Sushi Chef Salary in Lees-Summit, MO
Sushi Chefs in Lees-Summit, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Lees-Summit is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement in this culinary field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Lees-Summit, MO?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Lees-Summit varies based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings at different stages in this career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,432.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Lees-Summit Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do not earn significant tips as their work is mostly performed in kitchen settings with limited direct customer interaction. However, in some establishments, they might receive occasional small tip shares from the front-of-house staff.
Sushi Chef Salary in Lees-Summit vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn around $14.50 per hour, which equals roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Lees-Summit earn slightly less hourly, at about $13.90 per hour, and earn below the national yearly average of $30,160. This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lees-Summit for Sushi Chefs
Salaries can differ depending on the nearby area of employment:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- New Longview: $17.60 per hour
Those willing to commute to areas like New Longview or Downtown could find considerably higher pay compared to Lees-Summit itself.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Lees-Summit?
Several factors impact how much a Sushi Chef earns in Lees-Summit:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs who master traditional techniques and innovative sushi styles command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale Japanese restaurants or specialty sushi bars typically results in better compensation than at casual dining spots.
- Certifications and Education: Having formal culinary training, especially in sushi preparation, can increase earnings.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Some employers offer higher pay for overtime or weekend shifts.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Chefs known for quality and artistry may attract higher wages and bonuses.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Lees-Summit
Launching a career as a Sushi Chef in Lees-Summit involves several key steps and educational opportunities:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Metropolitan Community College provide comprehensive training, including sushi preparation.
- Specialized Sushi Training: The Sushi Chef Training at Kansas City Culinary Institute offers focused instruction in traditional and modern sushi-making skills close to Lees-Summit.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are widely recognized and often required for culinary positions.
- Professional Certification: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential demonstrates expertise in sushi preparation and can enhance job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Lees-Summit
If you're a Sushi Chef looking for work in Lees-Summit, consider applying to these popular local employers:
- Sushi Haru
- Sakura Japanese Steakhouse
- Siki Japanese Steakhouse
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Lees-Summit Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in a variety of dining venues, such as:
- Fine dining sushi restaurants: These often offer the highest salaries due to the level of skill and presentation required.
- Japanese steakhouses: They provide stable work and competitive wages, especially in popular chains.
- Casual and fast-casual eateries: These might offer lower wages but more entry-level opportunities.
- Hotels and resorts: Upscale hospitality operations often pay premium wages for skilled Sushi Chefs.
The type of establishment significantly affects pay, with specialty sushi restaurants typically compensating chefs at higher rates than casual venues.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lees-Summit for Sushi Chefs
Professionals interested in careers similar to Sushi Chef might explore the following culinary roles:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager—roles that require culinary expertise and leadership skills, often with different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Lees-Summit
Sushi Chefs in Lees-Summit should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations that affect employment conditions and wage management.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for nationwide rules and protections.
- Check the Missouri state website for labor laws and employment resources for specific state regulations.