Sushi Chef Salary in Rio Rancho, NM
Sushi Chefs in Rio Rancho, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $18.36 per hour, which translates to about $734.40 per week, $3,182.40 per month, and $38,188.80 per year.
The job demand for Sushi Chefs in Rio Rancho is growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive and increasing need for skilled culinary professionals specializing in sushi preparation in the area.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Rio Rancho, NM?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Rio Rancho varies with experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings according to different stages in a Sushi Chef’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.86 | $634.40 | $2,742.13 | $32,909.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.30 | $772.00 | $3,327.33 | $39,924.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.50 | $940.00 | $4,066.67 | $48,880.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Rio Rancho Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips, especially in establishments where they interact directly with customers. In Rio Rancho, they can expect to earn approximately $10 per hour in tips, adding a significant boost to their overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Rio Rancho, NM vs. National Average
Nationally, the average salary for Sushi Chefs is about $19.90 per hour and $41,392 annually. Comparing this to Rio Rancho, where Sushi Chefs earn $18.36 per hour and $38,188.80 annually, the pay is slightly below the national average.
This difference might reflect the local cost of living and demand factors but still offers competitive compensation within the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rio Rancho for Sushi Chefs
Nearby cities offer varying wages for Sushi Chefs:
- Santa Fe: $20.30 per hour
- Albuquerque: $18.36 per hour
Sushi Chefs willing to commute to Santa Fe could benefit from higher pay rates, whereas Albuquerque offers similar compensation to Rio Rancho.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Rio Rancho?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Rio Rancho is influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and knowledge of Japanese cuisine tend to earn higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized certifications, such as Certified Sushi Chef (CSC), can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues generally pay more than casual or fast-casual sushi bars.
- Location within the City: Salaries may vary depending on the restaurant’s location and clientele.
- Customer Interaction and Tips: Sushi Chefs who work at chef’s counters or sushi bars where they serve customers directly can earn substantial tips.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Rio Rancho
Embarking on a career as a Sushi Chef in Rio Rancho involves several key steps:
- Earn Culinary Training: Programs such as the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training, including international cuisines and sushi preparation.
- Participate in Specialized Workshops: The University of New Mexico Continuing Education offers culinary classes focusing on sushi making techniques, perfect for developing advanced skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required for culinary roles, emphasizing important food safety practices.
- Earn Professional Certification: Achieving a Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential can showcase proficiency and dedication to the craft.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in sushi restaurants to refine knife skills, rice preparation, and fish selection is critical.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Rio Rancho
The following employers are key players in Rio Rancho looking to hire skilled Sushi Chefs:
- Benihana
- Sushi King
- Azuma Sushi & Teppan
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Rio Rancho Work At
Sushi Chefs in Rio Rancho typically find employment in a variety of food establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments usually offer the highest salaries, given their focus on quality and presentation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Sushi Bars: These places often provide moderate pay but can offer consistent hours and tips.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Employed in luxury settings where diverse culinary skills are valued and salary may be higher.
- Private Catering or Specialty Food Services: Opportunities exist for Sushi Chefs to work in bespoke catering, sometimes with flexible hours and competitive pay.
The type of establishment directly impacts the level of salary and opportunity for tips, with fine dining venues typically offering greater financial rewards.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rio Rancho for Sushi Chefs
Those interested in exploring careers related to Sushi Chefs may consider several roles that share similar culinary skills and work environments.
Positions such as Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager share related skills and provide diverse career pathways in the culinary and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Rio Rancho
Sushi Chefs in Rio Rancho should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure fair work practices and proper financial management.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor information is available at the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
- The official Rio Rancho website provides local employment resources and relevant labor law updates.