Sushi Chef Salary in New-Bedford, MA
Sushi Chefs in New-Bedford, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.38 per hour, which translates to about $775.20 per week, $3,359.20 per month, and $40,310.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in New-Bedford is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities in this specialized culinary field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in New-Bedford, MA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in New-Bedford varies based on experience and skills. Below is an overview of earnings across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.39 | $575.60 | $2,488.93 | $29,955.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.38 | $775.20 | $3,359.20 | $40,310.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.11 | $1,044.40 | $4,523.73 | $54,308.80 |
Do Sushi Chefs in New-Bedford Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips as a part of their compensation, especially when working in restaurants or sushi bars where they interact with customers. They can make approximately $10 to $20 per day in tips, depending on the establishment and clientele.
Sushi Chef Salary in New-Bedford vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn about $19.38 per hour and $40,310.40 annually, which aligns closely with the average salary in New-Bedford.
This shows that the salary for Sushi Chefs in New-Bedford is on par with the national average, indicating competitive wages in the local market compared to other regions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New-Bedford for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying salary rates for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown: $21.52 per hour
- Westfield: $20.93 per hour
Sushi Chefs working in Downtown New-Bedford can expect to earn higher wages compared to other neighboring regions, which reflects the demand and the cost of living in those locations.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in New-Bedford?
Several key factors affect how much a Sushi Chef can earn in New-Bedford:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and knowledge of diverse sushi styles tend to earn higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills in specialty sushi preparations, such as Nigiri, Sashimi, and Rolls, and certifications in food safety boost earnings potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, specialty sushi bars, and luxury hotels often pay more than casual dining spots or fast-casual eateries.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Chefs working evenings, weekends, or holidays may receive shift differentials or bonuses.
- Local Market Demand: The growing popularity of sushi influences job availability and salary rates locally.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in New-Bedford
To start a career as a Sushi Chef in New-Bedford, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Arts Education: Enroll in programs such as the Bristol Community College Culinary Arts Program, which provides hands-on training including sushi preparation.
- Attend Specialty Courses: Nearby options like the Johnson & Wales University Culinary Arts Program offer specialized courses in Asian cuisine and sushi making.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Obtain certificates like the ServSafe Certification, crucial for safe food handling in professional kitchens.
- Gain Professional Certification: Consider the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification to validate culinary skills and improve job prospects.
- Build Practical Experience: Work in internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles to develop sushi-making expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in New-Bedford
Some of the leading establishments hiring Sushi Chefs in the area include:
- The Black Whale
- Cisco New Bedford
- Seaport Inn Grill
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in New-Bedford Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual Dining and Sushi Bars: These offer opportunities to hone skills with moderate salary levels.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often busier, these might have faster-paced work with varying pay scales.
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: Higher-end establishments tend to offer better pay and benefits, reflecting the premium placed on culinary skill and presentation.
- Catering Companies and Private Events: These can provide flexible work opportunities, sometimes with higher hourly rates.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the compensation level, with upscale venues providing some of the highest wage opportunities for Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New-Bedford for Sushi Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to being a Sushi Chef, the following roles may interest you:
These include Chef, Head Chef, and Commis Chef positions, which have overlapping skills and may offer different salary ranges within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in New-Bedford
Sushi Chefs should familiarize themselves with state and federal labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- On the Massachusetts government website you can find detailed information on labor regulations including minimum wage, overtime pay, and workplace safety.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers comprehensive resources on federal laws and worker protections.