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Assistant Chef Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with ... Helps Executive Chef prepare and cook foods. Coordinates activities of cooks and other food-service ...

Pastry Assistant

Knoxville, TN

$15 - $19/hr

You will report to the Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager. * A career as a Pastry Assistant can lead to opportunities as a line cook, sous chef, or even executive chef within the hospitality industry.

Pastry Assistant

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

You will report to the Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager. * A career as a Pastry Assistant can lead to opportunities as a line cook, sous chef, or even executive chef within the hospitality industry.

Pastry Assistant

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

You will report to the Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager. * A career as a Pastry Assistant can lead to opportunities as a line cook, sous chef, or even executive chef within the hospitality industry.

Pastry Assistant

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

You will report to the Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager. * A career as a Pastry Assistant can lead to opportunities as a line cook, sous chef, or even executive chef within the hospitality industry.

Line Cook

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Plates prepared foods based on chef's guidance * Responsible for the setup, operation, break down, and cleaning of all kitchen equipment * May need to assist with washing dishes, sweeping/mopping ...

Line Cook

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Plates prepared foods based on chef's guidance * Responsible for the setup, operation, break down, and cleaning of all kitchen equipment * May need to assist with washing dishes, sweeping/mopping ...

Plates prepared foods based on chef's guidance * Responsible for the setup, operation, break down, and cleaning of all kitchen equipment * May need to assist with washing dishes, sweeping/mopping ...

Work closely with chefs and banquet staff to coordinate service during events. * Assist with inventory rotation and proper storage of food products. * Monitor product quality and notify supervisors ...

Line Cook

Loudon, TN · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Job title Line Cook Reports to Executive Chef Classification Hourly Full-time, Part-time, Nonexempt ... Maintain Food Handlers or Managers Certificate. * Assist with other duties as needed.

Showing results 41-60

Assistant Chef information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$9

$19

$37

How much do assistant chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant chef in Oak Ridge, TN is $19.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is an assistant chef?

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.

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.

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, plating, and managing kitchen tools, and may need basic culinary skills and knowledge of food safety standards. The role typically requires working in a fast-paced environment and following instructions closely.

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 Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Assistant Chef jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Assistant Chef job openings:

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Compass Group

Maryville, TN • On-site

$19.75/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,088 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

340th of 485 rated business services


Job description

Location: Maryville College

  • We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions.
  • Address: 433 Maryville College, Circle D, Maryville, TN 37804. Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Full time schedule; days and hours may vary. Multiple shifts available. More details upon interview.
  • Requirement: 2-3 years of prior BOH leadership experience required. 
  • Pay Range:  $15.75 per hour to $19.75 per hour.

We Make Applying Easy!  Want to apply to this job via text messaging?  Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1550091

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with Compass Group. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: http://olivia.paradox.ai/moSkg

Application Deadline: applications are accepted ongoing until all openings are filled for this position. If an applicant is declined due to the position being filled, they may still be considered for future opportunities and are always welcome to reapply.

Join our campus team where you are valued and empowered to make a difference. Enjoy competitive wages, benefits, and perks like Instapay through the One @Work app. Our careers are filled with purpose and encourage learning, growth, and meaningful impact. Apply today!

Job Summary


Summary:   Helps Executive Chef prepare and cook foods. Coordinates activities of cooks and other food-service associates. Assumes responsibility for kitchen and food-service associates in the absence of Executive Chef.  
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Cooks and prepares food following approved recipes and production standards. Ensures all deadlines are met based on production orders.
  • Supervises hourly food service associates. Includes interviewing, scheduling, payroll, training, counseling, participating in reviews and recommending disciplinary action, as appropriate.
  • Stores food in designated areas following all corporate, state and federal food safety and sanitation procedures.
  • Ensures proper food handling, presentation, portion control and maintenance of appropriate serving temperatures.
  • Maintains sanitation of equipment, supplies and utensils. Cleans workstation thoroughly before leaving area. Keeps display equipment clean and free of debris during meal service to comply with all sanitation, safety, production and merchandising requirements.
  • Interacts with customers to resolve complaints in a friendly, service-oriented manner. Relays relevant information directly to supervisor.
  • Demonstrates complete understanding of daily menu items and accurately explains them to associates and customers.
  • Keeps up with peak production and service hours.
  • Monitors inventory and deliveries of product and supplies. Tracks product production, consumption and waste. Informs supervisor when supplies or product are low.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

The Benefits

We are always looking for ways to invest in our people both inside and outside of work to help them achieve their full potential. Both full-time and part-time associates are eligible for the following benefits:

  • Opportunities for Training and Development
  • Retirement Plan
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program


In addition, full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Maryland, Washington State, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_ChartwellsHED.pdf

Because this position requires you to perform services in an educational facility, there may be periods when the Company does not require you to perform work (such as winter and summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the Company’s behalf may be unpaid and deemed a temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round, potentially at a different location during break periods.  Business needs may vary from year to year.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law. 
 

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. 

Chartwells Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace. 


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