Sushi Chef in Jackson, MS
Sushi Chefs in Jackson, MS, in 2025, earn approximately $17.70 per hour, which translates to about $708.00 per week, $3,068.00 per month, and $36,816.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Jackson is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing interest and appreciation for Japanese cuisine and sushi dining experiences in the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Jackson, MS?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Jackson varies depending on experience and employer, but the following breakdown gives a view across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.67 | $586.80 | $2,538.00 | $30,456.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.70 | $708.00 | $3,038.00 | $36,816.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.66 | $866.40 | $3,753.60 | $45,052.80 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Jackson Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs do sometimes earn tips in addition to their salary, especially when working in establishments where there is direct interaction with customers or in more upscale dining settings. Tips can provide an additional approximate $5 to $10 per hour depending on the restaurant’s tipping culture and customer volume.
Sushi Chef Salary in Jackson vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $17.82 per hour, translating to about $37,065.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Jackson earn slightly less at about $17.70 per hour and $36,816.00 annually, which reflects local cost of living and market conditions for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jackson for Sushi Chefs
Sushi Chefs looking for the best pay near Jackson can consider these areas:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Fondren: $19.00 per hour
Working in Fondren offers the highest hourly rate among nearby areas, which may correlate with more upscale dining venues and higher customer traffic.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Jackson?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Jackson can be influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sushi Chefs, especially those skilled in knife techniques and traditional sushi preparation, command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale Japanese restaurants, sushi bars, and hotels typically pay more than casual or fast-casual dining venues.
- Certification and Education: Holding culinary certifications, like the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC), can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may attract higher compensation or shift differentials.
- Local Market Demand: Increased interest in sushi and Japanese cuisine in Jackson raises demand for skilled Sushi Chefs, impacting wages positively.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Jackson
To become a Sushi Chef in Jackson, aspiring professionals can take several steps to improve their credentials and increase employability:
- Complete Culinary Training Programs: Local options include the Culinary Arts Technology program at Hinds Community College offering degrees and certificates in culinary arts, and the Culinary Arts Program at Jones College which provides certificates and Associate degrees focused on food service and culinary skills.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Certification is essential for safe food handling and often required by employers.
- Specialized Sushi Certifications: Programs like the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) offered by the American Culinary Federation validate expertise in sushi preparation and Japanese cuisine.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working under skilled Sushi Chefs or in Japanese restaurants builds hands-on skills and professional reputation.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Jackson
Jackson has several prominent establishments actively seeking skilled Sushi Chefs:
- Sakura Bana
- EDO Japanese Restaurant
- Ichiban Chinese Buffet
- Osaka Japanese Restaurant
- Bonsai Japanese Steakhouse
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Jackson Work At
Sushi Chefs in Jackson typically find employment in a variety of establishment types including:
- Fine Dining and Upscale Japanese Restaurants: These often offer the highest salaries and opportunities for tips due to premium customer experience and specialty menus.
- Casual and Fast Casual Sushi Bars: These establishments may pay less but often provide steady work and opportunities to develop skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: Culinary teams in hospitality venues generally offer competitive pay and benefits.
The type of establishment can make a significant difference in the compensation and professional growth opportunities available to a Sushi Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jackson for Sushi Chefs
Those interested in culinary roles similar to Sushi Chef may consider the following related positions:
These include Head Chef, Commis Chef, and Chef roles, which require related culinary skills and offer different salary ranges and career pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Jackson
Sushi Chefs should be familiar with federal, state, and local labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their employment rights.
- For comprehensive labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Information specific to Mississippi employment laws is available at the Mississippi Department of Employment Security.
- Local work regulations and services can be found on the City of Jackson official website.