Sushi Chef Salary in Cambridge, MA
Sushi Chefs in Cambridge, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $21.38 per hour, which translates to about $855.20 per week, $3,705.87 per month, and $44,470.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Cambridge is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for skilled culinary professionals specializing in Japanese cuisine and sushi preparation.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Cambridge, MA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Cambridge varies based on experience, skill level, and the hiring establishment. Below is a general breakdown of earnings across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.39 | $575.60 | $2,487.87 | $29,911.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.38 | $775.20 | $3,337.60 | $40,310.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.11 | $1,044.40 | $4,526.93 | $54,308.80 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs generally do not earn significant tips as their work is mostly behind the sushi bar and in the kitchen. However, some high-end or specialty restaurants might share some tip pools with Sushi Chefs, possibly adding an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, but this is not guaranteed across all venues.
Sushi Chef Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $19.38 per hour, with an annual income close to $40,310.40.
In Cambridge, Sushi Chefs earn a slightly higher wage at $21.38 per hour and an annual salary of around $44,470.40. This reflects Cambridge's higher cost of living and the city's vibrant and competitive culinary market demanding advanced sushi skills.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer varied pay scales for Sushi Chefs, influenced by neighborhood affluence and restaurant prestige:
- Harvard Square: $22.44 per hour
- Kendall Square: $21.38 per hour
Among these, Harvard Square offers the highest hourly pay, likely due to its busy dining scene and more upscale restaurants, making it a lucrative area for Sushi Chefs.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several factors play a key role in determining a Sushi Chef’s salary in Cambridge:
- Experience and Expertise: Highly skilled Sushi Chefs with years of experience and mastery of sushi techniques command higher wages.
- Specialized Skills: Knowledge of diverse sushi styles, knife skills, and fish selection can significantly improve earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Employment in fine dining or upscale sushi restaurants typically offers better pay than fast casual or chain Japanese eateries.
- Certifications and Training: Holding recognized culinary certifications may contribute to higher salaries.
- Demand and Location: Being in a culinary hotspot like Cambridge or nearby neighborhoods can boost pay due to higher living costs and competition.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Cambridge
To become a Sushi Chef in Cambridge, aspiring chefs should consider several steps to build their culinary career:
- Professional Culinary Programs: Enroll in a program such as the Professional Chef’s Program at Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, which includes training in international cuisines and sushi preparation.
- Certificate Programs: Boston University Metropolitan College offers a Certificate Program in Culinary Arts, covering multiple cooking techniques including sushi making.
- Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe are essential for handling food safely in restaurants.
- Specialized Sushi Certification: Obtaining the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates sushi preparation skills.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Apprenticeships or internships at sushi restaurants enable practical learning from experienced chefs.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Cambridge
Cambridge features a dynamic sushi restaurant scene with several prominent employers:
- Cafe Sushi
- Umami Omakase and Sake Bar
- Pagu
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Cambridge Work At
Sushi Chefs find employment in various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer the highest salaries due to upscale clientele and sophisticated menus.
- Specialty Sushi Bars and Omakase Spots: Often provide good pay and opportunities to showcase advanced skills.
- Casual and Fast Casual Japanese Restaurants: Tend to pay moderately but offer more entry-level opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations may offer stable salaries and benefits but vary by location.
Each establishment type shapes the salary and career growth potential according to its scale, clientele, and prestige.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Sushi Chefs
Professionals interested in roles connected to Sushi Chef might also consider these related careers:
These roles include Sous Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, all of which involve complementary culinary leadership and operational skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Cambridge
Sushi Chefs in Cambridge need to stay informed of labor laws and tax responsibilities relevant to their employment status. Helpful resources include: