Sushi Chef Salary in Chattanooga, TN
Sushi Chefs in Chattanooga, TN, in 2026, earn approximately $16.67 per hour, which translates to about $666.80 per week, $2,889.47 per month, and $34,673.60 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Chattanooga is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in this specialty culinary field within the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Chattanooga, TN?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Chattanooga varies depending on experience and employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.81 | $552.40 | $2,392.27 | $28,652.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.67 | $666.80 | $2,889.47 | $34,673.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Chattanooga Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their salary, depending on the establishment. Tips can add an approximately extra $5 to $10 per hour when serving customers directly, which can significantly enhance overall earnings.
Sushi Chef Salary in Chattanooga vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $20.36 per hour, translating to about $42,348.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Chattanooga earn slightly less at about $16.67 per hour and $34,673.60 annually. This reflects local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chattanooga for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay for Sushi Chef positions:
- Downtown Chattanooga: $18.16 per hour
- North Shore: $17.60 per hour
Working in Downtown Chattanooga can provide better pay opportunities, likely due to higher restaurant demand and specialization.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Chattanooga?
Several factors impact the earning potential of a Sushi Chef in Chattanooga:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and knowledge of Japanese cuisine command higher wages.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary degrees or specialized sushi-making certifications can boost salary prospects.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or high-volume sushi restaurants typically offers better pay than casual dining venues.
- Tips and Customer Interaction: Sushi Chefs who engage directly with customers often earn tips, increasing total compensation.
- Shift and Hours: Night or weekend shifts might pay higher due to demand and labor availability.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Chattanooga
Launching a career as a Sushi Chef in Chattanooga involves several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Chattanooga State Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive courses including sushi preparation.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certification such as ServSafe Food Handler ensures compliance with health standards.
- Gain Specialty Certifications: The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification enhances professional credentials and career advancement.
- Practice Hands-On Skills: Apprenticeships or internships at sushi restaurants help develop essential skills.
- Continue Learning: Workshops such as those offered by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Continuing Education can refine sushi-making expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Chattanooga
If you're seeking employment as a Sushi Chef, consider these notable employers in Chattanooga:
- Osaka Sushi Steakhouse
- K-VA-T Food City
- Hana Group
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Chattanooga Work At
Sushi Chefs typically work across a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Tend to offer moderate pay but high volume opportunities.
- Fast Casual Sushi Spots: Usually have steady hours but may pay less than fine dining.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide higher wages and tip potential due to premium pricing.
- Buffets and Food Courts: Pay and tips may be lower, but hours can be more flexible.
The establishment type strongly influences both base salary and tip income for Sushi Chefs in Chattanooga.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chattanooga for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in careers similar to Sushi Chef, here are some related roles to explore:
Related positions include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Cuisine, all involving culinary expertise and potential for career progression within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Chattanooga
Sushi Chefs should be knowledgeable about local and federal labor laws to ensure fair employment practices.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Tennessee for information on state labor regulations and workers' rights.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive federal labor standards, wage laws, and tax guidelines.