Sushi Chef Salary in Cicero, IL
Sushi Chefs in Cicero, IL in 2025, earn approximately $20.88 per hour, which amounts to about $835.20 per week, $3,619.20 per month, and $43,430.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Cicero is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities in the culinary field, particularly in Japanese cuisine and sushi preparation.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Cicero, IL?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Cicero varies by experience level and skill, but here’s a breakdown across different stages of a Sushi Chef’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.51 | $620.40 | $2,680.40 | $32,260.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.31 | $812.40 | $3,513.60 | $42,044.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.60 | $1,064.00 | $4,609.33 | $55,328.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Cicero Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips, particularly in restaurants with sushi bars where chefs interact directly with customers. Tips can add an extra $10 or more per hour in earnings, significantly supplementing their base salary.
Sushi Chef Salary in Cicero vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn about $19.90 per hour, which comes to approximately $41,392 per year.
Compared to this, Sushi Chefs in Cicero earn a slightly higher average hourly wage of $20.88 per hour and $43,430.40 annually, reflecting the local culinary market’s demand for skilled Sushi Chefs and possibly the cost of living adjustments in the Chicago-Cicero area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cicero for Sushi Chefs
If you are considering nearby areas, here are the average hourly salaries for Sushi Chefs:
- Oak Park: $20.63 per hour
- Chicago: $20.99 per hour
Chicago, with its vibrant culinary scene, offers the highest pay among nearby areas for Sushi Chefs, while Oak Park also offers competitive salaries close to Cicero’s averages.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Cicero?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Cicero is impacted by various important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with expert knife skills and knowledge of fish quality can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Sushi Chefs working in upscale restaurants or luxury hotel dining often make more than those in casual or fast casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Additional training or certifications in sushi preparation can boost earnings.
- Shift Timing: Working busy dinner shifts or weekends may come with shift differentials that increase pay.
- Customer Interaction and Tips: Sushi Chefs who prepare sushi directly in front of customers tend to earn more through tips, boosting overall income.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Cicero
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Cicero involves several steps to gain relevant skills and credentials:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Enroll in culinary programs with a focus on sushi or Asian cuisine, such as Kendall College Culinary Arts Program or Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute located in nearby Chicago.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is required in Illinois and ensures safe handling of seafood and other ingredients.
- Get Specialized Certifications: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential offered by the Sushi Chef Institute can significantly enhance job prospects.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level positions at sushi restaurants help develop practical knife skills and understanding of sushi preparation.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Cicero
Many local restaurants and companies seek skilled Sushi Chefs, including:
- Sushi by Bou
- Starfish Sushi
- Sea Republic LLC
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Cicero Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in a range of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Sushi Restaurants: These offer steady work but typically pay moderate wages.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Establishments: These locations generally offer higher salaries and greater tip potential due to the premium products and bespoke service.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues may provide better benefits and higher pay for experienced Sushi Chefs.
The type of establishment making a difference in salary is important to consider for career planning in Cicero.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cicero for Sushi Chefs
If you are exploring career options related to being a Sushi Chef, consider these similar roles:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Partie roles, each carrying different responsibilities and salary ranges within kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Cicero
Sushi Chefs should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor regulations and tax obligations to protect their employment rights and financial interests.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for broad rules on wages, overtime, and workplace safety.
- Check the State of Illinois Department of Employment Security website for state-specific labor laws and employment resources.