Sushi Chef Salary in Durham, NC
Sushi Chefs in Durham, NC, earn approximately $17.75 per hour, which breaks down to about $710.00 per week, $3,076.67 per month, and $36,920.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Durham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive growth and opportunities for those entering or advancing within this position.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Durham can vary depending on experience and specialty, but here is a general range of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.31 | $572.40 | $2,476.80 | $29,740.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.75 | $710.00 | $3,066.67 | $36,920.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.01 | $880.40 | $3,806.93 | $45,780.80 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Durham Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do not earn direct tips as their work is more focused on food preparation rather than direct customer service. However, depending on the establishment, some may receive gratuities as part of a shared tipping pool, but this is not guaranteed.
Sushi Chef Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn on average about $18.54 per hour, which translates to roughly $38,563.20 per year.
In comparison, Sushi Chefs in Durham earn slightly below the national average at $17.75 per hour and $36,920.00 annually. This variation can be influenced by local market factors and the cost of living in Durham.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Sushi Chefs
Nearby cities offer slightly different salary levels for Sushi Chefs:
- Cary, NC: $20.79 per hour
- Raleigh, NC: $19.40 per hour
Cary leads the nearby areas with the highest average hourly pay for Sushi Chefs, offering a stronger earning potential than Durham or Raleigh.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Durham?
Several important factors help shape the salary of a Sushi Chef in Durham.
- Experience and Expertise: Chefs with more years of experience and advanced skills in sushi preparation and presentation command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or specialty sushi bars tend to offer better wages than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Skill Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) can demonstrate professionalism and increase salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend hours, as well as overtime, can lead to additional income.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Durham
Becoming a successful Sushi Chef involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Institutions like Durham Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program and Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational and specialized training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Certification ensures proper handling and safety of food, a critical requirement in the industry.
- Acquire Sushi-Specific Credentials: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential offered by the American Culinary Federation validates expertise in sushi preparation.
- Gain Practical Experience: Apprenticeship or entry roles in sushi kitchens build the hands-on skills necessary to advance.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Durham
Durham features a variety of establishments hiring skilled Sushi Chefs, including:
- M Restaurant Group LLC
- Kanki Home of Steaks and Sushi
- CO Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Durham Work At
Sushi Chefs find employment across different types of venues comprising the local culinary scene, such as:
- High-End and Fine Dining Restaurants: These often offer higher salaries given quality expectations and specialized skills required.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally provide moderate pay but offer more entry-level opportunities.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: May provide steady employment and benefits alongside competitive pay.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary levels based on skill demand and customer experience involved.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Sushi Chefs
For those interested in roles similar to Sushi Chef, here are some related career options within the hospitality field:
These include Chef, Head Chef, and Chef de Cuisine – roles that require culinary skills in broader food preparation and kitchen management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Durham
Understanding employment regulations and tax responsibilities is essential for Sushi Chefs working in Durham.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on workplace laws and employee protections.
- Consult the North Carolina state government site for region-specific labor regulations and guidance.