Sushi Chef Salary in Trenton, NJ
Sushi Chefs in Trenton, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which amounts to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Trenton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signalling a healthy increase in opportunities and a rising appreciation for Japanese cuisine in the local dining scene.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Trenton, NJ?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Trenton varies by their experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different stages of a Sushi Chef's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.16 | $606.40 | $2,623.47 | $31,516.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.07 | $802.80 | $3,473.80 | $41,745.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.56 | $1,062.40 | $4,589.87 | $55,244.80 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Trenton Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips, especially when working in full-service restaurants or upscale dining establishments. Tips can add an extra $10 to $15 per hour depending on the restaurant's tipping culture and customer volume. This supplementary income is a valuable boost to the base wage.
Sushi Chef Salary in Trenton vs. National Average
The national average salary for Sushi Chefs is approximately $20.07 per hour, with an annual salary around $41,745.60.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Trenton earn slightly less hourly at $18.00 per hour, and their annual salary is below the average at $37,440.00. This variation can reflect local economic conditions and demand but remains competitive within the New Jersey market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Trenton for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer modest increases in pay for Sushi Chefs:
- Mahzu East Windsor: $19.00 per hour
- Kura Sushi Cherry Hill: $18.50 per hour
These opportunities near Trenton provide attractive alternatives for Sushi Chefs seeking higher wages.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Trenton?
Several factors play into how much a Sushi Chef can make in Trenton:
- Experience and Mastery: More experienced Sushi Chefs who excel at intricate sushi techniques command higher salaries.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in niche sushi styles or additional culinary skills can increase earning potential.
- Establishment Type: Working at high-end sushi bars or Japanese restaurants typically offers better pay than fast-casual venues.
- Shift and Hours: Flexible availability or working during peak hours may result in shift differentials or bonuses.
- Certifications: Professional food safety certifications and recognized sushi chef credentials add great value.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Trenton
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Trenton involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Consider programs like the Mercer County Community College Culinary Arts Program, which includes courses in international cuisine and sushi preparation.
- Attend Hands-On Workshops: Participating in experiences such as the Princeton Adult School Sushi Making Workshop can develop practical skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often necessary for employment.
- Achieve Specialized Certification: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC), offered by the American Culinary Federation, validates expertise and professionalism.
- Gain Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level positions in restaurants help build foundational sushi-making skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Trenton
- Mahzu East Windsor
- Kura Sushi Cherry Hill
- MTEA Sushi & Dessert
- Soya Ramen Sushi Burrito
- Dolsan Korean BBQ & Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Trenton Work At
Sushi Chefs in Trenton are typically employed at a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Japanese Restaurants: Offer higher wages and the chance to work with premium ingredients.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Sushi Spots: Provide steady work often with lower salary ranges but more volume and tips.
- Buffets and Sushi Bars: May offer moderate pay but usually have high customer interaction.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Provide opportunities for event-based sushi preparation with potential for higher earnings.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary, with fine dining venues often paying the highest wages due to skill requirements and clientele.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Trenton for Sushi Chefs
For those interested in careers related to Sushi Chef, several similar roles exist in Trenton’s hospitality sector.
These include Commis Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, which require culinary expertise and share overlapping skills with Sushi Chef roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Trenton
Sushi Chefs working in Trenton should be familiar with federal and state labor laws as well as tax requirements to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- Detailed guidance on labor laws is available at the U.S. Department of Labor official website, which covers regulations and workers’ rights.
- For state-specific information, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development provides resources on employment laws and wage standards.