Sushi Chef Salary in Westminster, CO
Sushi Chefs in Westminster, CO, in 2026, earn approximately $21.85 per hour, which translates to about $874.00 per week, $3,787.33 per month, and $45,448.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Westminster is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this specialized culinary field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Westminster, CO?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Westminster varies based on experience, skills, and the type of employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.67 | $586.80 | $2,537.20 | $31,345.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.85 | $874.00 | $3,787.33 | $45,448.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.55 | $1,302.00 | $5,613.00 | $67,524.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Westminster Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, especially in upscale or specialty Japanese restaurants. They can earn an additional approximately $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer generosity.
Sushi Chef Salary in Westminster vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn around $19.90 per hour and about $41,392 per year.
Sushi Chefs in Westminster earn a higher hourly wage at $21.85 and an annual salary of $45,448, reflecting the competitive culinary market in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Westminster for Sushi Chefs
Nearby cities offer varied salaries for Sushi Chefs:
- Denver: $28.45 per hour
- Littleton: $25.08 per hour
Sushi Chefs seeking higher pay may consider positions in Denver or Littleton, where wages exceed those in Westminster.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Westminster?
Several key factors influence how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Westminster:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and mastery of traditional techniques typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Sushi Chefs at high-end restaurants or exclusive sushi bars generally receive higher salaries and better tips than those at casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) or completing specialized culinary courses can boost earning potential.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Chefs with strong reputations or who work in popular establishments may have increased tips and salary.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Westminster
To become a successful Sushi Chef in Westminster, candidates often follow these steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Enroll in reputable programs such as those at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, CO, or the Cook Street School of Culinary Arts in Denver, CO, which offer training in classical Japanese cuisines and sushi preparation.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earn the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
- Acquire Sushi-Specific Certification: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential, provided by the American Culinary Federation, validates specialized skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in sushi restaurants or Japanese dining establishments to build hands-on skills and knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Westminster
Several reputable establishments in Westminster hire skilled Sushi Chefs, including:
- Sushi Den
- Izakaya Den
- Sushi Sasa
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Westminster Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in various types of establishments such as:
- Casual and Upscale Japanese Restaurants: These offer diverse culinary environments, with upscale venues providing higher salaries and better tip opportunities.
- Sushi Bars and Specialty Dining: Such locations may provide more focused opportunities for artistic sushi preparation, leading to higher pay.
- Resort and Hotel Restaurants: These employers often pay well and offer benefits but may require broader culinary skills beyond sushi alone.
The type of establishment significantly impacts a Sushi Chef's earnings, with specialty and high-end restaurants typically offering the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Westminster for Sushi Chefs
Those interested in similar career paths to Sushi Chef may consider related roles that utilize culinary expertise and offer career growth.
Examples include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Partie—roles that share similar culinary skills and management potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Westminster
Sushi Chefs in Westminster should understand relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and make informed career decisions.
- Colorado state regulations and resources are available on the Official website of the State of Colorado.
- Federal labor laws and standards can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.