Sushi Chef in Boulder, CO
Sushi Chefs in Boulder, CO, in 2026, earn approximately $24.25 per hour, which translates to about $970.00 per week, $4,203.33 per month, and $50,440.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Boulder is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the culinary sector focused on Japanese cuisine.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Boulder depends on experience, skillset, and the establishment, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings for various experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.93 | $837.20 | $3,625.57 | $43,506.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.25 | $970.00 | $4,203.33 | $50,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.09 | $1,123.60 | $4,866.27 | $58,307.20 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Boulder Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their base salary. It is common to make an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and customer volume. Tips can significantly supplement a Sushi Chef’s income, especially in busy restaurants and high-end dining settings.
Sushi Chef Salary in Boulder vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of about $21.85 per hour, equating to roughly $45,448 per year.
In contrast, Sushi Chefs in Boulder make slightly more, with about $24.25 per hour and $50,440 annually. This difference reflects Boulder’s culinary scene and cost of living premiums.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas around Boulder show varied pay rates for Sushi Chefs:
- Central Boulder: $24.25 per hour
- Downtown Boulder: $23.53 per hour
Working in Central Boulder tends to offer slightly higher earnings compared to Downtown.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Boulder?
Several factors influence how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Boulder:
- Experience and Expertise: Seasoned Sushi Chefs with mastery of sushi techniques and ingredient preparation command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and sushi bars generally pay more than casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized skills such as knife handling, fish butchery, and food safety certifications add to earning potential.
- Reputation and Clientele: Chefs known for unique sushi offerings or working in popular spots can command better compensation.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Boulder
Becoming a successful Sushi Chef in Boulder involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider courses at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder for comprehensive culinary training with a sustainability focus.
- Participate in Sushi Making Classes: Cozymeal offers hands-on sushi making classes in Boulder teaching both traditional techniques and modern variations.
- Obtain Essential Certifications: Food safety certifications like ServSafe are crucial for safe handling and preparation of sushi.
- Earn Professional Credentials: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential by the American Culinary Federation can validate your sushi preparation skills and increase job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Boulder
Some of the top restaurants in Boulder looking for skilled Sushi Chefs include:
- Hapa Sushi Grill & Sake Bar
- Frasca Food and Wine
- Blackbelly Market
- Oak at Fourteenth
- The Kitchen Boulder
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Boulder Work At
Sushi Chefs find jobs in a variety of restaurant settings, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues typically offer higher salaries and tips due to their upscale clientele and sophisticated menus.
- Casual Dining and Sushi Bars: While salaries may be slightly lower, these establishments provide steady work and valuable experience.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: Working in hospitality venues can mean steadier hours and sometimes additional benefits.
The type of establishment plays a major role in salary, with more prestigious restaurants generally paying more and offering better advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in roles similar to Sushi Chef, here are a few related positions to consider:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Partie, which involve culinary expertise and kitchen leadership similar to Sushi Chef roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Boulder
Sushi Chefs in Boulder should be aware of local and state labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and fair treatment.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for comprehensive information on state labor laws and regulations.
- Check out the Official website of Boulder County for resources on local employment laws and community services.