Sushi Chef Salary in Port-St-Lucie, FL
Sushi Chefs in Port-St-Lucie, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.90 per hour, which translates to about $636.00 per week, $2,756.00 per month, and $33,072.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Port-St-Lucie is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasingly popular culinary landscape and a higher demand for skilled professionals in sushi preparation and service.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Port-St-Lucie, FL?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Port-St-Lucie varies based on experience level, skills, and the establishment they work for. Below is a breakdown by experience tier.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.45 | $538.00 | $2,327.33 | $27,976.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.90 | $636.00 | $2,756.00 | $33,072.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.50 | $700.00 | $3,033.33 | $36,400.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Port-St-Lucie Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their salary, especially in casual and upscale dining environments where sushi bars are directly accessible to customers. Tips can add an estimated $5 to $15 per hour during busy shifts, significantly boosting overall earnings.
Sushi Chef Salary in Port-St-Lucie vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $19.08 per hour, translating to about $39,686.40 per year. Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Port-St-Lucie earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $15.90 and annual pay of $33,072.
This difference may reflect local living cost factors, restaurant types, and regional demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Port-St-Lucie for Sushi Chefs
Sushi Chefs in neighborhoods close to Port-St-Lucie can find improved wages:
- Tradition: $16.50 per hour
- St. Lucie West: $17.00 per hour
Commuting to these areas might offer wage advantages for Sushi Chefs looking for higher pay compared to the core city market.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Port-St-Lucie?
Several factors impact how much a Sushi Chef earns in Port-St-Lucie:
- Experience and Skill Level: Highly skilled Sushi Chefs with expertise in traditional and contemporary sushi techniques or specialization in premium ingredients earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, sushi bars, or resorts tend to pay more compared to casual eateries or fast-casual spots.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety certifications and culinary training can increase employability and earning potential.
- Shift and Work Schedule: Night shifts, weekends, and holidays often offer premium pay, influencing weekly earnings.
- Location: Areas within or near Port-St-Lucie with higher living costs or tourist traffic generally offer better wages.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Port-St-Lucie
Launching a career as a Sushi Chef in Port-St-Lucie includes several key steps:
- Join Culinary Programs: Enrollment in culinary arts programs like the Jaguar Culinary Crew at Port St. Lucie High School offers foundational training and certifications such as SERVSAFE and ProStart Certificate of Achievement focused on food safety, cooking techniques, and hospitality.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Achieving credentials like SERVSAFE Certified Food Protection Manager is critical for compliance and career growth.
- Gain Apprenticeship or Internship Experience: Work under experienced Sushi Chefs to develop practical skills and build a portfolio.
- Master Sushi Techniques: Practice knife skills, ingredient selection, and presentation methods to stand out in the field.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Port-St-Lucie
Several well-known establishments actively seek skilled Sushi Chefs in Port-St-Lucie:
- Benihana
- Sushi Yama
- Fuji Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Port-St-Lucie Work At
Sushi Chefs find opportunities in diverse environments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically offer steady hours with moderate pay but limited tips.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher wages and tips reflect skill demand and customer expectations.
- Sushi Bars and Specialty Culinary Spots: Direct interaction with patrons can increase tips and commissions.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer comprehensive benefits and consistent work but varying pay scales.
The establishment type significantly influences pay, work atmosphere, and potential advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Port-St-Lucie for Sushi Chefs
Professionals interested in similar career paths might explore roles related to Sushi Chef, including:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Banquet Chef positions, all requiring culinary expertise and offering varied responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Port-St-Lucie
Sushi Chefs in Port-St-Lucie should be informed about federal and state labor regulations and tax policies to understand their rights and obligations.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for information on national labor laws, wage standards, and employment rights.
- The official State of Florida website provides guidance on state-specific labor laws, taxes, and workplace regulations.