Sushi Chef Salary in Albuquerque, NM
Sushi Chefs in Albuquerque, NM, in 2026, earn approximately $18.36 per hour, which translates to about $734.40 per week, $3,182.40 per month, and $38,188.80 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Albuquerque is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting expanding interest in Japanese cuisine and sushi dining experiences in the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Albuquerque, NM?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Albuquerque varies based on experience, skill, and workplace, but here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.86 | $634.40 | $2,740.27 | $32,890.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.30 | $772.00 | $3,326.67 | $39,944.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.50 | $940.00 | $4,066.67 | $48,880.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Albuquerque Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their salary, especially in upscale or specialty restaurants. It’s common for Sushi Chefs to make an extra $10 per hour in tips, supplementing their overall income significantly.
Sushi Chef Salary in Albuquerque vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Sushi Chefs is about $19.30, which converts to roughly $40,144 per year.
Sushi Chefs in Albuquerque earn slightly less than the national average, with an hourly wage of about $18.36 and an annual salary of $38,188.80.
This difference may reflect the local cost of living and regional demand for sushi expertise.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albuquerque for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas where Sushi Chefs in Albuquerque might earn higher wages include:
- Downtown: $20.00 per hour
- Nob Hill: $21.00 per hour
Sushi Chefs working in Nob Hill or Downtown Albuquerque may find slightly higher pay than in other parts of the city.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Albuquerque?
Several key factors can impact how much a Sushi Chef earns in Albuquerque:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with advanced knife skills and knowledge of sushi preparation techniques typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale sushi bars, fine dining restaurants, or specialty Japanese establishments often leads to better pay compared to casual dining spots.
- Location Within the City: Salaries may be higher in popular districts like Nob Hill or Downtown due to greater demand and customer spending power.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe or Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) can enhance a Sushi Chef’s qualifications and earning potential.
- Reputation and Clientele: Chefs known for their craftsmanship or those who cultivate a loyal customer base can command higher salaries.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Albuquerque
Getting started as a Sushi Chef in Albuquerque involves several steps and training opportunities:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs such as the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training including international cuisines and sushi techniques.
- Take Specialized Sushi Classes: The University of New Mexico Continuing Education offers courses focused on sushi making and Japanese culinary arts.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge in food handling and safety, which is essential in the food industry.
- Obtain Sushi-Specific Certification: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation recognizes expertise specifically in sushi preparation.
- Gain Experience: Practical work in local sushi restaurants, apprenticeships, or internships can build hands-on skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Albuquerque
Some of the leading employers looking for experienced Sushi Chefs in Albuquerque include:
- Sushi King
- H-Bomb Sushi
- Double Zero Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Albuquerque Work At
Sushi Chefs often find employment in a variety of settings within Albuquerque:
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments typically pay higher wages due to the demand for high-quality sushi and refined presentation.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Sushi Bars: While the pace might be faster, pay may be somewhat lower compared to fine dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues sometimes employ Sushi Chefs as part of their dining options, offering stable employment with potential benefits.
- Catering and Special Events: Chefs may also work in catering capacities, which can provide varied income depending on event frequency and scale.
The type and prestige of the establishment largely influence compensation and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albuquerque for Sushi Chefs
Those interested in Sushi Chef roles may also consider similar hospitality positions that require culinary expertise and offer related responsibilities.
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Cuisine positions, all of which involve culinary leadership and advanced cooking skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Albuquerque
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations can help Sushi Chefs in Albuquerque manage their work and finances effectively.
- You can find information on federal labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details specific to New Mexico labor regulations and workforce solutions are available on the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions website.