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Assistant Chef Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Executive Chef

Rogers, AR · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

The Senior Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager or Chef De Cuisine leads a culinary team managing daily restaurant culinary and food service operations to ensure high operating standards and reports directly ...

The Senior Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager or Chef De Cuisine leads a culinary team managing daily restaurant culinary and food service operations to ensure high operating standards and reports directly ...

Assistant Executive Chef

Rogers, AR

$67K - $92K/yr

The Senior Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager or Chef De Cuisine leads a culinary team managing daily restaurant culinary and food service operations to ensure high operating standards and reports directly ...

Sous Chef

Rogers, AR

$46K - $63K/yr

Sous Chefs may assist the Executive Chef and Regional Culinary Director in the design of food offerings and in the planning, inventory, and management of supplies. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Key Tasks ...

Sous Chef

Rogers, AR

$46K - $63K/yr

Sous Chefs may assist the Executive Chef and Regional Culinary Director in the design of food offerings and in the planning, inventory, and management of supplies. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Key Tasks ...

$14/hr

Chef assistants/sous chefs provide crucial support to the Chef Instructor. Applicants need to be competent in the kitchen and be willing to lead children participating in culinary consumer based ...

$14/hr

Chef assistants/sous chefs provide crucial support to the Chef Instructor. Applicants need to be competent in the kitchen and be willing to lead children participating in culinary consumer based ...

Floating Sous Chef

Fayetteville, AR · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Rather than being assigned to a single house, the Field Sous Chef rotates across every house in the campus portfolio - stepping in to cover chef absences, support high-volume service, assist with ...

Sous Chef

Fayetteville, AR · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Sous Chefs are responsible for supporting the Head Chef in food preparation, management of ... Maintain a professional and positive attitude with coworkers and customers. * Assist in planning ...

Sous Chef

Fayetteville, AR · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Sous Chefs are responsible for supporting the Head Chef in food preparation, management of ... Maintain a professional and positive attitude with coworkers and customers. * Assist in planning ...

Sushi Chef Now Offering a Signing Bonus for Sushi Chefs & Sushi Rollers! We are currently seeking ... Have a positive energy, be ready to assist fellow support staff and work as a team player * Must be ...

Sushi Chef Now Offering a Signing Bonus for Sushi Chefs & Sushi Rollers! We are currently seeking ... Have a positive energy, be ready to assist fellow support staff and work as a team player * Must be ...

Sushi Chef Now Offering a Signing Bonus for Sushi Chefs & Sushi Rollers! We are currently seeking ... Have a positive energy, be ready to assist fellow support staff and work as a team player * Must be ...

Sushi Chef

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

As the Sushi Chef, you will be responsible for creating high-quality sushi dishes that not only ... Ensure all food handling and preparation meets health and safety standards. * Assist in catering ...

As the Sushi Chef, you will be responsible for creating high-quality sushi dishes that not only ... Ensure all food handling and preparation meets health and safety standards. * Assist in catering ...

As the Sushi Chef, you will be responsible for creating high-quality sushi dishes that not only ... Ensure all food handling and preparation meets health and safety standards. * Assist in catering ...

Sushi Chef Now Offering a Signing Bonus for Sushi Chefs & Sushi Rollers! We are currently seeking ... Have a positive energy, be ready to assist fellow support staff and work as a team player * Must be ...

Sushi Chef Now Offering a Signing Bonus for Sushi Chefs & Sushi Rollers! We are currently seeking ... Have a positive energy, be ready to assist fellow support staff and work as a team player * Must be ...

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Assistant Chef information

See Arkansas salary details

$7

$17

$32

How much do assistant chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant chef in Arkansas is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are assistant chefs called?

Assistant chefs are commonly referred to as sous chefs or kitchen assistants. They support head chefs by preparing ingredients, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and following recipes, often requiring culinary training or certifications. These roles are essential for smooth kitchen operations and may involve working in fast-paced environments with specific safety standards.

How does an Assistant Chef typically collaborate with the Head Chef and other kitchen staff during service?

As an Assistant Chef, you play a vital role in supporting the Head Chef by preparing ingredients, ensuring stations are well-stocked, and executing dishes according to established recipes and quality standards. Collaboration is constant—clear communication with the Head Chef and other cooks helps maintain a smooth workflow, especially during busy service hours. You may also assist in training junior staff and step in to manage specific sections of the kitchen when needed, making adaptability and teamwork essential traits for success in this role.

What Does a Chef Assistant Do?

A chef assistant provides support for the head chef of a restaurant, bakery, catering business, or cafeteria. As a chef assistant, your job duties include managing inventory, ensuring that the kitchen meets food safety and cleanliness standards, and helping kitchen staff with food preparation. The qualifications for a career as a chef assistant vary by employer, but typically include training from a culinary school, proven cooking skills, and experience working in a kitchen. You need strong teamwork abilities and a willingness to work a flexible schedule.

What are Assistant Chefs?

Assistant Chefs, also known as commis chefs or junior chefs, support the head chef and sous chef in a professional kitchen. Their responsibilities typically include preparing ingredients, cooking basic dishes, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and helping with inventory management. They play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth workflow and may also assist in plating dishes and learning advanced culinary techniques. This position is often an entry-level role for those pursuing a culinary career, offering hands-on experience and opportunities for advancement.

Is 35 too late to become a chef?

Assistant chefs can start their culinary careers at any age, including 35, as many chefs begin training or apprenticeships later in life. Success depends on dedication, gaining relevant skills, and obtaining certifications such as culinary diplomas or food safety licenses. Age is not a barrier to entering the culinary field or advancing as a chef.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Chef, you need a solid understanding of culinary techniques, food safety standards, and experience in a kitchen environment, often supported by a culinary certificate or diploma. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food hygiene certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills that help in supporting the head chef and ensuring smooth kitchen operations. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining food quality, efficiency, and safety in a fast-paced culinary setting.

Is assistant chef a stressful job?

Assistant chefs often work in fast-paced kitchen environments that can be physically demanding and require long hours, especially during busy service times. The role involves multitasking, attention to detail, and teamwork, which can contribute to stress levels, but experience and good time management can help manage these pressures.

What does an assistant chef do?

An assistant chef supports the head chef by preparing ingredients, cooking dishes, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. They often handle tasks such as chopping, measuring, and organizing supplies, and may assist with plating and presentation. This role requires good communication skills and knowledge of food safety standards.

What is the lowest position as a chef?

The lowest position in a professional kitchen is typically that of a line cook or prep cook, responsible for basic food preparation and assisting higher-level chefs. Entry-level roles often require basic culinary skills and may involve working under supervision in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Assistant Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectAssistant ChefLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training, certifications varyBasic culinary skills, often no formal certification required
Work EnvironmentAssists head chef, supports kitchen operationsPrepares specific dishes on the line during service
Employer & Industry UsageHotels, restaurants, catering servicesRestaurants, hotels, catering
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Assistant Chef typically supports the head chef and handles a variety of kitchen tasks, often with some formal training. Line Cooks focus on preparing specific dishes during service, usually with less supervision. Both roles are essential in culinary operations, but Assistant Chefs often have broader responsibilities and may oversee Line Cooks.

More about Assistant Chef jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Arkansas? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Arkansas are:
What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Assistant Chef jobs? Cities in Arkansas with the most Assistant Chef job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Chef jobs in AR? For Assistant Chef jobs in AR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Chef job openings in Arkansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,824 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Bugler Specialty Sous Chef - Full Time (Swing Shift)

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort

Hot Springs, AR • On-site

$40K - $54K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Thank you for your interest in becoming part of the Oaklawn Team. We have an extraordinary legacy. We are a family with strong core values, providing a new level of excitement for our guests and Team Members as we aspire to be Arkansas' Employer of Choice.
The Specialty Sous Chef works alongside Chef De Cuisine to manage daily kitchen activities in a fine dining setting, including overseeing staff, training Staff ,aiding with menu preparation, ensuring food quality and freshness, and monitoring ordering and stocking. Provides meal quality and consistency by following designated recipes.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead team in accordance with Oaklawn policies and document any staff issues that do not align with policies (i.e. attendance, behavior, and attitude)
  • Assist in department inventory procedures with accountability for checking incoming orders and deliveries, communicating effectively with vendors, and notifying appropriate person if there are any delivery issues or inconsistencies
  • Conduct daily shift line checks of kitchen to ensure execution of prep work is accurate, complete, and in accordance with food safety and sanitation regulations
  • Responsible for proper and accurate labeling with date on all food containers to monitor freshness of all food and ensure first-in, first-out organization in walk-ins and low-boys in accordance with food safety and
  • Sanitation regulations
  • Ensure preparation of all meals in compliance with standardized recipes and portion volume, assisting team members during service times.
  • Ensure cleanliness and maintenance of all work areas, utensils, and equipment, communicating any repairs needed
  • Work with team to ensure proper order pacing and timely execution of food by kitchen teams so guest receives food at same time and per service standards
  • Assist Chef in preparing daily prep list and oversee execution by kitchen teams
  • Create specials for the kitchen, working with Executive Chef and/or team on flavor profile, food cost, and presentation.
  • Provide direction, coaching, and leadership for all cooks and kitchen team members on a daily basis including training, safety and sanitation, and company policies and procedures
  • Develops and produces menu items as listed in each restaurant. Follows all prep lists and ensure kitchens are stocked and ready for service.
  • Responsible for maintaining of cost control methods and procedures by monitoring consistent pars and inventory.
  • Demonstrate, train, assess, and provide feedback to new hires on proper preparation of food items
  • Educate and serve as point person for team on menu knowledge, allergens, specials, and promotions
  • Works with Chef to proactively communicate staffing needs and implement development plans for current team members
  • Interview and hire, in collaboration with Executive Chef, all kitchen positions to maintain appropriate staffing par levels
  • Responsible for establishing and communicating goals and opportunities to Executive Chef, Director of Food and Beverage and the VP of Hospitality on a regular basis
  • Effectively manage department budgets, in collaboration with Executive Chef, including forecasting
  • Organize and lead team meetings to communicate updates, motivate team, and provide a constructive forum for feedback and concerns
  • Create and post weekly schedule two weeks in advance, considering restaurant needs and PTO requests and ensuring staffing coverage when there are call-outs and for mandatory breaks during shift
  • Promote positive public/team member relations at all times.
  • Maintains a clean, safe, hazard-free work environment within area of responsibility.
  • Communicate with members of management and line team members daily regarding job requirements, expectations and outstanding issues.
  • Creates and maintains relationships with sponsors and vendors
  • Exhibits behavioral styles that convey confidence and earns respect from others; makes good first impression and represents the company in alignment with its values and standards
  • Evaluates and adapts the organizational units, jobs and processes to best fit business needs and/or support the goals of the business
  • Follows Purchasing/PO policies and procedures
  • Maintains an attitude & philosophy consistent with the company Core Values and Standards of Behavior with internal & external guests
  • Regular Punctual Attendance
  • Ability to work required overtime
  • Superior attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to meet strict deadlines
  • Flexible to work all shifts including holidays, nights, weekends
  • Must be a team player and maintain a professional, positive attitude and lead by example
  • Flexible and adaptable to work in changing environment
  • Excellent Communication skills both oral and written
  • Must have the ability to interact with guests, staff and colleagues and resolve problems and conflicts in a diplomatic and tactful manner.
  • Strong problem solving, organization and time management skills
  • Ability to work under pressure and deal with stressful situations during busy periods
  • Ability to resolve problems/conflicts in a diplomatic and tactful manner
  • Ability to adjust quickly to changing conditions
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
  • Demonstrated history of culinary excellence
  • 4+ years culinary experience in multiple venues, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 3+ years previous supervisory experience in a fine dining environment required.
  • Strong knowledge of back of the house operations including foods, beverages, staff supervision, inventory, and food safety
  • Must have 2 years' experience cooking steaks in a fine dining environment, demonstrated knowledge of cuts of meats
  • Must have 2 years' experience sautée cooking in a fine dining environment
  • ServSafe certified

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This job may or may not have supervisory responsibilities.
  • Manages work procedures and expedites workflow.
  • Provides coaching and counseling to team members.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain an Arkansas Racing License.
  • Must successfully complete R.S.A.
  • ServSafe certified.

OAKLAWN HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
It is Oaklawn's intent to provide a drug-free, healthy, safe and secure environment for our Team Members. All applicants must complete a pre-employment drug screen and background check.