Sushi Chef Salary in Lubbock, TX
Sushi Chefs in Lubbock, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.35 per hour, which translates to about $574.00 per week, $2,487.33 per month, and $29,848.00 per year.
The job market for Sushi Chefs in Lubbock is showing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand in the region for skilled culinary professionals specializing in sushi preparation.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Lubbock, TX?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Lubbock varies by experience level and skill. Below is an overview of typical earnings from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.05 | $402.00 | $1,742.00 | $20,904.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.35 | $574.00 | $2,487.33 | $29,848.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Lubbock Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs commonly earn tips, depending on the establishment. They can typically make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips during busy shifts, which can significantly boost their overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Lubbock vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of about $16.35 per hour or roughly $34,008 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Lubbock earn slightly less on an hourly basis, at $14.35, translating to a yearly salary of $29,848. This difference may relate to local cost of living and restaurant market size.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lubbock for Sushi Chefs
Salaries for Sushi Chefs vary across nearby areas:
- Downtown Lubbock: $15.50 per hour
- South Lubbock: $17.60 per hour
Sushi Chefs working in South Lubbock tend to have the highest pay, possibly due to demand in that neighborhood's dining scene.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Lubbock?
Several factors impact how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Lubbock:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and creativity usually command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end or specialty sushi restaurants tend to pay better than casual dining or fast-casual sushi spots.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary education or sushi-specific certifications can lead to better pay.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evening and weekend shifts may include premium pay or higher tipping opportunities.
- Local Demand: Demand in Lubbock’s growing food scene influences salaries and job availability.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Lubbock
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Lubbock involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Sushi-Making Courses: Joining programs like Cozymeal Cooking Classes, which offer hands-on sushi courses led by professional chefs, is a great way to gain foundational skills.
- Obtain a Food Handler’s Permit: Required by Texas law for all food service workers, this permit certifies knowledge of safe food handling practices crucial for Sushi Chefs.
- Gain Practical Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level roles in sushi restaurants help build expertise.
- Stay Updated on Culinary Trends: Keeping up with new sushi techniques and ingredient trends enhances employability and salary prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Lubbock
Popular employers currently seeking skilled Sushi Chefs include:
- HEB
- United Supermarkets
- Hayashi Midtown Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Lubbock Work At
Sushi Chefs in Lubbock typically find employment in a variety of settings:
- Casual Restaurants: These provide entry-level opportunities with moderate pay and smaller menus.
- Fast Casual Dining: Offers faster-paced work, often with consistent schedules and slightly higher pay.
- Specialty Sushi Bars and High-End Restaurants: Command higher salaries, require advanced skills, and offer opportunities for creative expression.
- Supermarkets with Sushi Counters: Positions here might pay less but provide steady hours and benefits.
The type of establishment strongly affects hourly wages and tipping potential for Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lubbock for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in careers similar to that of a Sushi Chef, consider these related roles which also involve culinary expertise:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Chef de Cuisine — roles that often involve leadership in kitchens and advanced culinary skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Lubbock
Sushi Chefs in Texas should be aware of important labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- State labor laws, including wage standards and working conditions, can be found on the Texas government website.
- For federal labor regulations and standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s official website.