Kitchen - Sous Chef
$52K - $70K/yr
As the key leader in the kitchen, the Sous Chef supports the Chef de Cuidine in managing all kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and team performance.
Kitchen - Sous Chef
$52K - $70K/yr
As the key leader in the kitchen, the Sous Chef supports the Chef de Cuidine in managing all kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and team performance.
Kitchen - Sous Chef
$52K - $70K/yr
As the key leader in the kitchen, the Sous Chef supports the Chef de Cuidine in managing all kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and team performance.
Kitchen - Sous Chef
$52K - $70K/yr
As the key leader in the kitchen, the Sous Chef supports the Chef de Cuidine in managing all kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and team performance.
Kitchen - Sous Chef
Ojai, CA · On-site
$81K/yr
As the key leader in the kitchen, the Sous Chef supports the Chef de Cuidine in managing all kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and team performance.
Kitchen - Sous Chef
Ojai, CA · On-site
$81K/yr
As the key leader in the kitchen, the Sous Chef supports the Chef de Cuidine in managing all kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and team performance.
Sous Chef
Carmel, CA · On-site
$75K - $80K/yr
Manage hourly kitchen employees through scheduling, payroll, training, coaching, evaluating and ... Sous Chefs report directly to the Executive Sous Chef and/or Executive Chef. Hyatt Hotels & Resorts ...
Sous Chef
Carmel, CA · On-site
$75K - $80K/yr
Manage hourly kitchen employees through scheduling, payroll, training, coaching, evaluating and ... Sous Chefs report directly to the Executive Sous Chef and/or Executive Chef. Hyatt Hotels & Resorts ...
Sous Chef
Carmel, CA · On-site
$75K - $80K/yr
Manage hourly kitchen employees through scheduling, payroll, training, coaching, evaluating and ... Sous Chefs report directly to the Executive Sous Chef and/or Executive Chef. Hyatt Hotels & Resorts ...
Sous Chef
Carmel, CA · On-site
$75K - $80K/yr
Manage hourly kitchen employees through scheduling, payroll, training, coaching, evaluating and ... Sous Chefs report directly to the Executive Sous Chef and/or Executive Chef. Hyatt Hotels & Resorts ...
Brio-Sous Chef
Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site
$50K - $68K/yr
The Sous Chef assists in managing the kitchen and kitchen personnel. Under the supervision of the Executive Sous Chef and Executive Chef directs, implements, and maintains a philosophy congruent with ...
Brio-Sous Chef
Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site
$50K - $68K/yr
The Sous Chef assists in managing the kitchen and kitchen personnel. Under the supervision of the Executive Sous Chef and Executive Chef directs, implements, and maintains a philosophy congruent with ...
Sous Chef
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$70K - $75K/yr
Sous Chef SAAM is seeking an experienced and passionate Sous Chef to join our culinary team in San ... Support the Executive Chef in managing daily kitchen operations * Lead, train, and supervise the ...
Quick apply
Sous Chef
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$70K - $75K/yr
Sous Chef SAAM is seeking an experienced and passionate Sous Chef to join our culinary team in San ... Support the Executive Chef in managing daily kitchen operations * Lead, train, and supervise the ...
Sous Chef
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$58K - $79K/yr
Key Responsibilities • Support the Executive Chef in managing daily kitchen operations • Lead ... Sous Chef, or in a similar kitchen leadership role • Extensive knowledge of and hands-on ...
Sous Chef
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$58K - $79K/yr
Key Responsibilities • Support the Executive Chef in managing daily kitchen operations • Lead ... Sous Chef, or in a similar kitchen leadership role • Extensive knowledge of and hands-on ...
Sous Chef
$57K - $77K/yr
Junior Sous Chef (Temporary, with the opportunity for permanent placement) CUT by Wolfgang Puck ... This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a high-performing kitchen where standards are ...
Quick apply
Sous Chef
$57K - $77K/yr
Junior Sous Chef (Temporary, with the opportunity for permanent placement) CUT by Wolfgang Puck ... This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a high-performing kitchen where standards are ...
Sous Chef
Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site
$64K - $75K/yr
Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant * Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine knowledge, and ...
Sous Chef
Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site
$64K - $75K/yr
Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant * Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine knowledge, and ...
Sous Chef
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$53K - $72K/yr
As a Sous Chef, you will be responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in menu development ... Ability to manage and train kitchen staff * Strong organizational and time management skills
Sous Chef
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$53K - $72K/yr
As a Sous Chef, you will be responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in menu development ... Ability to manage and train kitchen staff * Strong organizational and time management skills
Sous Chef
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$75K - $90K/yr
Job Requirements Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine ...
Sous Chef
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$75K - $90K/yr
Job Requirements Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine ...
Sous Chef
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$75K - $90K/yr
Job Requirements Proven success as an Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager in a high- volume upscale restaurant or high end resort restaurant Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine ...
Sous Chef
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$75K - $90K/yr
Job Requirements Proven success as an Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager in a high- volume upscale restaurant or high end resort restaurant Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine ...
Sous Chef
Carmel, CA · On-site
$55K - $74K/yr
Manage hourly kitchen employees through scheduling, payroll, training, coaching, evaluating and ... senior Sous Chefs * Lead and coach the team towards achieving exceptional guest service and ...
Sous Chef
Carmel, CA · On-site
$55K - $74K/yr
Manage hourly kitchen employees through scheduling, payroll, training, coaching, evaluating and ... senior Sous Chefs * Lead and coach the team towards achieving exceptional guest service and ...
Sous Chef
$53K - $72K/yr
As a Sous Chef, you will be responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in menu development ... Ability to manage and train kitchen staff * Strong organizational and time management skills
Sous Chef
$53K - $72K/yr
As a Sous Chef, you will be responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in menu development ... Ability to manage and train kitchen staff * Strong organizational and time management skills
Sous Chef
$64K - $75K/yr
Job Requirements Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine ...
Sous Chef
$64K - $75K/yr
Job Requirements Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine ...
Sous Chef
$53K - $72K/yr
As a Sous Chef, you will be responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in menu development ... Ability to manage and train kitchen staff * Strong organizational and time management skills
Sous Chef
$53K - $72K/yr
As a Sous Chef, you will be responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in menu development ... Ability to manage and train kitchen staff * Strong organizational and time management skills
Sous Chef
$53K - $72K/yr
As a Sous Chef, you will be responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in menu development ... Ability to manage and train kitchen staff * Strong organizational and time management skills
Sous Chef
$53K - $72K/yr
As a Sous Chef, you will be responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in menu development ... Ability to manage and train kitchen staff * Strong organizational and time management skills
Sous Chef
Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site
$64K - $75K/yr
Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant * Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine knowledge, and ...
Sous Chef
Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site
$64K - $75K/yr
Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant * Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine knowledge, and ...
Sous Chef
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$75K - $90K/yr
Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant * Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine knowledge, and ...
Sous Chef
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$75K - $90K/yr
Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant * Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine knowledge, and ...
Kitchen Sous Chef information
See California salary details
$30.1K - $34.3K
2% of jobs
$34.3K - $38.5K
4% of jobs
$38.5K - $42.8K
7% of jobs
$42.8K - $47K
7% of jobs
$49.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$47K - $51.2K
8% of jobs
$51.2K - $55.4K
11% of jobs
The median wage is $58.6K / yr.
$55.4K - $59.6K
13% of jobs
$59.6K - $63.8K
17% of jobs
$65.3K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$63.8K - $68.1K
15% of jobs
$68.1K - $72.3K
9% of jobs
$72.3K - $76.5K
6% of jobs
$30.1K
$58.2K
$76.5K
How much do kitchen sous chef jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for kitchen sous chef in California is $58,226.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $66,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a kitchen sous chef?
A Kitchen Sous Chef is the second-in-command in a kitchen, working directly under the Head Chef (or Executive Chef). They help oversee kitchen operations, manage and train staff, ensure food quality and consistency, and assist in menu planning and inventory control. The Sous Chef often steps in to lead the kitchen in the Head Chef’s absence, making the role critical for maintaining smooth kitchen workflow. This position typically requires strong culinary skills, leadership abilities, and experience in a professional kitchen environment.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kitchen sous chef, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Kitchen Sous Chef, you need advanced culinary skills, experience in food preparation and kitchen operations, and typically a degree or certification from a culinary school. Familiarity with kitchen management systems, inventory software, and food safety certifications (like ServSafe) is highly valued. Leadership, teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication are crucial soft skills for managing staff and ensuring smooth service. These qualifications are essential for maintaining high food quality, efficient kitchen operations, and a positive work environment.
What are some common challenges a kitchen sous chef faces, and how can they be addressed?
A Kitchen Sous Chef often faces challenges such as managing high-pressure situations during peak service hours, coordinating between kitchen staff, and ensuring consistent food quality. To address these, strong organizational skills, clear communication, and the ability to multitask are essential. Building a collaborative relationship with both the head chef and team members can help streamline operations, while continuous learning and adaptability are key to overcoming unexpected issues in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
What is the difference between Kitchen Sous Chef vs Kitchen Chef?
| Aspect | Kitchen Sous Chef | Kitchen Chef |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Culinary degree or equivalent experience | Culinary degree or extensive experience |
| Work Environment | Assists head chef in daily operations, supervises kitchen staff | Leads kitchen, plans menus, manages overall kitchen activities |
| Responsibilities | Supports head chef, manages kitchen staff, ensures quality | Creates menus, oversees food prep, manages kitchen workflow |
The Kitchen Sous Chef acts as the second-in-command in the kitchen, supporting the Kitchen Chef in daily operations and staff supervision. The Kitchen Chef is responsible for overall kitchen management, menu creation, and leadership. While both roles require culinary credentials and experience, the Sous Chef focuses on assisting and supervising, whereas the Kitchen Chef leads and makes strategic decisions.
Can I be a kitchen sous chef with no experience?
Becoming a kitchen sous chef typically requires prior experience in a professional kitchen, such as working as a line cook or cook. While some entry-level positions may offer training, most employers prefer candidates with culinary skills, knowledge of kitchen operations, and familiarity with food safety standards.
How much is a kitchen sous chef paid?
A kitchen sous chef's salary typically ranges from $35,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the size of the establishment. They often work long hours in fast-paced environments and may receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.
What does a kitchen sous chef do in a kitchen?
A kitchen sous chef is a senior kitchen staff member who assists the head chef in managing kitchen operations, supervising staff, and ensuring food quality and safety standards. They often oversee food preparation, coordinate kitchen activities, and may step in to lead during the head chef's absence.
What cities in California are hiring for Kitchen Sous Chef jobs?
Cities in California with the most Kitchen Sous Chef job openings:
$52K - $70K/yr
Full-time
Re-posted 27 days ago
Job description
We are seeking a passionate and experienced Sous Chef to join our culinary team. As the key leader in the kitchen, the Sous Chef supports the Chef de Cuidine in managing all kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and team performance. This role requires strong leadership, creativity, and organizational skills in a fast-paced restaurant environment
Responsibilities
- Assist the Chef de cuisine in all aspects of kitchen operations, including menu planning, inventory, food preparation, and service.
- Supervise and lead kitchen staff, ensuring consistency, quality, and compliance with recipes and standards.
- Train, mentor, and schedule kitchen team members to maximize productivity and maintain morale.
- Monitor food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness according to health regulations and company policies.
- Ensure timely and efficient execution of dishes during service, maintaining exceptional presentation and taste.
- Help manage inventory levels, ordering, and cost control to minimize waste and support profitability.
- Step in and lead the kitchen in the absence of the Chef de Cuisine
Skills and Abilities
Able to work flexible hours and days including holidays.
Knowledge of current and updated culinary trends.
Ability to lead and mentor a large team of culinary professionals.
Able to plan and execute multiple events at the same time and cook in remote locations.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of two years experience in a high volume production kitchen or restaurant, and a minimum of two years experience as a Sous Chef or above.
- AOS or higher degree from an accredited university in Culinary Arts, Hotel and Restaurant Management, or related major. Very good knowledge of food safety, sanitation, food preparation techniques.