Sushi Chef Salary in Birmingham, AL
Sushi Chefs in Birmingham, AL, earn approximately $14.94 per hour, amounting to about $597.60 per week, $2,589.60 per month, and $31,075.20 per year.
The job market for Sushi Chefs is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled professionals in this culinary specialty in Birmingham.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Birmingham, AL?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Birmingham varies with experience level and workplace. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different stages of their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.51 | $460.40 | $1,987.73 | $23,852.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.94 | $597.60 | $2,589.60 | $31,075.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.07 | $762.80 | $3,289.87 | $39,665.60 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Birmingham, AL Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often receive tips as part of their compensation, particularly in restaurants where direct interaction with customers occurs. They can earn approximately an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, enhancing their overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Birmingham, AL vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn about $14.81 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,804.80 per year.
Comparatively, Sushi Chefs in Birmingham earn slightly more by the hour at $14.94, translating into a yearly salary of $31,075.20. This indicates that Birmingham offers a competitive salary relative to the national average for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Birmingham for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas with higher average hourly wages for Sushi Chefs include:
- Mountain Brook: $15.50 per hour
- Vestavia Hills: $17.60 per hour
These nearby cities provide higher pay scales that Sushi Chefs in Birmingham might consider, reflecting localized demand and cost of living differences.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Birmingham?
Several important factors affect the salary of Sushi Chefs in Birmingham:
- Experience Level: More experience often leads to higher pay, with top Sushi Chefs earning well above entry-level wages.
- Skill Specialty: Expertise in intricate sushi preparation and knowledge of Japanese cuisine can elevate earning potential.
- Type of Restaurant: Exclusive sushi bars and fine dining establishments typically pay better than casual or fast-casual spots.
- Location: Working in higher-paying neighborhoods or nearby upscale cities like Vestavia Hills can increase earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Holding professional certifications or completing culinary courses can positively influence salary offers.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Birmingham, AL
Becoming a successful Sushi Chef in Birmingham involves several actionable steps to build credentials and experience.
- Education and Culinary Training: Enroll in culinary programs such as the Jefferson State Community College Culinary and Hospitality Institute which offers courses in international cuisine including sushi preparation, or the Culinary Arts Program at Lawson State Community College with Asian cuisine specialization.
- Certifications: Obtain food safety certifications like ServSafe Certification, often required by employers, and pursue professional credentials such as Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) to demonstrate sushi expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work as an apprentice or junior chef under experienced Sushi Chefs to learn hands-on techniques.
- Networking: Connecting with local sushi communities and participating in culinary events can open job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Birmingham, AL
Several notable restaurants and sushi establishments in Birmingham actively seek skilled Sushi Chefs:
- Blue Sushi Sake Grill
- STIX
- Jinsei Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Birmingham Work At
Sushi Chefs in Birmingham commonly work in various types of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer the highest salaries and opportunities for creative sushi presentation.
- Casual Dining Spots: Provide steadier work hours, with moderate pay scales.
- Sushi Bars and Specialty Restaurants: Focus on sushi cuisine exclusively, potentially offering tips and performance bonuses.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments might provide benefits and higher wages due to increased clientele and standards.
The nature and prestige of the establishment significantly affect the salary and growth opportunities for Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Birmingham, AL for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in careers adjacent to Sushi Chef roles, consider these related positions which share culinary skill sets:
This includes Chef, Head Chef, and Chef de Cuisine roles, all of which build on culinary arts experience and can offer expanded salary prospects.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Birmingham, AL
Sushi Chefs should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and city labor laws and taxation to ensure compliance and safeguard their employment rights.
- Check the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide guidelines on wages, overtime, and working conditions.
- Visit the State of Alabama's Department of Labor website for state-specific employment standards and worker protections.
- The City of Birmingham's official website provides local ordinances and employment resources relevant to workers in the city.