Sushi Chef Salary in Burlington, VT
Sushi Chefs in Burlington, VT, in 2026, earn approximately $17.04 per hour, which translates to about $681.60 per week, $2,953.60 per month, and $35,443.20 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Burlington is growing positively by about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market and increasing opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Burlington, VT?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Burlington varies with experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings based on different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.37 | $574.80 | $2,491.20 | $29,889.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.04 | $681.60 | $2,953.60 | $35,443.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.20 | $808.00 | $3,495.33 | $41,981.60 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Burlington Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs in Burlington typically do earn tips. They can often make an additional $10 to $20 per hour in tips, which significantly supplements their base salary depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Sushi Chef Salary in Burlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn about $19.45 per hour and approximately $40,456 per year.
Compared to the national averages, Sushi Chefs in Burlington earn slightly less, with an hourly rate of $17.04, which equates to an annual salary of about $35,443.20. This difference may stem from local market size and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Burlington for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Sushi Chefs include:
- South End: $19 per hour
- Downtown Burlington: $18.50 per hour
These areas may offer increased earnings due to higher demand and possibly more upscale dining venues.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Burlington?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Burlington can be impacted by several important factors:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sushi Chefs, especially those skilled in advanced techniques, command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end restaurants or specialty sushi bars generally results in better compensation compared to casual dining spots.
- Skills and Certifications: Certified Sushi Chefs or those with additional culinary qualifications may earn more.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts can offer premium pay in some venues.
- Location and Demand: Areas with higher foot traffic or tourist activity often pay more to attract skilled chefs.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Burlington
Launching a career as a Sushi Chef in Burlington involves several key steps:
- Education and Culinary Training: Engaging in formal culinary programs, such as those at the New England Culinary Institute in Montpelier, VT, which includes specialized sushi courses, or the Community College of Vermont’s culinary arts program, can provide foundational skills.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Certification for food safety and the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) from the World Sushi Skills Institute demonstrates competence and commitment to the trade.
- Gain Practical Experience: Apprenticeships or positions in sushi bars allow hands-on learning essential to mastering the craft.
- Develop Knife Skills and Presentation: Sushi preparation demands precision and aesthetic presentation abilities, which improve with practice and mentorship.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Burlington
Several prominent local establishments regularly seek skilled Sushi Chefs, including:
- Sushi Maeda
- Asiana House
- Koto Japanese Steakhouse
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Burlington Work At
Sushi Chefs in Burlington typically find employment across a spectrum of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often offer the highest salaries and opportunities for creative culinary expression.
- Casual and Fast Casual Sushi Bars: Typically pay moderate wages with higher volume service.
- Japanese Steakhouse Chains: Provide stable employment with structured wage scales and benefits.
- Hotels and Resorts: May employ Sushi Chefs for on-site restaurants and events, often with premium pay due to the high service standard.
The type of establishment impacts the salary, with more upscale venues generally offering better compensation and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Burlington for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to Sushi Chefs, consider exploring the following similar roles which also fall within the culinary and hospitality fields:
These include Sous Chef, Head Chef, and Chef de Cuisine positions, which share similar responsibilities and skill sets to those of a Sushi Chef.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Burlington
Sushi Chefs should stay informed about labor regulations and tax responsibilities to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal labor laws and employment regulations, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Vermont-specific labor laws and state resources, consult the Vermont Department of Labor website.