Sushi Chef Salary in Newport News, VA
Sushi Chefs in Newport News, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Newport News is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities for skilled professionals in this culinary niche.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Newport News, VA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Newport News varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Newport News Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips. On average, they can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall compensation depending on the establishment and clientele.
Sushi Chef Salary in Newport News vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $18.63 per hour, translating to about $38,750.40 per year.
Compared to this, Sushi Chefs in Newport News earn slightly less at $17.00 per hour and $35,360.00 annually, which could be influenced by local market factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Newport News for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offering competitive salaries for Sushi Chefs include:
- Port Warwick: $18.00 per hour
- Oyster Point: $17.50 per hour
These nearby communities can provide sushi chefs with higher pay opportunities while remaining close to Newport News.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Newport News?
Several factors influence the salary of a Sushi Chef in Newport News:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and knowledge of Japanese cuisine tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and luxury sushi bars often pay higher wages than casual eateries or fast casual spots.
- Certifications and Training: Certifications such as a Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) or ServSafe Food Handler Certification can boost salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evening or weekend shifts might provide additional income through shift differentials or tips.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Newport News
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Newport News can be achieved through several steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Local Community College Culinary Programs offer training in Japanese cooking techniques essential for sushi preparation.
- Attend Sushi-Making Classes: Cozymeal Cooking Classes provide hands-on workshops led by experienced chefs, ideal for learning sushi skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Completing the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of safe food practices.
- Pursue Professional Certification: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates expertise and improves job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Newport News
Some of the top employers actively seeking skilled Sushi Chefs in Newport News include:
- Japan Samurai
- Sushi Yoma Japanese Restaurant
- Hayashi Sushi & Grill
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Newport News Work At
Sushi Chefs find employment in a range of establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These typically offer higher salaries and require advanced skills in presentation and ingredient sourcing.
- Casual and Fast Casual Spots: While pay may be lower here, these settings can offer steady work and opportunities for growth.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Often provide competitive pay and benefits due to higher guest volumes and premium service expectations.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary with upscale venues generally paying more due to complexity and customer expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Newport News for Sushi Chefs
If you're considering careers related to being a Sushi Chef, here are some similar roles worth exploring:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Line Cook, which offer alternative career paths within the culinary and hospitality industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Newport News
Sushi Chefs should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax responsibilities to protect their rights and comply with regulations.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor federal website.
- State-specific resources are available at the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry.
- For local government information and services, refer to the City of Newport News official website.