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A Chef Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cellino Foods

Chef

Livermore, CA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary We are seeking a talented Chef to join our team. In this role, you'll be responsible for creating innovative menus and preparing delicious meals for our ...

Aramark

Chef Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

We know that a Chef's job isn't only about the food. It takes skills, dedication, patience, and the right opportunities. We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer ...

Koch Industries

Area Sales Manager

Modesto, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Who We Are As a Koch company and a leading manufacturer of bath tissue, paper towels, paper-based packaging, cellulose, specialty fibers, building products and much more, Georgia-Pacific works to ...

Beer Baron Whiskey Bar & Kitchen

Head Chef

Livermore, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Previous experience as a Head Chef or Kitchen Manager preferred * Strong leadership and communication skills * Ability to work in a fast-paced environment * Knowledge of food safety and kitchen ...

Vallarta Supermarkets

Culinary Field Chef

Modesto, CA · On-site

This position serves as a key field resource, supporting menu execution, recipe adherence, training, and operational improvements. The Culinary Field Chef collaborates closely with the Corporate Chef ...

Vallarta Supermarkets

Culinary Field Chef

Merced, CA

This position serves as a key field resource, supporting menu execution, recipe adherence, training, and operational improvements. The Culinary Field Chef collaborates closely with the Corporate Chef ...

Oak Valley Hospital

Executive Chef

Oakdale, CA · On-site

$100 - $120/hr

Oak Valley Hospital District is currently seeking a dynamic Executive Chef who will embrace our mission, vision, and values. Created to provide residents of Oakdale and the surrounding rural ...

Charming Fig

Experienced Chef

Livermore, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Charming Fig is a casual dining restaurant expanding from the current catering business that has been successful for the last 13 years. We are looking for an experienced chef to help us in the ...

Charming Fig

Experienced Chef

Livermore, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Charming Fig is a casual dining restaurant expanding from the current catering business that has been successful for the last 13 years. We are looking for an experienced chef to help us in the ...

Charming Fig

Experienced Chef

Livermore, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Charming Fig is a casual dining restaurant expanding from the current catering business that has been successful for the last 13 years. We are looking for an experienced chef to help us in the ...

Lucky Strike Entertainment

Executive Chef

Manteca, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

From a humble beginning with one bowling center in 1997, we redefined an industry and built a ... The Role As Executive Chef at Lucky Strike Entertainment, you will work the line five days a week ...

Lucky Strike

Executive Chef

Manteca, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

From a humble beginning with one bowling center in 1997, we redefined an industry and built a ... Overview The Role As Executive Chef at Lucky Strike Entertainment, you will work the line five days ...

Sutter Health

Executive Chef

Modesto, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Chef Certification OR Other: Formal culinary training CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE: SS-Serve Save ... Ability to interpret a variety of data and instructions, furnished in written, oral, diagram, or ...

Sutter Health

Executive Chef

Modesto, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Chef Certification OR Other: Formal culinary training CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE: SS-Serve Save ... Ability to interpret a variety of data and instructions, furnished in written, oral, diagram, or ...

Sodexo

Executive Chef 1

Ripon, CA

$67K - $87K/yr

Sodexo is seeking a Executive Chef to lead culinary operations for the Bethany Home in Ripon, CA. This hands-on leadership role is responsible for delivering an elevated residential dining experience.

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All JobsA Chef JobsA Chef Jobs in Modesto, CA

A Chef information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$10

$25

$47

How much do a chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for a chef in Modesto, CA is $25.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chef do?

A chef is responsible for planning menus, preparing and cooking food, and overseeing kitchen staff in restaurants or other food service settings. Chefs ensure the quality and presentation of dishes, maintain kitchen hygiene standards, and often manage inventory and food costs. They may also create new recipes and collaborate with other staff to deliver a memorable dining experience. Chefs can specialize in different types of cuisine and work in various environments, from fine dining restaurants to catering companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chef?

To thrive as a Chef, you need strong culinary skills, a deep understanding of food safety, and typically a degree or certification from a culinary school. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are essential. Creativity, leadership, and effective communication set outstanding chefs apart, enabling them to inspire teams and deliver exceptional dining experiences. These skills are vital to maintain kitchen efficiency, uphold safety standards, and consistently produce high-quality dishes in a fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges chefs face when managing a busy kitchen during peak service times?

During peak service hours, chefs often face the challenge of coordinating multiple orders while maintaining high food quality and timely delivery. Managing staff communication, adapting to unexpected issues like equipment malfunction or ingredient shortages, and ensuring food safety standards can add to the pressure. Successful chefs develop strong organizational and leadership skills to keep the team focused and the kitchen running smoothly under stress.

What is the difference between A Chef vs A Cook?

AspectA ChefA Cook
CredentialsFormal culinary training or culinary degree often preferredMay have informal training or on-the-job experience
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, restaurants, hotelsHome kitchens, small restaurants, catering
ResponsibilitiesMenu planning, supervising kitchen staff, quality controlFood preparation, cooking, following recipes
Industry UsageCommonly used in professional culinary settingsUsed in both professional and home cooking contexts

While both A Chef and A Cook work in culinary environments, A Chef typically has formal training, oversees kitchen operations, and manages staff, whereas A Cook focuses on preparing food according to recipes, often with less formal education. The roles overlap in food preparation, but A Chef's responsibilities are broader and more managerial.

Is a chef a high paid job?

The salary of a chef varies based on experience, location, and type of establishment, but many chefs earn moderate to high wages, especially those in executive or specialized roles. Top chefs in high-end restaurants or with advanced certifications can earn significant incomes, while entry-level positions tend to pay less. Overall, being a chef can be a well-paying career for those with skills and experience.

What jobs can I get as a chef?

As a chef, you can work in various roles such as executive chef, sous chef, pastry chef, line cook, or kitchen manager. These positions are available in restaurants, hotels, catering companies, and institutional food service settings, often requiring culinary skills, experience, and sometimes certifications like ServSafe. Career progression can lead to specialized or managerial roles within the culinary industry.

What jobs can you do as a chef?

As a chef, you can work in various roles such as executive chef, sous chef, pastry chef, line cook, or kitchen manager. These positions involve preparing food, managing kitchen staff, and overseeing food quality in restaurants, hotels, catering services, or institutional settings. Skills in culinary techniques, food safety, and kitchen management are essential for these roles.

What type of job is a chef?

A chef is a professional who prepares, cooks, and presents food in restaurants, hotels, or other food service establishments. The role often requires culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and sometimes certification or formal training. Chefs may work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, depending on the establishment's schedule.

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for A Chef jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most A Chef job openings:

A Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various A Chef job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,043 per year, or $26 per hour.

Chef

Cellino Foods

Livermore, CA • On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Flexible schedule
  • Free food & snacks

Benefits/Perks
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
Job Summary
We are seeking a talented Chef to join our team. In this role, you’ll be responsible for creating innovative menus and preparing delicious meals for our customers. The ideal candidate is experienced, creative, and able to delegate tasks to kitchen staff. If you have a passion for creating meals that “wow,” we want to hear from you. 
Responsibilities: 
  • Create menus according to season and customer research
  • Set up the kitchen with necessary tools and equipment
  • Prepare food and present it in an appealing manner
  • Supervise and delegate tasks to other team members
  • Maintain appropriate levels of inventory and restock when necessary
  • Follow all food safety regulations
Qualifications: 
  • Previous experience as a chef or cook
  • Certification from culinary school preferred
  • ServeSafe or Food Handler’s Certification
  • Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques and recipes
  • Ability to remain calm and thrive under pressure
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Strong leadership skills
  • Pay is based on experience