Sushi Chef in Wilmington, NC
Sushi Chefs in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $18.54 per hour, which translates to about $741.60 per week, $3,213.60 per month, and $38,563.20 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Wilmington is generally positive, with employment expected to grow at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in opportunities within the culinary industry for this specialty.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Wilmington varies by 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) | $14.12 | $564.80 | $2,442.13 | $29,337.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.54 | $741.60 | $3,213.60 | $38,563.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.35 | $974.00 | $4,204.67 | $50,648.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their salary, especially when working in restaurants where they interact with customers. It's possible to earn an extra $10 per hour or more in tips during busy shifts, which significantly supplements their base wage.
Sushi Chef Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn on average about $19.90 per hour and approximately $41,392 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Wilmington earn a bit less, at around $18.54 per hour and $38,563.20 annually. Factors like local cost of living and demand for specialized culinary skills play a role in these differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas where Sushi Chefs typically earn higher wages include:
- Downtown: $19.25 per hour
- Riverside: $18.75 per hour
Choosing to work in Downtown Wilmington may provide slightly better pay opportunities for Sushi Chefs compared to other nearby regions.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors influence how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Wilmington:
- Experience and Skill Level: Sushi Chefs with advanced knife skills and mastery of sushi techniques tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Sushi Chefs working in high-end or specialty restaurants generally earn more than those in casual dining or fast casual environments.
- Certifications and Training: Holding professional certifications like the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) can lead to better pay.
- Work Hours and Tips: Working peak hours or weekends can increase earnings through tips or shift differentials.
- Reputation and Location: Establishments in more affluent or tourist-heavy areas may pay more, reflecting market demand.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Wilmington
Launching a career as a Sushi Chef involves several key steps to build skill and credibility:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Programs such as the Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program provide broad culinary education including sushi preparation techniques.
- Attend Specialized Workshops: Short-term courses like UNC Wilmington Continuing Education Culinary Workshops offer focused training in sushi making.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Essential credentials include the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is often required by employers.
- Earn Professional Certification: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) certification demonstrates expertise and can enhance job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working under experienced Sushi Chefs or starting as a kitchen assistant is crucial for skill development.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Wilmington
Some of the leading restaurants and businesses hiring Sushi Chefs in Wilmington include:
- The Bento Box
- Nikki's Sushi Bar
- Genki Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Wilmington Work At
Sushi Chefs commonly find employment in a variety of settings, such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues offer consistent hours but tend to pay lower wages compared to upscale locations.
- Specialty Sushi Bars and Fine Dining: Positions here require higher skills and consequently offer higher pay and tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: These often provide better benefits and steady work.
- Catering Services and Events: Opportunities here can vary significantly but may offer lucrative pay for special occasions.
The type of establishment can greatly impact a Sushi Chef’s salary, with fine dining and specialty bars leading to the highest earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Sushi Chefs
If you're considering similar roles within the hospitality and culinary fields, you might look into careers such as:
These roles include Commis Chef, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, offering varied responsibilities and salary ranges in the culinary sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Wilmington
Sushi Chefs should be informed about local and federal labor laws that affect their employment rights and tax obligations.
- Learn about state-specific labor rules on the North Carolina official website, where you can find comprehensive information on worker protections and regulations.
- For federal labor standards, wages, and employment laws, the U.S. Department of Labor website is a valuable resource.