Sushi Chef Salary in Lawton, OK
Sushi Chefs in Lawton, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which translates to about $600.00 per week, $2,600.00 per month, and $31,200.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Lawton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Lawton, OK?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Lawton varies depending on experience and the employer, but below is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.79 | $511.60 | $2,209.87 | $26,511.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.98 | $719.20 | $3,102.93 | $37,358.40 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Lawton Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, especially in more upscale or traditional Japanese dining settings. They can make an extra $10 to $20 per day in tips alone, adding a valuable supplement to their base salary.
Sushi Chef Salary in Lawton vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of about $19.90 per hour, which corresponds to approximately $41,392 per year.
Compared to this, Sushi Chefs in Lawton earn below the national average, with an hourly wage of $15.00 and an annual income around $31,200.
This difference can be attributed to various factors such as regional cost of living, employer size, and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lawton for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown Lawton: $15.50 per hour
- West Lawton: $17.60 per hour
West Lawton offers the highest pay among these regions, making it a favorable area for Sushi Chefs seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Lawton?
Several important factors can influence the salary of a Sushi Chef in Lawton:
- Experience & Skills: More experience and advanced sushi preparation skills often lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale Japanese restaurants generally pay better than casual or fast-casual spots.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and specialized sushi chef credentials can boost salary potential.
- Location: Employers in higher-paying areas such as West Lawton might offer better compensation.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Popular restaurants with loyal clientele can afford to pay more to attract skilled chefs.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Lawton
Becoming a skilled Sushi Chef in Lawton involves several key steps:
- Pursue Culinary Arts Education: Consider enrolling in culinary arts programs such as the Great Plains Technology Center Culinary Arts Program or the Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program. These provide comprehensive training focusing on various cuisines including Japanese and sushi.
- Obtain Food Safety Training: Certifications such as the ServSafe Certification are crucial for compliance with health regulations and are often required by employers.
- Specialized Certification: Earning the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential validates your knowledge and skill specifically in sushi preparation, enhancing employability and potential salary.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as an apprentice or in sushi kitchens allows hands-on learning and skill improvement.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Lawton
Lawton has several notable restaurants actively seeking Sushi Chefs:
- Samurai Sushi and Hibachi
- Kobe Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar
- Nami Japanese Restaurant
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Lawton Work At
Sushi Chefs in Lawton typically find employment in a range of culinary establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Japanese Restaurants: These establishments often offer the highest salaries due to quality demands and customer expectations.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Sushi Bars: These venues provide more entry-level opportunities with moderate pay but higher volume.
- Hotels and Resorts: Some larger facilities employ Sushi Chefs in preparation for guests at upscale dining outlets.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with more upscale venues usually paying better due to clientele sophistication and complexity of dishes.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lawton for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to being a Sushi Chef, consider these roles which share culinary and hospitality similarities:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager, which involve leadership roles in the culinary field and offer varying compensation ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Lawton
Sushi Chefs in Lawton should stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations to protect their rights and manage earnings properly.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific employment regulations, the Oklahoma state government website offers valuable resources.