Sushi Chef Salary in Oklahoma City, OK
Sushi Chefs in Oklahoma City, OK, in 2026, earn approximately $15.17 per hour, which translates to about $606.80 per week, $2,629.47 per month, and $31,553.60 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Oklahoma City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive market trend and increasing opportunities in the culinary and hospitality sectors.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Oklahoma City, OK?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Oklahoma City varies depending on experience and specific employer, but the following table shows the general pay range across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.79 | $511.60 | $2,214.93 | $26,579.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.17 | $606.80 | $2,629.47 | $31,553.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.98 | $719.20 | $3,117.87 | $37,398.40 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Oklahoma City Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Oklahoma City, they can make about an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume, significantly increasing their overall earnings.
Sushi Chef Salary in Oklahoma City vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $19.71 per hour, translating to about $40,996.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Oklahoma City earn somewhat less, at around $15.17 per hour and $31,553.60 annually. This difference may reflect local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oklahoma City for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly varied salaries for Sushi Chefs, including:
- Midtown: $16.50 per hour
- Automobile Alley: $17.00 per hour
Sushi Chefs working in these neighborhoods may find slightly higher earning opportunities due to the local dining scenes and customer demographics.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Oklahoma City?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Sushi Chef in Oklahoma City:
- Experience and Skill Level: Higher skill mastery in sushi preparation and years of experience typically lead to increased pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and luxury hotels tend to offer better salaries than casual dining or smaller sushi bars.
- Certification and Training: Formal culinary certifications and specialized sushi classes can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Late-night or holiday shifts might offer additional compensation.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Chefs known for exceptional skills and creativity may command higher wages due to their reputation.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Oklahoma City
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Oklahoma City involves several key steps:
- Gain Hands-On Training: Platforms like Cozymeal offer sushi making classes led by experienced chefs, useful for learning essential techniques and gaining practice.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Pursuing credentials such as the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification, including Certified Sous Chef (CSC) or Certified Executive Chef (CEC), can enhance qualifications.
- Obtain Food Safety Knowledge: Knowledge of food safety and hygiene is critical and often required by employers.
- Work in Relevant Establishments: Starting as an apprentice or assistant in Japanese or sushi-specific restaurants will build practical expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Oklahoma City
Some notable establishments hiring Sushi Chefs in Oklahoma City include:
- Yokozuna OKC
- Citizen House Oklahoma City
- Highball Sushi + Kitchen
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Oklahoma City Work At
Sushi Chefs in Oklahoma City typically work in diverse settings such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often with moderate wages but frequent shifts available.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments usually offer higher salaries, better tips, and opportunities to develop advanced skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: Where pay scales can be competitive, and benefits are more commonly provided.
- Sushi Bars and Specialty Food Outlets: Offering salary variations based on clientele and establishment size.
The type of establishment directly impacts the earning potential and career growth opportunities for Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oklahoma City for Sushi Chefs
If you're exploring related roles within the culinary world, consider these similar careers:
These include Banquet Chef, Commis Chef, and Sous Chef roles, which share culinary skill requirements and offer varied salary brackets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Oklahoma City
Sushi Chefs should stay informed about labor regulations and tax responsibilities to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Explore the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on federal labor laws and employment rights.
- The State of Oklahoma official website provides detailed local labor laws, including wage and hour rules relevant to Sushi Chefs.