related job opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Waco
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Sous Chefs working in Waco.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive federal employment rules.
- The State of Texas website for workforce and labor information offers important resources regarding state-specific labor laws.
- For local government policies and employment guidelines, check the City of Waco official website.