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Assistant Chef Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Cook III, Woodlake Market

Kohler, WI

$14.25 - $19/hr

Ensure that the ordering checklists and prep lists are adhered and up-to-date by all Cook I's and II's. * Assist Chef with conducting monthly inventory taking, when needed. * Be able to work stations ...

Cook III - Pizza and Pasta, Woodlake Market

Kohler, WI · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Ensure that the ordering checklists and prep lists are adhered and up-to-date by all Cook I's and II's. * Assist Chef with conducting monthly inventory taking, when needed. * Be able to work stations ...

Cook III, Woodlake Market

Kohler, WI · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Ensure that the ordering checklists and prep lists are adhered and up-to-date by all Cook I's and II's. * Assist Chef with conducting monthly inventory taking, when needed. * Be able to work stations ...

Cook III, Woodlake Market

Kohler, WI

$14.25 - $19/hr

Ensure that the ordering checklists and prep lists are adhered and up-to-date by all Cook I's and II's. * Assist Chef with conducting monthly inventory taking, when needed. * Be able to work stations ...

Sous Chef

Hartford, WI · On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

Responsibilities & Duties Monitor daily inventory levels and assist with monthly inventory Daily ... Chef, and event coordinator on upcoming events Assists with pre-shift meetings with front of the ...

Sous Chef

Hartford, WI · On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

Responsibilities & Duties • Monitor daily inventory levels and assist with monthly inventory • ... Chef, Executive Sous Chef, and event coordinator on upcoming events • Assists with pre-shift ...

The right candidate will assist the Executive Chef in making core menu changes four times a year, as well as creating new features every week and over 50 times a year. The Sous Chef will also be ...

Dietary Aide

Altoona, WI · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Service coffee hour and special functions * Assist Chef * Read and arrange diet card tray identification labels in proper order * Stock Shelves * Use, clean, and sanitize assigned areas * Maintain ...

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Assistant Chef information

See Wisconsin salary details

$9

$21

$39

How much do assistant chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant chef in Wisconsin is $21.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.55 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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Assistant Chef jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Assistant Chef job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Chef jobs in WI? For Assistant Chef jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Chef job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,729 per year, or $21 per hour.
Assistant Chef - Union South Kitchen

Assistant Chef - Union South Kitchen

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI • On-site

$22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


University Of Wisconsin-Madison rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.
Job Category: University Staff
Employment Type: Regular
Job Profile: Food Service Supervisor
Job Summary:
The Wisconsin Union is seeking an Assistant Chef to play a crucial role in the daily management and smooth operation of our high-volume Union South production kitchen. Reporting to the Assistant Manager, this position will oversee and develop kitchen staff, execute batch recipes, and ensure we consistently deliver exceptional customer service and high-quality culinary products. You will be instrumental in fostering a productive team environment and upholding our standards for safety and quality. In this role you will:
  • Coordinate and participate in daily food production activities in collaboration with the Assistant Manager to maximize efficiency and ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality product.
  • Support and assist in the implementation of best practices for kitchen organization, safety, efficiency, and established operating procedures.
  • Support our catering and retail/restaurant teams.

This position comes with a pension plan, vacation, sick leave, and other great benefits. If this sounds like a good opportunity for you - please apply!
Work Schedule and Location:
The anticipated schedule for this position is Tuesday through Saturday 10 am to 6 pm. Start and end times may adjust based on business needs.
100% on-site
Union South Kitchen
Physical Demands:
Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. frequently needed
Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Performs routine and non-routine food preparation activities including cook to order and specialty foods
  • Assigns and coordinates the day-to-day activities of food service staff
  • Adheres to federal, state, campus, and local food safety regulations, policies, and procedures
  • Leads and provides exceptional customer service, answers questions, and provides information regarding food preparation, catering, and associated activities
  • Cleans, inspects, and maintains kitchen equipment and work areas
  • Develops and schedules logistics and menus for daily and catering operations

Department:
Wisconsin Union, Dining & Hospitality, Culinary
Compensation:
The expected starting salary is $22.50 / hour
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. For a summary of benefits, please see.
https://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/univstaff.pdf
Required Qualifications:
  • 2 years of kitchen experience with high volume batch cooking
  • 1 year of experience as a leader overseeing kitchen staff and kitchen production

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Culinary degree or relevant training and experience

Certifications:
  • ServSafe Certification Required - ability to produce or obtain within 6 months of hire

How to Apply:
Click the "Apply" button to start the application process.
You will be prompted to complete a work history and upload the following document:
-Resume
Applicants should complete a work history and upload their resume detailing their training and experience relating to the required and preferred qualifications referenced above. The application reviewers will be relying on application materials to determine which qualified applicants will advance in the recruitment process.
Contact Information:
Kathleen Keller, kathleen.keller@wisc.edu, 608-262-9323
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.
Institutional Statement on Diversity:
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.
To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.
Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.

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About University of Wisconsin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Wisconsin, based in Madison, WI, US, functions in the educational industry and is a renowned and respected institution for higher education. Its official website is wisc.edu. Established in 1848, this public research university is recognized globally for its innovative approach to education, research, creativity, and public service. It embodies a strong commitment to academic freedom and academic excellence. As a major contributor to the Wisconsin Idea, it aims to accomplish its mission of generating well-rounded individuals who will contribute substantially to society, the local community, and the global economy.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US

Year founded

2005