Sushi Chef Salary in Vancouver, WA
Sushi Chefs in Vancouver, WA, in 2026, earn approximately $24.53 per hour, which translates to about $981.20 per week, $4,251.87 per month, and $51,022.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Vancouver is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and an increasing appreciation for culinary professionals specializing in sushi in the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Vancouver, WA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Vancouver can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview of earnings across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.05 | $802.00 | $3,479.33 | $41,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.53 | $981.20 | $4,251.87 | $51,022.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.01 | $1,200.40 | $5,201.73 | $62,419.60 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Vancouver Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs commonly do earn tips as part of their income, especially in restaurants where direct customer interaction or custom orders are involved. Tips can amount to an extra $10 per hour or more, depending on the establishment and shift.
Sushi Chef Salary in Vancouver vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $18.50 and an annual salary around $38,480.
Sushi Chefs in Vancouver earn somewhat more at $24.53 per hour and $51,022 annually, which reflects a higher local cost of living and demand for skilled sushi culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Vancouver for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas around Vancouver, WA, offer competitive salaries for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown Vancouver: $25.00 per hour
- East Vancouver: $24.00 per hour
Choosing to work in Downtown Vancouver could offer slightly higher pay compared to East Vancouver, though both areas pay well for this specialized role.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Vancouver?
Several factors play a role in determining how much a Sushi Chef can earn:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sushi Chefs with excellent knife skills and intricate sushi preparation techniques tend to command higher pay.
- Skills and Certifications: Additional skills such as knowledge of Japanese cuisine and formal culinary training can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or specialty sushi bars usually pays more than casual dining chains.
- Location within Vancouver: Central areas or trendy neighborhoods may offer better compensation due to higher clientele spending.
- Shift and Schedule: Evening and weekend shifts might come with differential pay or more tipping opportunities.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Vancouver
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Vancouver involves several steps:
- Enroll in culinary programs: Consider attending culinary arts programs such as the Clark College Culinary Arts Program that includes sushi preparation techniques or the Portland Community College Culinary Arts Program nearby with specialties in Asian cuisine.
- Obtain essential food safety credentials: A Food Handler's Permit issued by Washington State is mandatory for all food service workers.
- Earn nationally recognized certifications: The ServSafe Certification is highly valued by employers for ensuring knowledge in food safety and sanitation.
- Gain hands-on experience: Working as a kitchen assistant or apprentice under experienced Sushi Chefs will develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Vancouver
Several renowned sushi establishments in Vancouver actively seek skilled Sushi Chefs, including:
- Shinsen Sushi LLC
- Sushi Chiyo
- Sushi Hana
- Mio Sushi
- Sushi Mo
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Vancouver Work At
Sushi Chefs find employment in a range of food service settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments usually offer the highest salaries as they demand exceptional skills and presentation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Pay here is moderate but may include steady shifts and tipping opportunities.
- Sushi Bars and Specialty Shops: These settings focus on sushi cuisine and often reward expertise with competitive wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Such venues may offer higher wages in exchange for broader culinary duties and upscale clientele.
The type of employer can significantly impact the salary due to varying levels of responsibility, clientele, and prestige.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Vancouver for Sushi Chefs
If you're interested in careers related to Sushi Chef, consider these similar jobs within the hospitality industry:
These correspond to Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, which share overlapping culinary skills and career progression paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Vancouver
Understanding labor laws and tax compliance is important for Sushi Chefs working in Vancouver, WA.
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries - State labor laws and workplace rights provides guidelines on minimum wage, work hours, and safety standards.
- Internal Revenue Service - Federal tax information and employer guidelines offers resources on taxation and reporting requirements for employees and employers.