Sushi Chef Salary in Cary, NC
Sushi Chefs in Cary, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $20.58 per hour, which translates to about $823.20 per week, $3,567.20 per month, and $42,806.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Cary is growing at a healthy rate of about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market for skilled Japanese cuisine chefs in the area.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Cary varies based on experience and expertise. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings based on experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.25 | $770.00 | $3,320.83 | $39,995.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.35 | $974.00 | $4,196.17 | $50,548.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Cary Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs generally earn tips in many dining settings, especially in restaurants where chefs prepare sushi directly in front of customers. They can make an extra approximately $10 per hour in tips, enhancing their overall earnings significantly.
Sushi Chef Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of about $18.54 per hour and $38,563.20 per year. Compared to this average, Sushi Chefs in Cary, NC, make slightly more, earning around $20.58 per hour and $42,806.40 annually. This reflects both regional market conditions and the demand for skilled Sushi Chefs in Cary.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown Cary: $21.00 per hour
- Preston: $20.75 per hour
Those working in Downtown Cary can expect the highest pay in the vicinity, which may be attributed to the concentration of upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Cary?
Several factors impact how much a Sushi Chef in Cary can earn:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced chefs, especially those skilled in intricate sushi techniques and knife skills, tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and specialty sushi bars typically offer better pay than casual dining or fast-casual places.
- Certifications and Training: Holding recognized culinary certifications or completing formal training can enhance salary potential.
- Customer Interaction and Tip Potential: Chefs who engage customers directly and perform sushi preparation tableside often earn significant tips.
- Local Demand and Competition: The number of available sushi restaurants and the demand for Japanese cuisine affect wage levels.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Cary
Becoming a successful Sushi Chef in Cary involves a combination of training, experience, and certification. Key steps include:
- Enroll in Specialized Classes: Sushi Making Classes by Cozymeal in Cary offer hands-on learning for foundational skills like sushi rice preparation and knife techniques taught by professional chefs.
- Complete Formal Culinary Programs: Sushi Chef Training at Wake Technical Community College provides comprehensive education in culinary arts with a focus on Japanese cuisine.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential to ensure proper food handling and safety practices.
- Consider Earning the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) Credential: Offered by the American Culinary Federation, this certification verifies advanced knowledge and skill in sushi preparation.
- Gain Practical Experience: Securing apprenticeships or entry-level positions can help develop skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Cary
Several well-known employers in Cary are actively seeking skilled Sushi Chefs, including:
- M Restaurant Group LLC
- Sushi Thai Cary
- O-KU Charlotte
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Cary Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in various types of establishments, each influencing salary potential differently:
- Casual Restaurants: Offer consistent work but usually provide lower base salaries and tips compared to upscale venues.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Sushi Bars: Tend to offer higher wages and better tip income due to upscale clientele and premium menu offerings.
- Hotels and Resort Restaurants: Often pay more due to higher service expectations and larger operations.
- Catering and Private Events: Provide opportunities for freelance or specialty sushi chefs to earn good income depending on event frequency.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly impact the overall compensation package for Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Sushi Chefs
Those interested in related roles within hospitality and culinary fields may consider these careers:
These roles include Chef, Head Chef, and Chef de Cuisine, all of which share culinary skills and offer varied advancement and salary opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Cary
Sushi Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work in Cary:
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for national labor laws and workplace regulations.
- Consult the North Carolina Department of Labor site for state-specific labor rules and safety resources.
- Check the Town of Cary official website for local business regulations, labor policies, and community information.