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Japanese Chef Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Asia Live Valley Fair

Sous Chef

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

Talented Sous Chef at Asia Live Valley Fair Are you looking for a dynamic work environment where ... Japanese cuisine experience preferred. Benefits * Competitive salary with comprehensive health ...

Innovative Dining Group

Sushi Chef

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

Join the Sushi Roku Team - Now hiring Sushi Chefs! Sushi Roku is a game-changer in the world of ... This innovative Japanese sushi concept brings together a blend of inventive fusion dishes, a ...

Sushi Roku Newport Beach

Sushi Chef

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

Description Join the Sushi Roku Team - Now hiring Sushi Chefs! Sushi Roku is a game-changer in the ... This innovative Japanese sushi concept brings together a blend of inventive fusion dishes, a ...

Asia Live Valley Fair

Sous Chef

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

Join Asia Live Valley Fair, a vibrant player in the Food & Beverage industry, as our highly skilled Sous Chef with Japanese cuisine experience . This is your chance to work in a lively kitchen, learn ...

Sushi Roku Newport Beach

Sushi Chef

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

Description Join the Sushi Roku Team - Now hiring Sushi Chefs! Sushi Roku is a game-changer in the ... This innovative Japanese sushi concept brings together a blend of inventive fusion dishes, a ...

Sushi Roku - Santa Monica

Sushi Chef

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

This innovative Japanese sushi concept brings together a blend of inventive fusion dishes, a ... skilled Sushi Chef to join our culinary team and create delicious plates for our guest.

Innovative Dining Group

Sushi Chef

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

Join the Sushi Roku Team - Now hiring Sushi Chefs! Sushi Roku is a game-changer in the world of ... This innovative Japanese sushi concept brings together a blend of inventive fusion dishes, a ...

Innovative Dining Group

Sushi Chef

Manhattan Beach, CA · On-site

A Sushi Chef is trained in Japanese cuisine and prepares different kinds of rolls in our sushi restaurants. Responsibilities include preparing sauces, selecting ingredients, storing food, managing ...

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Japanese Chef information

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How much do japanese chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for japanese chef in California is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $30.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Japanese chef?

A Japanese Chef is a culinary professional specializing in Japanese cuisine, including sushi, ramen, tempura, and other traditional dishes. They are skilled in techniques such as knife work, food presentation, and ingredient selection to ensure authenticity. Japanese Chefs work in restaurants, hotels, or specialty kitchens, preparing high-quality dishes while maintaining hygiene and safety standards. Their role may also involve menu creation, sourcing ingredients, and training kitchen staff.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Japanese chef?

A Japanese Chef typically spends their day preparing and presenting dishes such as sushi, sashimi, tempura, and other traditional Japanese fare, ensuring each plate meets exacting culinary and aesthetic standards. Duties may include sourcing fresh ingredients, overseeing kitchen staff, maintaining knife skills, and upholding strict hygiene protocols. You may also interact with guests to explain dishes or take special requests, especially in open kitchen or omakase settings. Busy shifts often require efficient multitasking and close coordination with sous chefs and other team members to deliver a seamless dining experience. This role offers a dynamic work environment where dedication and passion for authentic cuisine are highly valued.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Japanese chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Japanese Chef, you need expertise in traditional Japanese cooking techniques, a deep understanding of ingredient selection, and usually formal culinary training or apprenticeship experience. Familiarity with specialized kitchen tools like sushi knives, rice cookers, and potentially certification in food safety or from culinary associations is highly beneficial. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills distinguish outstanding chefs in this field. These qualities are essential to maintain the authenticity, quality, and high standards expected in Japanese cuisine and to excel in a collaborative kitchen environment.

How much do Japanese chefs get paid?

Japanese chefs' salaries vary based on experience, location, and establishment, but on average, they earn between $25,000 and $60,000 annually. Skilled chefs with certifications and experience working in high-end restaurants can earn higher wages, especially in major cities or international markets.

What are the most commonly searched types of Japanese Chef jobs in California?

The most popular types of Japanese Chef jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Japanese Chef jobs in California?

For Japanese Chef jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Japanese Chef jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Japanese Chef jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Japanese Chef jobs?

Cities in California with the most Japanese Chef job openings:

Japanese Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Japanese Chef job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,554 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Sushi Sous Chef

ROOFTOP HOSPITALITY GROUP LLC

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

At KAIYO , we pride ourselves on delivering an exceptional dining experience centered around the artistry of Nikkei cuisine. We are currently seeking an experienced and dedicated Sushi Chef with refined culinary skills, leadership ability, and a commitment to excellence. If you are passionate about sushi and thrive in a high-performance, hospitality-driven environment, we would love to meet you. 
Executive Chef Alex Reccio and Executive Sushi Chef Kenji Sawada, blending their Peruvian and Japanese backgrounds to deliver a menu full of inventive handrolls, signature sushi rolls, and dynamic small plates.

Employment Type:
Full-Time

Compensation:
  • Base Salary: $75,000/year
  • Tips
  • Quarterly Performance-Based Bonus
  • Benefits Package:
    • Health Insurance
    • Dental Insurance
    • Vision Insurance
    • 401(k) Retirement Plan
Ideal Candidate Profile:

  • 5+ years of experience in a Japanese restaurant, with a strong understanding of the craft
  • Minimum 1 year of experience working in an Omakase-style restaurant
  • 3+ years in a professional, hospitality-driven restaurant
  • Proven experience in a leadership role (Sous Sushi Chef or comparable)
  • Expertise in fish butchering and maintaining the highest standards of fish quality
  • Certified in food safety, sanitation, and handling procedures
  • A neat, clean, and well-groomed professional appearance
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships across all teams (GM, ownership, FOH, BOH)
  • A meticulous attention to detail, ensuring products are received in correct unit count and condition
  • A commitment to teamwork, training, and ongoing professional development
Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee and execute the highest standards of sushi preparation, presentation, and service
  • Butcher fish expertly and efficiently, maintaining top-quality cuts for sushi and sashimi
  • Ensure consistent quality control of all ingredients, with particular attention to fish storage and handling
  • Uphold strict health and safety standards while maintaining a clean and organized kitchen
  • Lead the training and mentorship of junior staff, fostering a culture of learning and growth
  • Maintain effective communication with the Front of House (FOH) and Back of House (BOH) teams to ensure a seamless guest experience
Why Work With Us?

  • Competitive salary with opportunities for professional growth
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance to support your well-being
  • Robust 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions
  • A respectful, team-oriented work environment built on excellence and hospitality
  • The opportunity to contribute to a prestigious restaurant that combines authenticity with innovation in Japanese cuisine
If you are a skilled sushi professional with a passion for high-quality ingredients and leadership, we invite you to join our team and contribute to an exceptional dining experience.