Sushi Chef Salary in Wichita, KS
Sushi Chefs in Wichita, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $18.50 per hour, which translates to about $740.00 per week, $3,206.67 per month, and $38,480.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Wichita is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled professionals in Japanese cuisine and sushi preparation in the area.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Wichita, KS?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Wichita depends on experience, skill level, and workplace, but here is an overview of what you can expect across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.50 | $740.00 | $3,206.67 | $38,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Wichita Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs in Wichita often earn tips in addition to their salary, especially in establishments where they interact directly with customers. It is typical for Sushi Chefs to earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant's tipping policy and customer volume.
Sushi Chef Salary in Wichita vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 annually.
In comparison, Sushi Chefs in Wichita earn around $18.50 per hour, or $38,480 per year, indicating that local salaries are higher than the national average. This likely reflects local market demands and the popularity of sushi dining experiences in Wichita.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wichita, KS for Sushi Chefs
When considering neighborhoods near Wichita, Sushi Chefs can expect varying pay rates:
- Downtown: $20.00 per hour
- East Wichita: $21.00 per hour
East Wichita offers the highest pay rates among nearby areas, likely due to a concentration of upscale dining establishments and higher demand for specialized culinary skills.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Wichita, KS?
Several factors influence the salary a Sushi Chef can earn in Wichita:
- Experience and culinary skill: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and knowledge of traditional sushi techniques generally command higher wages.
- Type of establishment: Fine dining and high-end Japanese restaurants typically pay better than fast casual or buffet-style eateries.
- Certifications and education: Completion of culinary arts programs or certifications can improve earning potential.
- Location within Wichita: Working in more affluent or busy districts like Downtown or East Wichita can result in higher pay.
- Additional skills: Ability to prepare diverse Japanese dishes or handle management responsibilities can also lead to increased compensation.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Wichita, KS
Becoming a successful Sushi Chef in Wichita requires a mix of formal training, practical experience, and certification:
- Complete culinary education programs: Programs such as the “WSU Tech Culinary Arts Program” at the National Institute for Culinary facility (NICHE) in downtown Wichita provide hands-on kitchen experience, including sushi preparation.
- Take specialized sushi making classes: For example, “Cozymeal Sushi Making Classes” offer interactive learning for sushi-specific skills such as rice preparation and rolling techniques.
- Obtain food safety certification: The “ServSafe Food Handler Certification” ensures knowledge of hygiene and proper handling of raw fish, critical for sushi chefs.
- Pursue professional certifications: The “American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification” offers credentials like Certified Culinarian to bolster your culinary career.
- Gain experience: Start working in kitchens to develop practical skills, possibly beginning as a sushi assistant or line cook.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Wichita, KS
Wichita features a growing sushi scene with notable employers seeking skilled Sushi Chefs:
- Hy-Vee
- Wasabi East
- UMI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Wichita Work At
Sushi Chefs in Wichita typically find employment in various types of food establishments, including:
- Fine dining restaurants: These offer the highest wages, focusing on authentic, high-quality sushi and extensive menus.
- Casual and fast casual eateries: These serve sushi with a quicker pace; salaries are generally moderate but can include tips.
- Japanese steakhouses: Combining hibachi styles and sushi bars, these venues often pay competitively.
- Supermarket sushi bars: Some larger grocers like Hy-Vee have sushi sections; pay tends to be lower but offers stable hours.
The type of establishment greatly influences wages and working conditions, with specialized and upscale venues offering better salaries and opportunities for skill development.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wichita, KS for Sushi Chefs
If you're interested in related culinary roles, here are some similar hospitality positions worth considering:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager, roles that encompass broader culinary responsibilities and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Wichita, KS
Sushi Chefs should be aware of important labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment:
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for overarching rules on wages, overtime, and work conditions.
- The Kansas Department of Labor website provides state-specific information including wage standards and employment rights.
- Local regulations can be found on the City of Wichita official website, which hosts relevant updates and labor resources.