Sushi Chef Salary in Thousand Oaks, CA
Sushi Chefs in Thousand Oaks, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $19.00 per hour, which translates to about $760.00 per week, $3,293.33 per month, and $39,520.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Thousand Oaks is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market with increasing opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Thousand Oaks, CA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Thousand Oaks varies by experience and skill level. Below is an overview of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay at different stages of a Sushi Chef’s career.
| 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) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Thousand Oaks Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips in many restaurants. They can often make an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer generosity, which can significantly supplement their overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Thousand Oaks vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of approximately $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Sushi Chefs in Thousand Oaks earn higher wages at about $19.00 per hour and $39,520 annually, reflecting local market demand and cost of living adjustments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thousand Oaks for Sushi Chefs
If you are considering nearby areas, these locations offer competitive salaries for Sushi Chefs:
- Westlake Village: $19.00 per hour
- Agoura Hills: $20.00 per hour
Agoura Hills offers slightly higher hourly pay, making it a lucrative nearby option for Sushi Chefs.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Thousand Oaks?
Several key factors can influence how much a Sushi Chef earns in Thousand Oaks:
- Experience and Skill Level: Advanced knife skills, mastery of sushi techniques, and years of experience increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end sushi restaurants and luxury hotels tend to pay higher salaries compared to casual dining places.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Sushi Chefs known for unique presentation or specialty rolls may command higher pay.
- Certifications and Education: Completion of relevant culinary courses and food safety certifications can enhance job prospects and salary.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may come with shift differentials or overtime pay.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Thousand Oaks
To start a career as a Sushi Chef in Thousand Oaks, consider these steps:
- Take Sushi Making Classes: Programs such as Cozymeal Sushi Making Classes offer hands-on experience preparing sushi with professional chefs.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of proper food safety practices and is often required by employers in California.
- Gain Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen positions like prep cook or line cook can lead to advancement.
- Network in the Culinary Community: Exposure to local sushi chefs and industry professionals can help find job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Thousand Oaks
Popular sushi restaurants and employers in Thousand Oaks looking for skilled Sushi Chefs include:
- Seabutter Sushi
- Minato Sushi
- Sushi Raku
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Thousand Oaks Work At
Sushi Chefs in Thousand Oaks typically find work in a variety of food service settings such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Sushi Restaurants: These establishments may offer entry-level positions with modest salaries but opportunities for tips.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher-end locations usually pay better, reflecting the skill and presentation required.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality businesses often provide stable employment with benefits and higher pay.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with fine dining and luxury venues offering the most lucrative earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thousand Oaks for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in similar culinary roles, consider career options such as:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager, which share related culinary and leadership skills in restaurant environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Thousand Oaks
Understanding applicable labor laws and tax obligations is important for Sushi Chefs working in Thousand Oaks.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for comprehensive information on state labor laws including wages, working hours, and employee rights.
- For federal taxation guidelines, see the Internal Revenue Service website.