Sous Chef Salary in San Jose, CA

Updated on Feb 08, 2025
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How much does a Sous Chef make in San Jose, CA?

The average salary for a Sous Chef is $71,533 per year in San Jose, CA.

In San Jose, CA, the average yearly salary for a Sous Chef is approximately $71,533. This pay reflects the skills and experience needed in this role, as well as the cost of living in the area.


Salaries for Sous Chefs can vary widely. At the lower end, some earn around $38,000 annually. As you gain experience, your salary can rise significantly. For example, with several years in the industry, it's possible to earn over $100,000 per year.


Many factors can influence a Sous Chef's salary, including the type of restaurant, its location, and the chef's level of expertise. More upscale dining establishments often offer higher wages. Additionally, Sous Chefs who take on more responsibilities may see an increase in their earnings.


Overall, working as a Sous Chef in San Jose can lead to a rewarding career, both in terms of job satisfaction and financial compensation.

View Sous Chef Jobs in San Jose, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Sous Chef near San Jose, CA?

For Sous Chef positions near San Jose, Atherton, CA stands out with an impressive average salary of $116,695. Other notable cities include Los Altos and Stanford, offering salaries of $80,343 and $79,177, respectively. These locations provide strong opportunities for skilled chefs looking to enhance their careers and earnings in a vibrant culinary market.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Sous Chef jobs near San Jose, CA, highlighting Atherton, CA with the highest at $116,695 and Sunnyvale, CA with the lowest at $67,694.
  1. Atherton, CA
    Average Salary: $116,695
    Working in Atherton offers a unique chance to prepare exquisite dishes for some of the wealthiest residents in the country. The close-knit community appreciates fine dining, which means your culinary skills will be put to the test at upscale events and private gatherings.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Atherton, CA


  2. Los Altos, CA
    Average Salary: $80,343
    In Los Altos, a strong emphasis on farm-to-table dining enhances your role in creating fresh, locally sourced dishes. You will have the opportunity to work alongside renowned restaurants and caterers, known for their innovative cuisine and commitment to quality.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Los Altos, CA


  3. Stanford, CA
    Average Salary: $79,177
    Stanford's vibrant dining scene blends a mix of cultures from the university community. As a culinary leader here, you will develop creative menus tailored for students and staff, showcasing local ingredients and diverse flavors.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Stanford, CA


  4. Menlo Park, CA
    Average Salary: $77,927
    Menlo Park is known for its tech scene and the influence it has on dining preferences. Many restaurants cater to busy professionals, allowing you to design quick yet gourmet options that appeal to a fast-paced clientele.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Menlo Park, CA


  5. Mountain View, CA
    Average Salary: $77,377
    Mountain View boasts a lively atmosphere filled with diverse eateries reflecting the city's multicultural population. Your role involves crafting inventive dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes, ensuring a rewarding culinary experience.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Mountain View, CA


  6. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $75,849
    In Palo Alto, creativity in the kitchen leads the way as the city embraces fine dining and innovative culinary trends. You will work in an environment that encourages experimentation and showcases seasonal ingredients.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  7. Morgan Hill, CA
    Average Salary: $73,412
    Morgan Hill offers a charming community atmosphere with a focus on local produce and wines. As a chef here, you can create menus that highlight regional flavors and foster connections with local farmers and artisans.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Morgan Hill, CA


  8. Santa Clara, CA
    Average Salary: $71,213
    Santa Clara blends tradition with modern culinary trends. You will work alongside various famous restaurants and caterers, crafting dishes that reflect both local tastes and global influences.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Santa Clara, CA


  9. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $69,718
    Los Gatos is known for its upscale dining experiences surrounded by beautiful scenery. Working here means collaborating with talent in the culinary arts to create memorable dishes for both locals and visitors.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Los Gatos, CA


  10. Sunnyvale, CA
    Average Salary: $67,694
    Sunnyvale features a rich tapestry of culinary offerings influenced by its diverse population. As a culinary expert, you will enjoy the challenge of creating dishes that reflect this multicultural influence while maintaining high standards.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Sunnyvale, CA

What are the best paying companies for Sous Chef in San Jose, CA?

For those seeking Sous Chef positions in San Jose, CA, several companies stand out for their impressive salaries. Hilton leads the pack with an average salary of $105,206, followed closely by Sodexo at $101,536. Other notable employers include the Chef Agency and Hotel Valencia Santana Row, offering average salaries of $87,833 and $86,375, respectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Sous Chef jobs in San Jose, CA, highlighting Hilton with the highest at $105,206 and LSG Sky Chefs with the lowest at $80,772.
  1. Hilton
    Average Salary: $105,206
    Hilton offers a dynamic work environment for Sous Chefs in San Jose, CA, with opportunities at several locations. Team members enjoy competitive salaries and exceptional growth potential in the hospitality industry.


  2. Sodexo
    Average Salary: $101,536
    Sodexo provides a variety of dining services in San Jose, CA, focusing on corporate and educational clients. As a Sous Chef, you will create appealing menus and work in a supportive team environment.


  3. the Chef Agency
    Average Salary: $87,833
    The Chef Agency specializes in placing culinary professionals in various venues in San Jose, CA. As a Sous Chef, you will have the chance to work in diverse settings and sharpen your skills while earning a competitive salary.


  4. Hotel Valencia Santana Row
    Average Salary: $86,375
    Hotel Valencia Santana Row creates memorable dining experiences and provides a stylish workplace for Sous Chefs. The hotel is located in a vibrant area of San Jose, offering excellent opportunities for culinary growth.


  5. Maggiano's Little Italy
    Average Salary: $86,250
    Maggiano's Little Italy provides a warm atmosphere that values family-style dining. As a Sous Chef in San Jose, you will work in a bustling kitchen, learning from experienced chefs and developing your culinary techniques.


  6. Aramark
    Average Salary: $82,967
    Aramark caters to various sectors, including education and healthcare, in San Jose, CA. Working as a Sous Chef, you will create healthy and delicious meals while contributing to a company dedicated to service and quality.


  7. Oak View Group
    Average Salary: $82,383
    Oak View Group offers unique catering opportunities in San Jose, CA, especially in event venues. Sous Chefs can expect to thrive in a fast-paced environment, delivering memorable dining experiences for guests.


  8. Chartwells Higher Education
    Average Salary: $82,333
    Chartwells focuses on providing exceptional dining services in higher education institutions. As a Sous Chef in San Jose, you will interact with students and create innovative menus that cater to diverse tastes.


  9. DoorDash
    Average Salary: $82,000
    DoorDash operates a unique culinary model, focusing on food delivery services. As a Sous Chef, you will help ensure culinary quality and creativity in meals prepared for delivery across San Jose.


  10. LSG Sky Chefs
    Average Salary: $80,772
    LSG Sky Chefs specializes in inflight catering, serving airlines in San Jose, CA. Sous Chefs will enjoy a well-structured environment, focusing on efficiency and quality while preparing meals for air travelers.

There are 6,194 Sous Chef job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Sous Chef in the US?

Learn what a Sous Chef does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Sous Chef today.
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Sous Chef
6,194 Job Openings
Understanding the Sous Chef Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire