Sushi Chef Salary in Charleston, SC
Sushi Chefs in Charleston, SC, in 2025, earn approximately $19.20 per hour, which translates to about $768.00 per week, $3,328.00 per month, and $39,936.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Charleston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in this specialized culinary field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Charleston, SC?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Charleston can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.06 | $562.40 | $2,436.80 | $29,260.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.20 | $768.00 | $3,328.00 | $39,936.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.22 | $1,048.80 | $4,533.33 | $54,537.60 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Charleston Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often work in front of customers and may earn tips, depending on the establishment. In Charleston, Sushi Chefs can earn approximately $10 to $20 per day in tips, supplementing their base salary.
Sushi Chef Salary in Charleston vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn around $19.20 per hour, or about $39,936 annually.
In Charleston, Sushi Chefs earn approximately the same as the national average, with an hourly rate of $19.20 and yearly earnings near $39,936, reflecting consistency between local and nationwide pay scales.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying salary levels for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown Charleston: $22.76 per hour
- Mount Pleasant: $17.92 per hour
Sushi Chefs in Downtown Charleston generally enjoy higher wages compared to other nearby locations like Mount Pleasant.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Charleston?
Several factors can influence how much a Sushi Chef earns in Charleston:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with advanced knife skills and knowledge of sushi varieties tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and luxury hotels often pay Sushi Chefs more than casual dining or fast-casual outlets.
- Reputation and Certifications: Certifications from recognized culinary institutions can enhance earning potential.
- Customer Interaction and Tips: Sushi Chefs who engage directly with customers may receive additional income through tips.
- Local Demand and Competition: Charleston's growing culinary scene may drive salaries up due to increased demand for skilled Sushi Chefs.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Charleston
Becoming a successful Sushi Chef in Charleston involves building key skills and credentials:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in comprehensive programs like those offered by the Culinary Institute of Charleston, which include specialties in international cuisines and sushi preparation.
- Take Culinary Courses: Institutions such as Trident Technical College offer courses covering kitchen management and food preparation essential to Sushi Chef roles.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquire food safety credentials like ServSafe Certification and industry-recognized qualifications from the American Culinary Federation (ACF).
- Gain Practical Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen roles enable developing hands-on sushi making expertise.
- Stay Updated: Keep learning new techniques and trends in sushi cuisine to remain competitive in the Charleston job market.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Charleston
Several well-known establishments in Charleston regularly seek skilled Sushi Chefs:
- Shiki
- 167 Sushi Bar
- Mesu
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Charleston Work At
Sushi Chefs in Charleston are typically employed in a variety of foodservice environments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often provide the highest salaries due to upscale clientele and complex menu offerings.
- Casual Dining: These establishments offer moderate salaries but frequent opportunities for tips.
- Fast Casual and Sushi Bars: Typically lower base pay but may offer steady work and room for skill development.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually pay competitive wages with potential benefits.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly affect the earning potential and work environment for Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Sushi Chefs
Those interested in roles related to Sushi Chef may consider similar culinary positions:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Maitre D roles, which require related culinary and hospitality skills and offer varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Charleston
Sushi Chefs should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor law information.
- For South Carolina-specific labor laws and regulations, check the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation website.