Sushi Chef Salary in Paterson, NJ
Sushi Chefs in Paterson, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $20.07 per hour, which translates to about $802.80 per week, $3,478.80 per month, and $41,745.60 per year.
The job market for Sushi Chefs in Paterson is healthy, with a 5% annual growth rate indicating increasing demand for skilled professionals in this culinary specialty.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Paterson, NJ?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Paterson varies with experience and employer type. Here's a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.16 | $606.40 | $2,628.80 | $31,545.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.07 | $802.80 | $3,478.80 | $41,745.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.56 | $1,062.40 | $4,594.13 | $55,248.80 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Paterson, NJ Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs sometimes earn tips, especially in settings where direct interaction with customers is possible. Tips can amount to an extra $5 to $15 per hour depending on the restaurant type and clientele.
Sushi Chef Salary in Paterson, NJ vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of about $19.90 per hour and roughly $41,392 per year.
Comparatively, Sushi Chefs in Paterson earn slightly above the national hourly rate at $20.07 and have a higher annual earning potential of $41,745.60.
This can be attributed to the local demand, cost of living, and the culinary culture in Paterson and surrounding areas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Paterson, NJ for Sushi Chefs
Nearby cities offer varying salary opportunities for Sushi Chefs:
- Hackensack: $22.52 per hour
- Montclair: $19.64 per hour
Hackensack presents one of the highest pay rates nearby, making it an attractive location for Sushi Chefs willing to commute.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Paterson, NJ?
Sushi Chef salaries are affected by several factors:
- Experience and Expertise: Experienced Sushi Chefs skilled in intricate fish slicing and rice preparation command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, sushi bars, and luxury hotels usually offer better wages than casual dining settings.
- Culinary Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) validate expertise and increase earning potential.
- Location and Demand: Being in a region with a rich sushi culture or high demand boosts salary prospects.
- Skills in Presentation and Menu Innovation: Chefs who bring creativity and artistry to sushi dishes can command premium wages.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Paterson, NJ
Becoming a Sushi Chef requires dedication and training. Key steps include:
- Enroll in Specialized Training: Programs at the Sushi Chef Institute in Torrance, CA, or culinary arts programs at the International Culinary Center in New York prepare you with practical and theoretical knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning a ServSafe Certification is vital for compliance with food handling standards.
- Achieve Professional Recognition: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) certification from the American Culinary Federation can validate your skills.
- Gain Experience: Working under experienced chefs in sushi restaurants helps hone essential techniques and build reputation.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Paterson, NJ
Paterson's sushi and hospitality scene includes employers looking for talented Sushi Chefs:
- Ramsey Golf and Country Club
- AG Hospitality
- Sakura Bana
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Paterson, NJ Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in diverse settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues offer the highest pay and demand artistic skill and creativity.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Sushi Bars: Wages tend to be moderate; however, these are great for gaining customer interaction experience.
- Hotels and Country Clubs: Often provide competitive compensation and benefits alongside a steady clientele.
- Catering and Event Services: Chefs can work on special events, which might offer premium pay for specialized services.
The type of establishment significantly affects earnings, with upscale locations usually paying more than casual spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Paterson, NJ for Sushi Chefs
If you’re interested in similar roles alongside Sushi Chef opportunities, consider these related hospitality positions:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Cuisine positions, which share related culinary leadership and creative responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Paterson, NJ
Sushi Chefs should be aware of key labor laws affecting their employment in Paterson:
- Details about state-specific labor laws can be found at the New Jersey official government website.
- The Federal Department of Labor website offers guidance on federal workplace regulations and protections.