Sushi Chef Salary in Elizabeth, NJ
Sushi Chefs in Elizabeth, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $21.90 per hour, which translates to about $876.00 per week, $3,796.00 per month, and $45,552.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Elizabeth is growing steadily by about 5% per year, reflecting positive prospects and increasing opportunities in the culinary sector focused on Japanese cuisine.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Elizabeth, NJ?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Elizabeth can vary depending on experience and employer type, but here's an overview based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.16 | $606.40 | $2,615.47 | $31,385.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.07 | $802.80 | $3,479.20 | $41,745.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.56 | $1,062.40 | $4,595.47 | $55,164.80 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Elizabeth Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often work in customer-facing environments where earning tips is common. They can earn an estimated extra $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly supplement their base pay depending on the establishment.
Sushi Chef Salary in Elizabeth vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn around $20.07 per hour, or about $41,745.60 per year.
Comparing this with Elizabeth, NJ, Sushi Chefs earn slightly more, around $21.90 per hour and $45,552.00 annually, indicating a competitive salary environment likely influenced by local demand and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Elizabeth for Sushi Chefs
Nearby cities offering higher salaries for Sushi Chefs include:
- Brigantine: $24.90 per hour
- Hackensack: $23.83 per hour
Exploring opportunities in Brigantine or Hackensack could provide higher earnings for experienced Sushi Chefs willing to commute.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Elizabeth?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Elizabeth depends on several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: Advanced skills in sushi preparation, knife techniques, and presentation boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or specialty sushi bars tend to pay more than fast-casual spots.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary training or certifications can lead to higher wages.
- Shift Hours and Tips: Evening or weekend shifts may offer better tip opportunities.
- Market Demand: Growing popularity of Japanese cuisine in Elizabeth can increase salary offers.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Elizabeth
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Elizabeth involves several important steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Union County College provide comprehensive instruction, focusing on sushi making techniques.
- Specialized Sushi Training: Enroll in the Sushi Chef Training at Sushi Chef Institute to master traditional and modern sushi culinary skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential to ensure proper food safety practices.
- Gain Certification: Earning a Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential demonstrates professional competency and can enhance job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Elizabeth
Some key employers in Elizabeth seeking skilled Sushi Chefs include:
- Miso Sushi
- Sushi House
- Sakura Dojo
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Elizabeth Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find roles at a variety of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest salaries due to premium menu pricing and skilled culinary demands.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These may provide steady work but generally offer lower salaries and tips compared to fine dining.
- Sushi Bars and Specialty Japanese Eateries: Often focus specifically on sushi preparation, offering competitive salaries and good tipping opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may provide more benefits and higher base pay.
The type of establishment greatly affects salary potential, with more upscale or specialized venues paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Elizabeth for Sushi Chefs
If you're interested in roles related to Sushi Chef, consider these similar careers that involve culinary skills within hospitality:
These include Chef, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, which similarly require culinary expertise and offer varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Elizabeth
Sushi Chefs should be informed about local and federal labor regulations and taxation:
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor laws and employment guidance.
- For state-specific regulations, the State of New Jersey official website offers resources on labor laws, worker rights, and tax requirements.