Sushi Chef in Surprise, AZ
Sushi Chefs in Surprise, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $20.58 per hour, which translates to about $823.20 per week, $3,567.20 per month, and $42,806.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Surprise is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a promising outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary market.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Surprise, AZ?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Surprise varies depending on experience level and proficiency. Here is a breakdown of earnings across different stages of career growth.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.15 | $686.00 | $2,973.33 | $35,680.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.58 | $823.20 | $3,567.20 | $42,806.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.02 | $1,000.80 | $4,336.80 | $52,041.60 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Surprise Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs usually do earn tips as part of their compensation, often receiving an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and volume of customers they serve.
Sushi Chef Salary in Surprise vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an hourly average of about $20.22, which equals approximately $42,057.60 per year.
In comparison, Sushi Chefs in Surprise earn slightly more at $20.58 per hour and $42,806.40 annually, indicating competitive compensation locally.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Surprise for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer different pay scales for Sushi Chefs:
- Prasada Parkway: $21.50 per hour
- Bell Road Corridor: $22.00 per hour
For Sushi Chefs willing to commute, these areas may provide higher earning potential compared to Surprise itself.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Surprise?
Several factors affect the earnings of a Sushi Chef in Surprise:
- Experience and Mastery: More experienced chefs with refined skills command higher wages.
- Type of Restaurant: Working in upscale or specialty Japanese restaurants often yields higher salaries than fast casual venues.
- Certifications and Training: Recognized certifications and culinary education can boost earning potential.
- Work Schedule and Hours: Chefs working peak dinner shifts or weekends might receive shift differentials or additional tips.
- Reputation and Customer Base: A Sushi Chef popular among patrons can leverage that for better pay and tips.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Surprise
To start a career as a Sushi Chef in Surprise, consider the following steps:
- Pursue Formal Culinary Education: Programs at the Arizona Culinary Institute in Scottsdale provide a solid foundation in sushi making and culinary arts.
- Complete Community College Programs: The Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program offers an Associate degree focusing on broad culinary skills beneficial for sushi chefs.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often mandatory, highlighting knowledge of safe food preparation.
- Earn Specialty Credentials: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) offered by the American Culinary Federation validates expertise and professionalism in sushi preparation.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Surprise
Local restaurants and dining establishments actively looking for skilled Sushi Chefs include:
- Blue Sushi Sake Grill
- Trapper's Sushi
- Ah-So Sushi & Steak
- Benihana
- OBON The Grove
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Surprise Work At
Sushi Chefs find employment in various types of food service establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically highest salaries due to skill requirements and prestige.
- Casual Dining: Stable pay with opportunities for tips depending on restaurant traffic.
- Fast Casual and Sushi Bars: Often with competitive hourly wages and tips but less formal settings.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: May offer salaried positions with additional benefits.
The type of establishment impacts both the base salary and tip potential for Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Surprise for Sushi Chefs
If you're interested in careers similar to Sushi Chef, you might consider related roles such as:
These roles include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, which involve similar culinary and management skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Surprise
Sushi Chefs should be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations applicable to workers in Arizona. Reliable resources include:
- Official state labor laws and employment regulations can be accessed through the Arizona government website.
- For federal labor standards and rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor site.