Sushi Chef Salary in Athens, GA
Sushi Chefs in Athens, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.28 per hour, which translates to about $691.20 per week, $2,995.20 per month, and $35,942.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Athens is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a promising outlook and increasing opportunities for professionals in this specialty culinary field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Athens, GA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Athens, GA varies with experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings based on different stages of a Sushi Chef's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.97 | $598.80 | $2,593.20 | $31,113.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.28 | $691.20 | $2,995.20 | $35,942.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.95 | $798.00 | $3,445.00 | $41,496.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Athens Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, especially in establishments where they interact with customers during sushi preparation or at sushi bars. It's common for Sushi Chefs in Athens to make an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant type and customer volume.
Sushi Chef Salary in Athens vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $17.23 per hour, equating to approximately $35,838.40 per year.
Sushi Chefs in Athens earn slightly above the national average with $17.28 per hour and $35,942.40 annually. This close alignment shows Athens is competitive with national salary trends for this position.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Athens for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying pay for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown Athens: $18.50 per hour
- Five Points: $17.80 per hour
Sushi Chefs working in Downtown Athens generally see the highest pay compared to surrounding neighborhoods, benefiting from busier establishments and perhaps more upscale dining.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Athens?
Several factors affect how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Athens:
- Experience and Skill Level: Advanced knife skills and mastering traditional sushi preparation methods can lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale sushi bars usually offer better salaries and tips than casual or fast-casual spots.
- Certifications and Training: Holding professional certificates or completing specialized sushi training can increase earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may command premium pay, as they are typically busier periods.
- Reputation and Clientele: Establishments known for high-quality sushi with affluent customers often offer higher compensation.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Athens
To pursue a career as a Sushi Chef in Athens, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in a Culinary Arts Program: Schools like the Culinary Arts Program at Athens Technical College provide comprehensive culinary training, including international cuisines.
- Complete Specialized Training: The Sushi Chef Training at Georgia Culinary Institute focuses on sushi techniques and Japanese cuisine mastery.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The ServSafe Certification is essential for food safety compliance in Georgia.
- Earn Professional Credentials: Achieving the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) certification showcases expertise and can boost job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start with apprenticeship or kitchen assistant roles to build hands-on sushi preparation skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Athens
Some of the leading establishments currently hiring Sushi Chefs in Athens include:
- Sakura Hibachi & Sushi
- Tiger Sushi Athens
- Ichiban Steak and Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Athens Work At
Sushi Chefs find work in various types of dining venues such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide moderate wages but steady hours and tips.
- Fast Casual Sushi Spots: Often have higher customer turnover but may offer lower base pay.
- Upscale Sushi Bars and Fine Dining: Typically provide the best salary and tip opportunities due to exclusive menus and clientele.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: Large hotels may offer competitive salaries and potential for career growth.
The establishment type strongly impacts both salary and tip income, with upscale venues usually offering the highest earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Athens for Sushi Chefs
If you're interested in roles related to Sushi Chef, consider these similar careers within the hospitality and culinary fields:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor positions, all of which involve varied culinary skills and responsibilities related to managing kitchen operations and food preparation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Athens
Sushi Chefs should be familiar with relevant labor and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Georgia Department of Labor provides detailed info on employment laws on the State Department of Labor website.
- The Federal Internal Revenue Service website offers guidance on taxes and employer responsibilities at the national level.