Sushi Chef Salary in Seattle, WA
Sushi Chefs in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.50 per hour, which translates to about $820.00 per week, $3,553.33 per month, and $42,640.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Seattle is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating an expanding market for sushi and Japanese cuisine within the city and its surroundings.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Seattle varies based on experience and the employer, but the following table outlines typical earnings at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.50 | $820.00 | $3,521.67 | $42,640.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Seattle Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips as part of their overall income. Depending on the establishment, Sushi Chefs can make an extra $10 to $20 per day in tips alone, which supplements their base salary.
Sushi Chef Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, amounting to about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Sushi Chefs in Seattle enjoy higher earnings at about $20.50 per hour and $42,640 annually. This premium reflects local demand and the city's cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Sushi Chefs
Nearby neighborhoods in Seattle show varied pay rates for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown: $22.00 per hour
- Capitol Hill: $21.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Seattle tends to offer higher wages than Capitol Hill, driven by the concentration of upscale dining venues.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Seattle?
Several key factors influence how much a Sushi Chef earns in Seattle:
- Experience and Expertise: Increased years in sushi preparation and mastery of intricate knife skills can command higher pay.
- Skills and Specialization: Knowledge of various fish types, presentation artistry, and menu development impact compensation.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end restaurants or specialty sushi bars usually offers better salaries than fast casual spots.
- Certification and Training: Holding professional certifications or attending culinary training enhances earning potential.
- Shift and Work Hours: Working prime dining hours or overtime may lead to additional earnings or bonuses.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Seattle
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Seattle involves a mixture of formal training and hands-on experience:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Programs like the Seattle Culinary Academy provide comprehensive culinary arts education with a focus on sushi preparation.
- Apprenticeships: Participating in the Sushi Kappo Tamura Apprenticeship offers valuable hands-on guidance under experienced Sushi Chefs.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Ensuring you have the Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory for all food handlers.
- Professional Certification: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential demonstrates expertise and can improve employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Seattle
Seattle's thriving sushi scene offers many job opportunities. Notable employers looking for skilled Sushi Chefs include:
- Shiro's Sushi
- Sushi Kashiba
- Maneki Restaurant
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Seattle Work At
Sushi Chefs typically work across various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer higher salaries reflecting the skill level required and the premium clientele.
- Specialty Sushi Bars: Sushi-focused venues often pay competitively and rely heavily on chef expertise for their reputation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: While these might offer fewer earnings, they provide extensive experience opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations might provide steady salaries and benefits but can vary in pay scale.
The type of establishment influences the wage scale and potential for additional income like tips or bonuses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Sushi Chefs
If you are exploring related career paths in hospitality connected to the role of Sushi Chef, consider the following options:
These include Chef de Partie, Line Cook, and Head Chef roles, each involving culinary skills relevant to working with sushi and broader kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Seattle
Understanding local labor laws and tax requirements is important for Sushi Chefs working in Seattle.
- Washington State labor regulations and workplace rights can be explored on the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.
- Federal labor laws and employment standards are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.