Sushi Chef Salary in Eugene, OR
Sushi Chefs in Eugene, OR, in 2026, earn approximately $20.17 per hour, which translates to about $806.80 per week, $3,496.13 per month, and $41,953.60 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Eugene is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive and expanding market for skilled Japanese cuisine professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Eugene, OR?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Eugene varies with experience and establishment, but the following table provides a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.31 | $732.40 | $3,169.07 | $38,028.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.17 | $806.80 | $3,496.13 | $41,953.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.59 | $903.60 | $3,912.40 | $46,987.20 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Eugene Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, often adding an extra $10 per hour or more to their income from customer gratuities, especially at upscale or busy sushi bars.
Sushi Chef Salary in Eugene vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average hourly wage of $21.28 and about $44,262.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Eugene earn slightly less per hour and annually, earning $20.17 per hour and $41,953.60 per year.
This difference may reflect local living costs and the scale of dining establishments in Eugene compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Eugene for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas with competitive salaries for Sushi Chefs include:
- Downtown: $20.00 per hour
- South Eugene: $19.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Eugene may offer slightly better pay, likely due to higher restaurant traffic and upscale dining venues.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Eugene?
Several factors impact how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Eugene:
- Experience and Mastery: Chefs with more years specializing in sushi and advanced knife skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and exclusive sushi bars often pay more than casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of traditional techniques and certifications can increase earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts might result in overtime pay or tips.
- Reputation and Demand: High-demand chefs or those with a strong clientele may negotiate better salaries.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Eugene
If you're aiming to become a Sushi Chef in Eugene, consider the following steps:
- Pursue Culinary Arts Training: Programs such as Lane Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational culinary skills including sushi preparation.
- Specialized Courses: Though located in Portland, Oregon Culinary Institute offers focused courses on Japanese cuisine and sushi-making, which can be beneficial.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: A Food Handler's Permit is required by Oregon, ensuring knowledge of safe food handling.
- Get Recognized Certification: The ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and favored by employers in the restaurant industry.
- Gain Experience: Starting as a kitchen apprentice or line cook is a common path to honing sushi skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Eugene
Some prominent Eugene-area establishments hiring Sushi Chefs include:
- Makoto Japanese Restaurant
- Sushi Pure
- Izumi Sushi and Grill
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Eugene Work At
Sushi Chefs commonly work in various dining settings such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often the highest-paying venues with emphasis on skill and presentation.
- Casual Japanese or Asian Eateries: Typically offer moderate pay but steady hours.
- Fast-Casual Sushi Bars: These establishments may offer lower salaries but can provide valuable experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Where chefs especially skilled in sushi might command premium wages.
The type of establishment can greatly affect earnings, with upscale and specialty venues usually offering the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Eugene for Sushi Chefs
If you're exploring career options linked to Sushi Chef, consider similar roles that utilize culinary and hospitality skills.
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, offering varied responsibilities and salary ranges within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Eugene
Sushi Chefs should stay informed about local labor laws and tax guidelines to ensure compliance and proper wage management.
- The Oregon official government website provides comprehensive information on state regulations, labor rights, and permits.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website offers resources on federal labor standards and employment laws.