Sushi Chef Salary in Aurora, CO
Sushi Chefs in Aurora, CO, earn approximately $24.25 per hour, equating to about $970 per week, $4,203.33 per month, and $50,440 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Aurora is growing at a healthy rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the sushi culinary industry within the city.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Aurora, CO?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Aurora varies based on experience and skill level. Entry-level Sushi Chefs typically earn less, while top earners with extensive expertise can command higher wages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.20 | $848.00 | $3,682.67 | $44,160.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.25 | $970.00 | $4,175.83 | $50,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.74 | $1,109.60 | $4,778.53 | $57,699.20 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Aurora Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs in Aurora can earn tips, especially when working in restaurants where they interact with customers at sushi bars. Typical tip earnings can be an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Sushi Chef Salary in Aurora vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $21.85 per hour, translating to approximately $45,448 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Aurora earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $24.25 and an annual salary of $50,440.
This higher earning potential in Aurora reflects local demand and the cost of living in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Aurora for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas to Aurora also offer competitive wages for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown Aurora: $25.00 per hour
- Southlands: $24.50 per hour
These sectors provide opportunities with salaries that may slightly exceed the city average, making them worthwhile areas to consider for employment.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Aurora?
Several key factors impact the salary a Sushi Chef can expect in Aurora:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined skills in sushi preparation and presentation command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotel sushi bars, or specialty sushi venues typically offers better pay than casual dining spots.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary credentials, sushi-specific certifications, or formal education can positively influence earnings.
- Responsibility and Job Role: Sushi Chefs managing the kitchen or supervising other staff usually earn more than junior chefs.
- Local Market Demand: Aurora’s growing culinary scene supports higher wages for skilled Sushi Chefs due to increased competition among restaurants.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Aurora
To start a career as a Sushi Chef in Aurora, consider the following steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Enroll in a Culinary Arts Program at Community College of Aurora, which offers comprehensive training including sushi preparation techniques.
- Specialized Training Workshops: Participate in Sushi Chef Training at Sushi Den to develop traditional and modern sushi-making skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Securing ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of food safety protocols critical for any culinary professional.
- Pursue Advanced Certification: Aim for the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential offered by the American Culinary Federation for specialized expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in restaurants or as an apprentice under experienced Sushi Chefs to build hands-on skills and professional connections.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Aurora
Several local restaurants actively seek skilled Sushi Chefs, including:
- Sushi Katsu
- Sushi-Rama
- Jett Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Aurora Work At
Sushi Chefs in Aurora typically work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places often offer steady hours but might pay moderate wages compared to high-end venues.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Sushi Bars: These establishments usually pay more, valuing higher skill levels and presentation finesse.
- Hotels and Resorts with Sushi Bars: Salaries might be higher due to the upscale clientele and volume of business.
- Fast Casual Sushi Outlets: These might provide more entry-level opportunities but usually at lower wages.
Salary differences depend heavily on the prestige of the venue, the clientele served, and the chef’s responsibilities within the kitchen.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Aurora for Sushi Chefs
If you're exploring similar career paths in hospitality related to sushi and culinary arts, consider the following roles:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, all of which offer alternative or advancement routes within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Aurora
Sushi Chefs working in Aurora should be aware of local and state labor laws to ensure compliance with employment standards and tax obligations.
- Official information on labor laws and regulations can be found at the Colorado government website.
- The City of Aurora’s official website provides additional resources for local business regulations and worker protections.