Sous Chef Salary in Wilmington, NC
Sous Chefs in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $26.15 per hour, which translates to about $1,046.00 per week, $4,532.67 per month, and $54,392.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities and an expanding market in the culinary sector.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Wilmington varies based on experience, skills, and employer type. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.68 | $827.20 | $3,578.13 | $39,462.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.62 | $1,104.80 | $4,793.07 | $57,449.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.88 | $1,475.20 | $6,359.47 | $76,710.40 |
Do Sous Chefs in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily in kitchen management and food preparation rather than customer interaction. Their earnings are generally limited to their salaried compensation.
Sous Chef Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $22.32 per hour, translating to about $46,425.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sous Chefs in Wilmington earn higher hourly wages at $26.15 per hour and an annual salary of $54,392.00, reflecting regional market demands and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying salary levels for Sous Chefs:
- Wrightsville Beach: $27.62 per hour
- Downtown Wilmington: $26.15 per hour
Sous Chefs in Wrightsville Beach tend to earn slightly more compared to those working in Downtown Wilmington, likely due to differences in establishment types and clientele demographics.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Sous Chef in Wilmington:
- Experience and Culinary Skill: More experienced Sous Chefs with refined culinary skills and leadership capabilities tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, resorts, or fine dining venues usually offers better pay than casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Certifications and Education: Having formal culinary training and certifications can boost earning potential and job prospects.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger, more prestigious establishments often provide better compensation packages.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shift or weekend work can sometimes include additional pay differentials.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Wilmington
Becoming a skilled Sous Chef in Wilmington involves several key steps and qualifications.
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Consider programs such as the Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program, offering an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts with hands-on training and theoretical knowledge designed for aspiring chefs.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is essential for kitchen staff, ensuring knowledge of food safety regulations and practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles such as Line Cook or Commis Chef to develop culinary proficiency and leadership skills.
- Advance Skills and Leadership: Continually improve cooking techniques and take on responsibilities to become a reliable second-in-command in the kitchen.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Wilmington
Several notable establishments are actively seeking talented Sous Chefs in Wilmington:
- Sweet N Savory
- The George on the Riverwalk
- Catch Restaurant
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Wilmington Work At
Sous Chefs typically find employment in a range of dining establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer the highest salaries due to the complex and high-quality culinary demands.
- Casual Dining: Establishments focused on casual meals may offer moderate salaries but also opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: These larger operations tend to pay well and provide benefits.
- Catering Companies: Auxilliary catering services can vary but sometimes offer competitive pay based on events.
The salary differences across these establishments stem from the scale, clientele, and expectations of food quality and presentation they require.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Sous Chefs
For those interested in similar or advanced culinary roles, here are related career options worth exploring:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Chef positions, which involve advanced culinary leadership and responsibility.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Wilmington
Understanding the relevant labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Sous Chefs to ensure fair employment conditions and compliance.
- For federal labor statistics and job outlook information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
- For employment laws specific to North Carolina, including wage and hour regulations, consult the North Carolina government website.