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Sous Chef

A Sous Chef manages kitchen operations, prepares menus, supervises staff, and ensures high food quality and hygiene in a busy environment.

How do I become a sous chef

Get qualified to work as a sous chef with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Sous Chef generally earns $1,507 per week ($78,364 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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This industry has seen strong growth in employment numbers over the last five years. There are currently 101,000 people working in this field in Australia and many of them specialise as a Sous Chef. Sous Chefs may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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A Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Sous Chef. This course will give you the skills to prepare contemporary dishes using the latest international techniques. You’ll learn to work with meat, poultry, seafood, vegetables, cakes, pastries, desserts and breads.

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Further reading

Career spotlight: Hospitality professionals

17th September 2019

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

5 careers with high job satisfaction

5th August 2021

Sous Chef careers

A Sous Chef oversees the daily operations of a commercial kitchen. You’ll prepare menus and source ingredients and may have to liaise with a range of food suppliers. Sous Chefs ensure kitchens are running effectively and meals are prepared to a high standard. You’ll supervise kitchen staff, make sure food preparation areas are clean and hygienic and meals are prepared in an appropriate time.

Sous Chefs should be highly organised and able to handle the demands of a busy kitchen. You’ll need to be a good problem solver and able to manage several tasks at one time. Attention to detail is important and you’ll need to display good leadership skills. Sous Chefs should be good communicators and able to deal with staff from a range of backgrounds.