Sushi Chef Salary in Clovis, CA
Sushi Chefs in Clovis, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $20.14 per hour, which translates to about $805.60 per week, $3,490.93 per month, and $41,891.20 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Clovis is growing at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and growth in this culinary field within the area.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Clovis, CA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Clovis can vary depending on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.50 | $700.00 | $3,033.33 | $36,400.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.14 | $805.60 | $3,490.93 | $41,891.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.50 | $940.00 | $4,066.67 | $48,880.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Clovis Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, especially in establishments where they interact directly with customers or prepare sushi at the sushi bar. Tips can average an extra $5 to $10 per hour, significantly boosting overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Clovis vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of about $19.80 per hour, which converts to roughly $41,184 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Sushi Chefs in Clovis earn slightly above average at around $20.14 per hour and $41,891 annually. This difference may reflect local demand, cost of living, and the quality of culinary establishments in Clovis.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clovis for Sushi Chefs
Looking at nearby locations, Sushi Chef salaries can differ:
- Old Town Clovis: $21.00 per hour
- North Clovis: $20.50 per hour
These areas typically offer higher wages compared to central Clovis, which can be enticing for Sushi Chefs considering commute and pay benefits.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Clovis?
Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and knowledge of Japanese cuisine tend to earn higher salaries.
Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or specialty Japanese restaurants usually brings better pay than casual dining or fast-food sushi chains.
Certifications and Culinary Education: Formal training and certifications in food safety can boost employability and salary potential.
Work Setting and Responsibilities: Sushi Chefs who handle inventory, ordering, or kitchen management roles alongside food preparation may receive higher compensation.
Tips and Customer Interaction: Income may increase if the Sushi Chef works in front of guests where tipping is common.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Clovis
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Clovis involves a combination of culinary training and practical experience.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Fresno City College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive training with a focus on various cuisines, including sushi preparation. The Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program also provides hands-on education covering essential cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card helps ensure compliance with health regulations, which is required in California.
- Gain Practical Experience: Apprenticeship or work experience in sushi restaurants helps develop necessary skills and build a professional reputation.
- Advance Skills Continuously: Constant learning about traditional and modern sushi techniques, knife skills, and presentation is crucial to career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Clovis
Some prominent employers looking for skilled Sushi Chefs in Clovis include:
- Sakana Japanese Cuisine
- Tokyo Steak House
- Oishii Japanese Cuisine
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Clovis Work At
Sushi Chefs in Clovis typically work in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer higher salaries and require advanced culinary skills, often with a focus on presentation and traditional techniques.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Sushi Bars: These establishments usually provide steadier shifts but lower pay compared to upscale venues.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger scale operations may pay higher wages and provide more benefits.
- Specialty Japanese Restaurants: Such places focus on authenticity and may offer better compensation due to the skill levels required.
The type and prestige of the establishment strongly affect the Sushi Chef's earnings, with more exclusive venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clovis for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in careers similar to Sushi Chef, here are a few related roles in the hospitality industry:
These include Head Chef, Commis Chef, and Chef de Cuisine, all of which involve culinary expertise with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Clovis
Sushi Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations to better manage their employment rights and finances.
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations for detailed state labor laws, including wage rules and work conditions.
- Use the California Employment Development Department for employment services and tax information.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.