Sushi Chef Salary in Portland, ME
Sushi Chefs in Portland, ME, in 2026, earn approximately $18.78 per hour, which translates to about $751.20 per week, $3,255.20 per month, and $39,062.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Portland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in this specialized culinary field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Portland, ME?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Portland can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.84 | $593.60 | $2,569.87 | $31,747.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.78 | $751.20 | $3,255.20 | $39,062.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.75 | $950.00 | $4,108.33 | $49,400.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Portland Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips as part of their income, especially in settings where they interact directly with customers at sushi bars or counters. Tips can add an estimated $5-$10 per hour in additional earnings, depending on the establishment and local tipping culture.
Sushi Chef Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $18.78 per hour, translating to about $39,062.40 per year.
When compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Portland earn roughly the same hourly wage and annual income, making the city competitive within the national culinary market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying pay scales for Sushi Chefs:
- Boothbay Harbor: $25.00 per hour
- Kittery: $19.69 per hour
Sushi Chefs commuting to Boothbay Harbor might find significantly higher pay compared to Portland, while Kittery offers a slightly better wage than the city average.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Portland?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Sushi Chef in Portland:
- Experience and Skill Level: Sushi Chefs with advanced knife skills, fish preparation expertise, and years of experience command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or specialty sushi bars often pay more than casual dining or fast-casual places.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of culinary programs or certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Reputation and Clientele: Working in renowned establishments serving affluent clientele can influence salary positively.
- Shift and Work Hours: Evening and weekend shifts might include premiums or bonuses.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Portland
If you aspire to become a Sushi Chef in Portland, consider the following steps to establish your career:
- Pursue Formal Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Southern Maine Community College Culinary Arts Associate Degree, which is certified by the American Culinary Federation and includes hands-on externships.
- Complete Culinary Certifications: Obtaining credentials such as the ServSafe Certification for food safety and the American Culinary Federation Certification can boost employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start working in sushi restaurants or kitchen settings to develop knife skills and learn sushi preparation techniques.
- Develop Specialty Skills: Focus on mastering fish selection, knife handling, and sushi presentation to stand out.
- Consider Local Programs: The Portland Arts and Technology High School Culinary Concepts Program offers accredited certifications and college credit for culinary arts that can help start a career.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Portland
Several notable employers in Portland actively hire skilled Sushi Chefs, including:
- Bamboo Sushi
- Hana Group North America
- N to Tail
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Portland Work At
Sushi Chefs in Portland find work in a variety of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to upscale clientele and complex cuisine.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Might offer moderate pay but more relaxed environments.
- Sushi Bars and Specialty Seafood Restaurants: Often offer a balance of skill demand and competitive wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can provide stability and benefits, sometimes with lower hourly rates but higher overall compensation packages.
The type of establishment strongly affects earning potential, with specialty and fine dining venues generally paying more for expert Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Sushi Chefs
For those interested in related roles in the culinary and hospitality industry in Portland, consider these similar careers:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Cuisine roles, which involve leadership responsibilities in culinary environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Portland
Sushi Chefs should be informed about local and federal regulations that govern labor practices and taxation.
- Consult the official website of the State of Maine for detailed information on state labor laws including minimum wage, overtime, and workplace safety.
- For federal regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive resources on labor standards and tax obligations.