Sushi Chef Salary in Salem, OR
Sushi Chefs in Salem, OR, in 2026, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Salem is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the local culinary market.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Salem, OR?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Salem varies by experience level and skills. Here's an overview of the typical earnings at different stages in their careers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.84 | $553.60 | $2,396.27 | $28,755.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.31 | $732.40 | $3,166.13 | $37,997.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.22 | $968.80 | $4,195.47 | $50,337.60 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Salem Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, although amounts can vary by establishment. They often receive an estimated extra $10 per hour in tips, supplementing their base salary and enhancing overall earnings.
Sushi Chef Salary in Salem vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $21.28 per hour, translating to roughly $44,262.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Salem earn somewhat less, at about $16.50 per hour and $34,320 annually. This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living adjustments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salem for Sushi Chefs
Salaries for Sushi Chefs can vary slightly within regions near Salem:
- Downtown Salem: $17.50 per hour
- South Salem: $16.80 per hour
Sushi Chefs working in Downtown Salem tend to earn higher wages compared to other nearby areas.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Salem?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Sushi Chef in Salem, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs command higher wages, especially those skilled in advanced sushi techniques and presentation.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or high-end restaurants often leads to better compensation compared to smaller or casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary education or specialized sushi certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Timing: Sushi Chefs working evenings, weekends, or holiday shifts might earn additional pay through shift differentials or tips.
- Local Demand and Culinary Trends: Popularity of Japanese cuisine in Salem directly affects job availability and salary ranges.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Salem
To pursue a career as a Sushi Chef in Salem, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in local culinary programs like the Culinary Arts Program at CTEC, which offers hands-on experience and industry-recognized certifications to prepare you for roles in sushi and broader restaurant kitchens.
- Further Education Opportunities: Consider advancing your skills at institutions such as the Cascade Culinary Institute, which provides comprehensive culinary arts education, including sustainable practices relevant to modern kitchens.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: Acquire an Oregon Food Handler's Card, required for all food service workers, ensuring understanding of safe food handling practices.
- Consider ServSafe Food Manager Certification: If you aim for supervisory roles, this nationally recognized certification demonstrates advanced food safety knowledge and is valued by employers.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Salem
Some of the top establishments currently hiring Sushi Chefs in Salem include:
- Momiji Sushi Restaurant
- Nagoya Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi
- Kyo Sushi
- Sushi Kyo
- Fuji Rice Time
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Salem Work At
Sushi Chefs in Salem typically find employment in a variety of culinary settings, including:
- High-End Restaurants: These establishments usually offer competitive salaries and tip opportunities due to their upscale clientele.
- Casual Dining: Faster-paced with moderate pay, but often more turnover and growth opportunities for new chefs.
- Japanese Specialty Restaurants: Focused on authentic cuisine, these may offer specialized roles that can affect salary based on skill level.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary ranges and tip potential for Sushi Chefs, with high-end places typically providing the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salem for Sushi Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to Sushi Chef, consider these similar roles that share culinary skills and industry knowledge:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Partie, and Line Cook positions, offering different levels of responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Salem
Sushi Chefs should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment and earnings in Oregon:
- Check the regulations with the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) for workplace rights and labor standards.
- For taxation policies and updates, visit the Oregon Department of Revenue.
- Federal labor laws and standards are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor, which is useful for understanding national employment regulations.