Sushi Chef Salary in Meridian, ID
Sushi Chefs in Meridian, ID, in 2025, earn approximately $17.49 per hour, which translates to about $699.60 per week, $3,031.60 per month, and $36,379.20 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Meridian is looking up with a positive growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities for skilled culinary professionals in this specialized field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Meridian, ID?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Meridian varies based on skill level and experience. Here is an overview of the typical earnings across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.83 | $593.20 | $2,565.87 | $30,790.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.49 | $699.60 | $3,031.60 | $36,379.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.18 | $887.20 | $3,834.13 | $46,134.40 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Meridian Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their salaries, especially in restaurants where they interact directly with customers. A Sushi Chef can potentially make an extra $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Sushi Chef Salary in Meridian vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $19.90 per hour, translating to about $41,392 per year.
Compared to this, Sushi Chefs in Meridian earn slightly less, at about $17.49 per hour and $36,379.20 annually.
This difference can be due to the local cost of living and demand for sushi culinary skills in the Meridian area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Meridian for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas also offer competitive salaries for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown Meridian: $18.50 per hour
- Northwest Meridian: $17.75 per hour
Those working in Downtown Meridian tend to have the highest pay among nearby regions.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Meridian?
Several factors impact the earning potential of a Sushi Chef in Meridian:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and expertise in traditional and modern sushi techniques command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end sushi bars and fine dining restaurants tend to offer better salaries compared to casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Certification and Training: Certifications like the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential and formal culinary education can enhance salary prospects.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Sushi Chefs working at popular or well-reviewed restaurants may benefit from better pay and tipping opportunities.
- Work Hours and Location: Working in busy areas or during peak hours can influence earnings, as can proximity to major urban centers.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Meridian
Becoming a successful Sushi Chef in Meridian involves a combination of education, training, and hands-on experience:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Consider programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at College of Western Idaho in nearby Nampa, ID, which provides training in culinary techniques including sushi preparation.
- Specialized Sushi Training: The Sushi Chef Training at Boise Sushi Institute offers focused instruction on both traditional and modern sushi-making skills.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Obtaining credentials like the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) from the American Culinary Federation distinguishes your skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certification such as the Food Safety Manager Certification is typically required by Idaho state regulations.
- Gain Experience: Begin as a sushi apprentice or assistant in restaurants to develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Meridian
Meridian's sushi dining scene includes notable establishments frequently hiring skilled Sushi Chefs:
- Sakana Sushi Bar
- Izumi Japanese Steak House
- Shige Japanese Cuisine
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Meridian Work At
Sushi Chefs typically work in a variety of culinary settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer sophisticated sushi menus and generally provide the highest pay and growth potential for experienced chefs.
- Sushi Bars and Casual Dining: Sushi chefs here may earn a stable income with moderate salary but possibly less than high-end venues.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Such venues often provide consistent work hours and benefits along with competitive pay.
- Fast Casual and Takeout Sushi Places: Salary in these establishments might be lower due to faster service pace and less complex menus.
The prestige and clientele of the establishment strongly affect the salary and job satisfaction for Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Meridian for Sushi Chefs
If you're interested in hospitality roles related to Sushi Chef, consider these similar careers that often share culinary skills and responsibilities:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Partie, each offering different challenges and salary potential within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Meridian
Sushi Chefs should be informed about the labor and tax regulations that affect their employment in Meridian:
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details specific to Idaho state employment rules are available on the Idaho Department of Labor website.
- Local regulations and resources can be found on the Official City of Meridian website.