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African Chef Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Nashville, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

... of African American Music, tours at The Opry and The Ryman Auditorium, and more) * Up to 25 ... Position reports to the Executive Chef and Director and/or Executive Sous Chef. Specific Job Duties:

Cook

Nashville, TN

$13.50 - $18/hr

... of African American Music, tours at The Opry and The Ryman Auditorium, and more) * Up to 25 ... Position reports to the Executive Chef and Director and/or Executive Sous Chef. Specific Job Duties:

Cook

Nashville, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

... of African American Music, tours at The Opry and The Ryman Auditorium, and more) * Up to 25 ... Position reports to the Executive Chef and Director and/or Executive Sous Chef. Specific Job Duties:

African Chef information

What is an African chef?

African Chefs are culinary professionals who specialize in preparing, cooking, and presenting traditional and contemporary dishes from various African cuisines. They have deep knowledge of the diverse ingredients, techniques, and cultural traditions that define African food. African Chefs may work in restaurants, hotels, catering companies, or run their own businesses, and often play a role in introducing authentic African flavors to a broader audience. Their expertise includes not only cooking but also menu development, food presentation, and sometimes teaching others about African culinary heritage.

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

To thrive as an African Chef, you need deep knowledge of traditional African cuisines, strong culinary techniques, and often a formal culinary education or relevant experience. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications is typically required. Creativity, cultural sensitivity, and excellent teamwork skills set outstanding chefs apart in this role. These skills ensure authentic, high-quality dishes are prepared efficiently while honoring cultural traditions and maintaining a collaborative kitchen environment.

What are some common challenges African chefs face when introducing traditional dishes in international kitchens?

African Chefs often encounter challenges such as sourcing authentic ingredients, adapting traditional recipes for broader palates, and educating team members about unique cooking techniques. Additionally, they may need to balance preserving cultural authenticity with meeting dietary restrictions and local food safety standards. Collaboration with suppliers and open communication with kitchen staff are key to overcoming these obstacles and successfully showcasing African cuisine abroad.

What is the difference between African Chef vs Sous Chef?

AspectAfrican ChefSous Chef
CredentialsCooking certifications, culinary training, African cuisine expertiseProfessional culinary training, often with specialization in specific cuisines
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, hotels, catering services focusing on African dishesKitchen leadership, assisting head chef, overseeing kitchen operations
Industry UsageCommon in African restaurants and culinary establishmentsUniversal in professional kitchens worldwide

The African Chef specializes in preparing traditional and contemporary African dishes, often requiring specific culinary skills and knowledge of African ingredients. The Sous Chef, on the other hand, is a senior kitchen role responsible for supporting the head chef, managing kitchen staff, and ensuring smooth operations. While both roles require culinary expertise, the African Chef focuses on cuisine specialization, whereas the Sous Chef emphasizes kitchen management and leadership.

What job categories do people searching African Chef jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for African Chef jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for African Chef jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most African Chef job openings:

$13.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Description

FLSA Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has an opening for a full-time non-exempt Cook in the Culinary Department.

Company Overview:  Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has been called the "Smithsonian of country music," celebrated for its broad cultural impact, educational mission, and unrivaled collection of historically important artifacts. Chartered by the state of Tennessee in 1964, the Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that documents and interprets the history of country music. The Museum collects objects and archival materials that illustrate the evolving history and traditions of country music and provides diverse learning opportunities through educational programs, publications, and exhibitions. 

First opened in 1967 on Nashville's Music Row, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum launched its current downtown location in 2001. In 2014, the Museum unveiled a $100 million expansion that doubled its footprint. The Museum now encompasses 350,000 square feet of exhibition galleries, archival storage, retail stores, and event space. The Museum owns Hatch Show Print, a letterpress print shop opened in 1879, and it operates Historic RCA Studio B, where Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, and many others recorded. In addition, the Museum offers the Taylor Swift Education Center for students, teachers, and families, and dedicated performance spaces in the CMA Theater and Ford Theater, both of which regularly host nationally recognized live music and cultural events.

In 2024, the Museum was awarded the prestigious National Medal of Arts by President Joe Biden. The medal is the highest award given to artists and arts institutions by the United States government. The White House Citation, which accompanied the medal, recognized the Museum's work, which "preserves history, honors giants of the genre, and inspires future generations to write their own songs about the American story."

What We Offer for Full-Time Hourly Staff: 

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance Options
  • Competitive Pay
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Days
  • Paid Floating Holidays (2)
  • Time and a Half Holiday Pay
  • 401(K) with Up to 3% Employer Match
  • Employee Assistance Program (Free Counseling and Legal Services)
  • Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness  
  • FREE 24/7 Downtown Parking and Transit Benefits
  • Continuing Professional Offerings
  • Complimentary Museum Admission (For Yourself, Family, and Friends)
  • Reciprocal Partnerships with Local Venues (The Nashville Zoo, Dollywood Theme & Water Parks, National Museum of African American Music, tours at The Opry and The Ryman Auditorium, and more) 
  • Up to 25% Discount in Retail Stores and Onsite Restaurant Venues
  • Opportunities to Attend Exhibit Openings, Concerts and Special Events
  • Employee Engagement Activities and Opportunities
  • FSA and Dependent Care Options 
  • Volunteering and Community Engagement Opportunities

Position Overview: The Cook is responsible for the daily preparation of food items in the pantry, fry, pastry, appetizer and/or entree stations or other areas of the kitchen.

We are looking for talented cooks to contribute top tier performances in the food and beverage arena. Our operations are fast paced, high quality and customer service focused. We are dedicated to hiring outstanding individuals who share our passion for serving customers and preparing quality food and beverages. The ideal cook is motivated, results oriented and committed to providing outstanding customer service every day. Position reports to the Executive Chef and Director and/or Executive Sous Chef.


Specific Job Duties:

  • Sets up station according to restaurant/catering guidelines.
  • Prepares all food items as directed in a sanitary and timely manner.
  • Follows recipes, portion controls, and presentation specifications as set forth.
  • Restocks all items as needed throughout shift.
  • Cleans and maintains station in practicing good safety, sanitation, organizational skills.
  • Has understanding and knowledge to properly use and maintain all equipment in station.
  • Assists with the cleaning, sanitation, and organization of kitchen, walk-in coolers, and all storage areas.
  • Performs additional responsibilities, although not detailed, as requested by the Chef, Sous Chef or Supervisor. 

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Prior cook or line cook experience in a food venue.

Key Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills & Abilities):

  • Commitment to quality service as well as food and beverage knowledge. Basic understanding of professional cooking and knife handling skills
  • Understanding and knowledge of safety, sanitation and food handling procedures.
  • Professional communications skills are required.
  • Ability to take direction.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure.
  • Must have problem solving abilities, be self-motivated, and organized.
  • Person must possess a can-do attitude, excellent communication skills, a sense of humor, patience, tact, and a willingness to go the extra mile to ensure success.
  • Must be willing and available to work flexible/non-standard hours including weekends, evenings and holidays.
  • Maintain confidentiality of client information.

Notes to Applicant:

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is an equal opportunity employer. We respect the varied attributes, characteristics, and perspectives that make each person unique. The museum promotes an environment of respect, communication, and understanding, while actively providing opportunities for all employees of all backgrounds the skills, experience, and information necessary to succeed. The museum does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), national origin, political affiliation, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information or characteristics, age, membership in an employee organization, military or veteran status, or other non-merit factor. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum does not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. 

We are a drug-free workplace and an equal opportunity employer that welcomes all qualified candidates to apply for open positions. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for its staff and visitors. All offers of employment are subject to and contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and employment verification, including federally mandated E-verify processes, as required for position.


Due to the high volume of applications received for this position, hiring managers will only contact candidates they are interested in scheduling for an interview. Please refrain from calling to inquire about the status of your application. 

Please upload a resume and cover letter when applying for the position.

Applications are only accepted online on our career page: https://www.countrymusichalloffame.org/careers