Sushi Chef Salary in Kailua, HI
Sushi Chefs in Kailua, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $23.97 per hour, which translates to about $958.80 per week, $4,154.80 per month, and $49,857.60 per year.
The employment outlook for Sushi Chefs in Kailua is promising, with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled culinary professionals specializing in Japanese cuisine in this vibrant community.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Kailua, HI?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Kailua varies with experience, skills, and employer type. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.97 | $958.80 | $4,154.80 | $49,857.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.04 | $1,321.60 | $5,716.53 | $68,723.20 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Kailua Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs in Kailua often earn tips, especially in establishments with direct customer interaction such as sushi bars and upscale dining venues. It is common for them to receive an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, supplementing their base salary significantly on busy days.
Sushi Chef Salary in Kailua vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn about $20.00 per hour, which amounts to approximately $41,600 per year.
Compared to this, Sushi Chefs in Kailua earn a higher hourly wage of $23.97 and an annual salary of around $49,857.60. This difference reflects local demand, living costs, and the premium placed on culinary expertise in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kailua for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer lucrative opportunities for Sushi Chefs, often with higher pay scales:
- Kailua-Kona: $32.27 per hour
- Paia: $34.65 per hour
Locations such as Paia and Kailua-Kona not only provide higher wages but also attract chefs looking for vibrant culinary scenes and tourism-driven diner bases.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Kailua?
Multiple factors influence the salary of a Sushi Chef in Kailua:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and creativity command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or specialized sushi bars tend to pay substantially more than casual dining or fast food locations.
- Location: Establishments in tourist-heavy or affluent neighborhoods typically offer better compensation.
- Culinary Education and Certifications: Formal training and recognized food safety certifications can enhance salary prospects.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Kailua
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Kailua requires a combination of education, practical experience, and certifications.
Many aspiring Sushi Chefs enroll in culinary programs such as those offered by the Hawaii Culinary Education Foundation, which specializes in sushi preparation and Japanese cuisine through workshops and seminars.
Additionally, the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program provides comprehensive training in Asian cuisine, including sushi making.
Food safety knowledge is crucial, so earning certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and obtaining the mandatory Hawaii State Food Handler's Permit are essential steps.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Kailua
Several prominent restaurants in Kailua actively seek skilled Sushi Chefs:
- Tokoname Sushi Restaurant
- Kikka Sushi
- Ninja Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Kailua Work At
Sushi Chefs find employment in a variety of settings including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offering higher pay and focused on exceptional quality and presentation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: Often with steady hours but lower wages compared to upscale venues.
- Sushi Bars and Japanese Specialty Restaurants: Tend to offer competitive wages and opportunities for tips.
The type of establishment influences salary due to varying service expectations and customer bases.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kailua for Sushi Chefs
If you are considering roles similar to that of a Sushi Chef, there are several related positions in the hospitality industry worth exploring.
These include the Head Chef, Commis Chef, and Chef positions, all of which share culinary skill requirements and offer varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Kailua
Sushi Chefs in Kailua must be aware of both federal and state labor laws that govern employment conditions, wages, and taxation.
- For federal labor laws, visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- For specific information regarding labor standards and regulations in Hawaii, the State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website provides guidance.
- Local employment rules and updates can be found on the City and County of Honolulu official website.