Sushi Chef Salary in Long Beach, CA
Sushi Chefs in Long Beach, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.65 per hour, which translates to about $746.00 per week, $3,232.67 per month, and $38,792.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Long Beach is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing opportunity for skilled culinary professionals specializing in sushi in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Long Beach, CA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Long Beach varies based on experience and skill, but here is an overview of typical earnings across different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.70 | $588.00 | $2,540.00 | $30,480.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.65 | $746.00 | $3,229.33 | $38,792.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.85 | $874.00 | $3,780.67 | $45,448.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Long Beach Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their salary, especially in higher-end or specialty sushi restaurants, where skilled craftsmanship is highly valued. These tips can amount to approximately $10 per hour extra, significantly boosting overall earnings depending on the establishment and clientele.
Sushi Chef Salary in Long Beach vs. National Average
On a national level, Sushi Chefs earn around $14.50 per hour, which equates to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Sushi Chefs in Long Beach earn about $18.65 per hour and $38,792 annually, reflecting a higher salary which may be attributed to the local demand, cost of living, and culinary culture of the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Long Beach for Sushi Chefs
When exploring nearby locations, salary rates for Sushi Chefs vary slightly:
- Downtown: $20.00 per hour
- Belmont Shore: $19.50 per hour
These areas present opportunities for Sushi Chefs to earn somewhat more than in other parts of Long Beach, particularly in Downtown where upscale venues are common.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Long Beach?
Several factors impact the salary of a Sushi Chef in Long Beach:
- Experience and Skill Level: Expertise in sushi preparation and years of experience can greatly increase pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end or specialty sushi restaurants tends to yield a higher salary compared to casual or fast-casual sushi bars.
- Certifications: Having certifications like the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) can boost credibility and salary potential.
- Customer Interaction and Tip Potential: Sushi Chefs in establishments that involve more guest interaction may earn more tips.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Long Beach
To pursue a career as a Sushi Chef in Long Beach, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Long Beach City College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive culinary training with a focus on sushi preparation, and the Los Angeles Trade-Technical College Culinary Arts Program provides extensive education including Japanese sushi techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required for culinary roles to ensure knowledge of food safety.
- Gain Professional Credentials: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential helps demonstrate proficiency and professionalism in sushi preparation.
- Get Practical Experience: Working apprenticeships or internships in sushi restaurants help build hands-on skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Long Beach
Several notable employers in Long Beach actively hire Sushi Chefs, including:
- Sushi Jiro
- San Shi Go
- Otafuku Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Long Beach Work At
Sushi Chefs often find employment in a variety of food-service venues such as:
- Casual Sushi Bars and Restaurants: Typically provide steady work but may offer moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Focus on quick service and may offer lower pay but more consistent hours.
- High-End and Specialty Sushi Restaurants: These establishments usually pay higher salaries and offer greater tip potential due to the premium nature of the dining experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Employ Sushi Chefs for on-site dining that can command higher wages and better benefits.
The type of establishment significantly influences earnings, with upscale and specialized sushi dining venues generally providing the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Long Beach for Sushi Chefs
If you are considering alternative or related career paths within the culinary and hospitality fields, here are some similar roles:
These include Commis Chef, Chef, and Chef de Cuisine, which require similar culinary skills and offer alternative career trajectories within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Long Beach
Sushi Chefs in Long Beach should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure a compliant and fair working environment.
- California state labor laws and workplace regulations can be reviewed on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- Federal labor laws and employment standards are available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.