Sushi Chef Salary in Upper-Darby, PA
Sushi Chefs in Upper-Darby, PA earn approximately $18.29 per hour, which breaks down to about $731.60 per week, $3,170.27 per month, and $38,043.20 per year.
The overall job outlook for Sushi Chefs in Upper-Darby is positive with a growth rate of around 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and promising career opportunities in this specialized culinary field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Upper-Darby, PA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Upper-Darby varies by level of experience and skill. Here’s an overview of estimated earnings at different career stages:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.40 | $576.00 | $2,492.80 | $29,952.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.29 | $731.60 | $3,170.27 | $38,043.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.24 | $929.60 | $4,025.07 | $48,339.20 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Upper-Darby Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, especially in busy restaurants where interaction with customers occurs. They can earn an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer generosity, which significantly boosts overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Upper-Darby, PA vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Sushi Chefs is approximately $17.71 per hour, translating to an annual salary near $36,836.80.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Upper-Darby earn slightly more, with an average wage of $18.29 per hour and an annual salary of about $38,043.20. This reflects regional demand and cost of living factors in Pennsylvania.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Upper-Darby for Sushi Chefs
Nearby locations offer varying salary levels for Sushi Chefs:
- Philadelphia: $18.29 per hour
- Wynnewood: $18.05 per hour
These surrounding areas provide competitive salaries similar to Upper-Darby, making the region overall promising for Sushi Chef employment.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Upper-Darby, PA?
Several factors impact the earning potential of a Sushi Chef in Upper-Darby:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and extensive knowledge of fish selection tend to command higher wages.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary training or certifications related to Japanese cuisine or sushi preparation can enhance salary prospects.
- Establishment Type: High-end Japanese restaurants or luxury hotels usually pay more compared to casual or fast food sushi venues.
- Shift Hours and Location: Working in busier urban centers or during peak hours can influence earnings positively.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Upper-Darby, PA
If you aspire to become a Sushi Chef in Upper-Darby, consider these key steps:
- Attend Culinary Schools: Enroll in institutions such as the JNA Institute of Culinary Arts in Philadelphia or The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College, which specialize in sushi preparation and Japanese culinary arts.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Acquire essential certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Obtain Sushi Specialist Certifications: Aim for the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential offered by the American Culinary Federation to validate your specific expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Apprenticeships and entry-level positions in sushi restaurants can provide invaluable hands-on learning.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Upper-Darby
Some of the most notable restaurants actively hiring Sushi Chefs in Upper-Darby include:
- Sushi Land
- Tokyo Sushi
- Sakura Japanese Restaurant
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Upper-Darby Work At
Sushi Chefs in Upper-Darby typically find employment within various establishment types:
- Fine Dining Japanese Restaurants: Offering the highest paying opportunities due to the upscale clientele and intricate menu offerings.
- Casual Dining Sushi Bars: Provide steady income with moderate salaries and more tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual & Takeout Bars: Typically offer lower hourly wages but provide experience and steady work.
- Hotels and Resorts: These often pay competitive wages and may include benefits.
The type of establishment can significantly influence the salary, along with additional perks like tips and healthcare benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Upper-Darby, PA for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in roles similar to Sushi Chef, consider the following related culinary careers that also feature rewarding opportunities:
These include Head Chef, Commis Chef, and Chef de Cuisine positions, which offer different scopes of responsibility and pay scales within professional kitchens.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Upper-Darby, PA
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Sushi Chefs working in Upper-Darby, PA.
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry for comprehensive details on state labor regulations and workplace rights.
- The Internal Revenue Service provides federal tax information valuable for compliance and planning.
- For local rules and resources, consult the City of Philadelphia official website.