Sushi Chef Salary in Des-Plaines, IL
Sushi Chefs in Des-Plaines, IL, in 2026, earn approximately $20.31 per hour, translating to about $812.40 per week, $3,520.40 per month, and $42,244.80 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Des-Plaines is growing at an estimated rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this specialized culinary field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Des-Plaines, IL?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Des-Plaines can vary based on experience, skill level, and place of employment. Below is a detailed breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.51 | $620.40 | $2,683.60 | $32,220.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.31 | $812.40 | $3,520.40 | $42,244.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.60 | $1,064.00 | $4,598.67 | $55,328.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Des-Plaines Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs generally do receive tips as part of their earnings, especially in establishments where they interact directly with customers at sushi bars or counters. On average, they can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, enhancing their overall compensation significantly.
Sushi Chef Salary in Des-Plaines vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn about $20.31 per hour or $42,244.80 annually, which aligns closely with the average pay observed in Des-Plaines.
This parity suggests that Sushi Chefs in Des-Plaines receive competitive wages comparable to the broader U.S. market, factoring in local cost of living and demand for skilled sushi culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des-Plaines for Sushi Chefs
Nearby cities offer slightly varying salary rates for Sushi Chefs:
- Oswego, IL: $22.36 per hour
- Chicago, IL: $20.99 per hour
Oswego stands out as the highest-paying nearby area, potentially due to the presence of upscale dining establishments or higher living costs.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Des-Plaines?
Several key factors affect how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Des-Plaines:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sushi Chefs typically command higher salaries, especially those skilled in advanced knife techniques and creative sushi presentation.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale Japanese restaurants, luxury hotels, or high-end sushi bars often results in better pay compared to casual or fast-casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing certifications such as the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential can enhance earning potential.
- Location within the City: Salaries may vary between neighborhoods depending on the local clientele and business volume.
- Additional Responsibilities: Sushi Chefs who take on managerial duties or inventory responsibilities may receive higher wages.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Des-Plaines
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Des-Plaines involves several pathways to gain the necessary skills and qualifications:
- Formal Culinary Education: Enrolling in comprehensive culinary arts programs like the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program or the Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute in nearby Chicago, which offer courses covering Japanese cuisine and sushi preparation.
- Food Safety Certification: Acquiring the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for compliance with Illinois health regulations.
- Specialized Certification: Obtaining the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential from recognized institutions can validate professional sushi-making skills.
- Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training: Many Sushi Chefs gain experience by training under seasoned professionals in sushi restaurants.
- Building Skill Set: Focus on mastering knife skills, rice preparation, fish handling, and presentation techniques.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Des-Plaines
The local job market includes a variety of employers actively seeking talented Sushi Chefs, such as:
- Kyoto Garden Modern Japanese Restaurant
- Sake Sushi and Grill
- Sushi Tsuki
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Des-Plaines Work At
Sushi Chefs in Des-Plaines typically find employment in different types of establishments, each influencing earning potential:
- Fine Dining and Upscale Japanese Restaurants: These venues offer higher salaries and the chance to work with premium ingredients.
- Casual Dining and Sushi Bars: Often provide steady employment with moderate compensation and opportunities for tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: Employ Sushi Chefs as part of their culinary teams, sometimes offering benefits and consistent hours.
- Buffet and Fast Casual Chains: Usually offer lower pay but provide quicker entry into the workforce.
The type of establishment directly influences salary, work environment, and opportunities for career advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des-Plaines for Sushi Chefs
For those interested in similar career paths within the hospitality and culinary industries, there are alternative positions that share relevant skills and experience requirements.
These include Head Chef, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager roles, which leverage culinary expertise and management skills similar to those of Sushi Chefs.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Des-Plaines
Sushi Chefs should familiarize themselves with labor laws and taxation requirements relevant to their employment:
- Federal labor standards and rights are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Illinois-specific employment security, wage, and tax information, visit the Illinois Department of Employment Security.