Sushi Chef Salary in Lincoln, NE
Sushi Chefs in Lincoln, NE, in 2026, earn approximately $15 per hour, which translates to about $600 per week, $2,600 per month, and $31,200 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Lincoln is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for those pursuing careers in this specialized culinary field in the area.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Lincoln, NE?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Lincoln can vary depending on experience and employer, but the following figures provide an overview across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.46 | $498.40 | $2,156.80 | $25,900.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.96 | $718.40 | $3,104.53 | $37,356.80 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Lincoln Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often do earn tips depending on the establishment. They can make an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, especially in upscale sushi bars and restaurants where customer interaction is more frequent.
Sushi Chef Salary in Lincoln vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $19.42 per hour, which translates to about $40,393.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Lincoln, NE, earn somewhat less at around $15 per hour and $31,200 annually. This difference reflects local cost of living and market demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lincoln for Sushi Chefs
Looking at areas near Lincoln, salaries for Sushi Chefs can vary slightly:
- Downtown Lincoln: $16 per hour
- Haymarket District: $15.50 per hour
Sushi Chefs in Downtown Lincoln tend to earn a bit more, possibly due to the concentration of restaurants and higher-end dining experiences.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Lincoln?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Lincoln is influenced by multiple important factors, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled and experienced Sushi Chefs command higher salaries, especially those who master advanced techniques or have specialty skills.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and sushi bars usually pay better than casual or fast-casual spots.
- Location within the City: Working in high-traffic or trendy neighborhoods like Downtown Lincoln can boost pay.
- Certifications and Training: Holding culinary certifications or completing formal culinary education can increase earnings.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes include extra pay.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Lincoln
To pursue a career as a Sushi Chef in Lincoln, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Formal Culinary Training: Programs such as the Southeast Community College Culinary/Hospitality Program, accredited by the American Culinary Federation, offer practical experience and foundational knowledge.
- Consider Additional Culinary Education Nearby: The Metropolitan Community College Institute for the Culinary Arts in Omaha provides relevant degree programs including culinary management and cooking skills applicable to Sushi Chefs.
- Acquire Mandatory Food Handling Permits: Getting a Lincoln-Lancaster County Food Handlers Permit is a necessary step before working in food service in Lincoln.
- Pursue National Certifications: The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification can enhance credibility and open doors to higher-paying roles.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Lincoln
Some of the top employers looking for Sushi Chefs in Lincoln include:
- Hy-Vee, Inc.
- Yoshitomo
- Blue Sushi Sake Grill
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Lincoln Work At
Sushi Chefs in Lincoln typically work in a diverse range of dining establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer the highest pay due to the skill and presentation standards.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Sushi Bars: Pay is generally moderate, suitable for entry to mid-level chefs.
- Hotels and Event Catering: Jobs here may offer competitive salaries and benefits.
- Supermarkets and Specialty Food Markets: May hire Sushi Chefs for food prep and fresh sushi counters, usually with moderate wages.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with more prestigious or busy venues typically offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lincoln for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in similar career paths related to Sushi Chefs, consider these roles:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Partie, all of which involve culinary expertise and offer varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Lincoln
Sushi Chefs should be aware of local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper management of work conditions.
- Information about state labor standards can be found on the Nebraska Department of Labor website.
- Local regulations and permits are detailed on the City of Lincoln official website.