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Assistant Chef Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

1891 Kitchen Sous Chef

Portland, OR · On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

What You'll Do Culinary Operations & Food Quality * Assist the Executive Chef in coordinating and supervising all phases of food production for Club restaurants and banquet operations * Support menu ...

1891 Kitchen Sous Chef

Portland, OR

$53K - $71K/yr

What You'll Do Culinary Operations & Food Quality * Assist the Executive Chef in coordinating and supervising all phases of food production for Club restaurants and banquet operations * Support menu ...

1891 Kitchen Sous Chef

Portland, OR · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

What You'll Do Culinary Operations & Food Quality * Assist the Executive Chef in coordinating and supervising all phases of food production for Club restaurants and banquet operations * Support menu ...

Sous Chef University Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

Sous Chef University Portland Salary: 62,000-72,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is ... Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Assist in coordinating and actively participating in the ...

Sous Chef University Portland Salary: 62,000-72,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is ... Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Assist in coordinating and actively participating in the ...

Sous Chef University Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

Sous Chef University Portland Salary: 62,000-72,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is ... Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Assist in coordinating and actively participating in the ...

Executive Chef

Newberg, OR · On-site

$130K/yr

Duties and Responsibilities The Executive Chef is responsible for all culinary activities for the ... * Assist operation managers as requested in areas such as plate presentation, special function ...

Sous Chef University Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

Sous Chef University Portland Salary: 62,000-72,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is ... Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Assist in coordinating and actively participating in the ...

Executive Chef

Newberg, OR · On-site

$130K/yr

Duties and Responsibilities The Executive Chef is responsible for all culinary activities for the ... * Assist operation managers as requested in areas such as plate presentation, special function ...

Sous Chef (8297)

Portland, OR · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

ABOUT THIS POSITION As a Sous Chef for Genuine Foods, you will ensure that students and families ... Complies for food safety and sanitation requirements. * Assist in managing and coaching the team ...

Cook

Vancouver, WA

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Must assist Chef and Sous Chef in teaching team members new and old, proper and safe use of equipment, Chemicals, Knives, Cooking procedures, food storage, food safety, and sanitation. * Must ...

Sous Chef (8297)

Portland, OR · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

ABOUT THIS POSITION As a Sous Chef for Genuine Foods, you will ensure that students and families ... Complies for food safety and sanitation requirements. * Assist in managing and coaching the team ...

Cook

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Must assist Chef and Sous Chef in teaching team members new and old, proper and safe use of equipment, Chemicals, Knives, Cooking procedures, food storage, food safety, and sanitation. * Must ...

Sous Chef

Portland, OR · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Ensures excellence in guest satisfaction through commitment to a "Do Whatever It Takes Attitude" and a hands-on, lead by example management style * Assist the Executive Chef in the management of all ...

Sous Chef

Portland, OR · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Ensures excellence in guest satisfaction through commitment to a "Do Whatever It Takes Attitude" and a hands-on, lead by example management style * Assist the Executive Chef in the management of all ...

Executive Chef | The Allison Inn & Spa

Newberg, OR · On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

Executive Chef | The Allison Inn & Spa The Allison Inn & Spa is Oregon Wine Country's first full ... * Assist operation managers as requested in areas such as plate presentation, special function ...

Executive Chef | The Allison Inn & Spa The Allison Inn & Spa is Oregon Wine Country's first full ... * Assist operation managers as requested in areas such as plate presentation, special function ...

Executive Chef

Portland, OR · On-site

$75K - $104K/yr

Develops standards, processes, and tools to assist in delivering consistent culinary products at ... Qualifications Prior experience as an Executive Chef. Excellent verbal and written communication ...

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Assistant Chef information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$22

$41

How much do assistant chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant chef in Portland, OR is $22.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.70 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Assistant Chef jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Assistant Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Chef job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,945 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

1891 Kitchen Sous Chef

themac

Portland, OR • On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

The Role
Multnomah Athletic Club (MAC) is seeking a skilled and motivated Sous Chef to support the Executive Chef in leading all culinary operations across the Club’s restaurants and banquet environments. This role plays a vital part in ensuring exceptional food quality, menu consistency, cost control, and team leadership while upholding MAC’s high standards for professionalism, safety, and service.
The Sous Chef is a hands-on culinary leader who supports daily kitchen operations, supervises and develops culinary team members, and helps ensure operational excellence across multiple outlets. This position also serves as a key contributor to training, onboarding, and developing culinary talent within a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
 
What You’ll Do
Culinary Operations & Food Quality
  • Assist the Executive Chef in coordinating and supervising all phases of food production for Club restaurants and banquet operations
  • Support menu development, recipe creation, costing, and execution from concept through service
  • Ensure consistency, quality, and presentation standards across all outlets
  • Assist with cooking, expediting, plating, and service support as operationally required
  • Help develop, update, and maintain prep lists, order guides, recipes, and menu documentation
Leadership & Team Development
  • Directly supervise kitchen staff, including oversight of attendance, timekeeping approvals, and performance management
  • Mentor Sous Chefs and line staff, providing guidance in production planning, culinary technique, and recipe execution
  • Facilitate onboarding, training, skills development, and ongoing coaching for culinary team members
  • Participate in interviewing, hiring, training, and performance feedback processes
  • Lead by example, fostering a collaborative, professional, and accountability-driven kitchen culture
Operational Oversight
  • Share responsibility with the Executive Chef for kitchen operations during the Executive Chef’s absence
  • Support cost control efforts, including inventory management, ordering, and waste reduction
  • Maintain regular and predictable attendance while supporting operational coverage needs
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by the Executive Chef or Food & Beverage leadership
Safety, Compliance & Club Standards
  • Ensure compliance with all MAC safety policies and health department regulations
  • Identify hazards, promote safe work practices, and report incidents promptly
  • Model and reinforce MAC’s Code of Conduct, promoting a positive employee and member experience
 
What You’ll Bring
Experience & Education
  • Apprenticeship, culinary degree, or equivalent professional culinary training
  • Minimum of five (5) years of progressive culinary experience, including supervisory responsibility
  • Experience supporting high-volume or multi-outlet operations preferred
Certifications & Technical Skills
  • Valid Food Handler’s card (or ability to obtain within required timeframe)
  • General proficiency with computer applications including email, inventory/order systems, and scheduling tools
Leadership & Professional Skills
  • Strong organizational, planning, and time-management skills
  • Demonstrated ability to train, motivate, and develop culinary staff
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment
Preferred Qualifications
  • ACF Sous Chef certification
  • Experience in banquet, club, hotel, or multi-restaurant operations
 
 
What You'll Gain
 
At Multnomah Athletic Club, we believe in taking care of our team members. We offer a wide range of benefits to ensure your well-being, both inside and outside the club. Here's what's in it for you:
  • Full-time employees: Enjoy medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Facility access: Free access to our exercise room and classes, climbing gym, and pools.
  • Convenience: Free parking and discounted public transportation passes.
  • Retirement: Participate in our 401(k) program with an employer match.
  • Well-being: Access our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free.
  • Perks: Enjoy discounts on club services and meals.
 
Apply today!
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