Sushi Chef Salary in Jacksonville, FL
Sushi Chefs in Jacksonville, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.82 per hour, which translates to about $752.80 per week, $3,262.13 per month, and $39,145.60 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Jacksonville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in this culinary profession.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Jacksonville, FL?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Jacksonville varies based on experience and expertise. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.82 | $752.80 | $3,262.13 | $39,145.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.90 | $1,036.00 | $4,486.67 | $53,872.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Jacksonville Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, especially in restaurants where they interact directly with customers at sushi bars. They can earn approximately $10 per hour in tips, which significantly supplements their base salary.
Sushi Chef Salary in Jacksonville, FL vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average hourly wage of $19.08, amounting to about $39,686.40 annually.
Comparing this to Jacksonville, FL, Sushi Chefs earn slightly less on average, with an hourly wage of $18.82 and an annual salary of $39,145.60.
This relatively small difference may reflect local cost of living and regional demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jacksonville for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Sushi Chefs include:
- Mandarin: $19.50 per hour
- Downtown: $19.00 per hour
Sushi Chefs working in Mandarin and Downtown Jacksonville can benefit from better wages compared to the city average.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Jacksonville?
Several factors play a role in determining a Sushi Chef's salary:
- Experience: More experienced Sushi Chefs typically command higher pay due to their refined skills and reputation.
- Skills and Specializations: Mastery of advanced techniques, unique sushi presentations, and knowledge of premium ingredients can increase earnings.
- Type of Establishment: High-end sushi restaurants and hotels usually offer better salaries than casual or fast-casual dining venues.
- Location: Working in popular or affluent neighborhoods like Downtown or Mandarin can result in higher wages.
- Certifications: Holding professional certifications can enhance credibility and pay.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Jacksonville
Becoming a Sushi Chef requires a combination of training, certification, and practical experience.
Key steps include:
- Take Cooking Classes: Enroll in sushi-making courses like Sushi Basics for Beginners, which covers fundamentals such as rice preparation and rolling techniques, or the Classic Sushi Collection - Date Night class for more advanced skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure understanding of hygiene and safety standards crucial in food handling.
- Earn Professional Sushi Credentials: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) designation from the American Culinary Federation affirms one's expertise and may boost job prospects and salary.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Apprenticing under established Sushi Chefs or working in Japanese restaurants helps refine skills and build a portfolio.
Continued learning and dedication are key to advancing in this specialty culinary field.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Jacksonville
Some of the notable employers actively hiring Sushi Chefs in Jacksonville include:
- Bento
- Sushi Garden
- The June
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Jacksonville Work At
Sushi Chefs commonly find work in a variety of dining establishments, including:
- Casual Restaurants: Generally offer moderate salaries and are good starting points for gaining experience.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Sushi Bars: Typically provide higher pay and tips, valuing advanced skills and presentation.
- Hotels and Resorts: May pay more due to upscale clientele and prestige associated with their culinary teams.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often pay less but provide steady employment and opportunities for skill development.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence a Sushi Chef's earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jacksonville for Sushi Chefs
For those interested in related careers, here are a few hospitality roles similar to Sushi Chef:
These include Commis Chef, Chef, and Head Chef positions, each involving culinary expertise and offering varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Jacksonville
Sushi Chefs should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment:
- Federal labor laws and employment information can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific state regulations and labor resources are available on the State of Florida's official website.