Sushi Chef in Augusta, GA
Sushi Chefs in Augusta, GA, in 2026, earn approximately $20.69 per hour, which translates to about $827.60 per week, $3,586.27 per month, and $43,035.20 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Augusta is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this culinary specialty.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Augusta, GA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Augusta can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.28 | $531.20 | $2,300.53 | $27,606.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.23 | $689.20 | $2,967.47 | $35,838.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.35 | $894.00 | $3,855.67 | $46,488.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Augusta Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs sometimes receive tips, especially in establishments where they interact directly with customers at sushi bars. Tips can add an extra $5 to $10 per hour to their earnings depending on the venue and clientele.
Sushi Chef Salary in Augusta vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $19.90 per hour, translating to about $41,392 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Augusta earn a little more hourly at $20.69 per hour and annually at $43,035.20, which suggests competitive pay in the local culinary market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Augusta for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer varied pay scales for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown Augusta: $21.50 per hour
- West Augusta: $20.00 per hour
Downtown Augusta tends to offer higher wages, likely due to the concentration of upscale restaurants and higher customer volume.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Augusta?
Several factors can impact how much a Sushi Chef earns in Augusta:
- Experience and Expertise: Skilled Sushi Chefs with mastery in Japanese cuisine and knife skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Restaurant: Fine dining and upscale sushi bars tend to pay more than casual or fast-casual establishments.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) can boost salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Types: Working evening or weekend shifts can sometimes increase earnings through shift differentials or tips.
- Reputation and Customer Interaction: Chefs who engage with patrons, such as at sushi bars, may receive better tip income.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Augusta
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Augusta involves several steps and training options:
- Formal Culinary Education: Enroll in culinary programs like the Augusta Technical College Culinary Arts Program or obtain a diploma from Helms College Culinary Arts Diploma, which include sushi preparation and Asian cuisine training.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtain certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety.
- Specialized Sushi Training: Pursue the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential to validate proficiency in Japanese culinary arts and sushi making.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work under experienced sushi chefs or in sushi restaurants to hone your skills and gain hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Augusta
Many local establishments are actively hiring Sushi Chefs in Augusta, including:
- Fujiyama Japanese Steak House
- Takosushi
- Miyako Sushi and Steakhouse
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Augusta Work At
Sushi Chefs find employment across various types of restaurants, which can influence their salary:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide higher pay and more opportunities for tips; require advanced culinary skills.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Sushi Bars: Usually offer moderate wages with variable tips depending on customer volume.
- Japanese and Asian Cuisine Restaurants: These specialize in sushi and related dishes, offering both competitive wages and room for skill development.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Can offer stable pay and benefits, sometimes with higher wages for experienced chefs.
The type of establishment affects not only salary but also work environment and opportunities for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Augusta for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in culinary careers similar to Sushi Chef, consider roles such as:
These include Sous Chef, Chef de Partie, and Head Chef positions, which involve advanced culinary skills and leadership roles in kitchen management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Augusta
Sushi Chefs in Augusta should be familiar with various labor laws and taxation regulations to ensure proper compliance and protection.
- Check federal employment regulations at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws in Georgia, visit the Georgia Department of Labor.
- The City of Augusta official website offers local employment resources and information.