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Assistant Chef Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Prepare and plate food according to kitchen specifications * Assist Executive Chef with kitchen operations with a goal of increasing revenue and profit * Supervise and coordinate all food preparation ...

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$56K - $76K/yr

... assist teammates in the kitchen as needed, including handling duties of other stations (i.e ... restaurant and chef experience preferred -Culinary and/or college degree recommended with ...

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$56K - $76K/yr

... assist teammates in the kitchen as needed, including handling duties of other stations (i.e ... restaurant and chef experience preferred -Culinary and/or college degree recommended with ...

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

Haymarket, VA

$49K - $66K/yr

... Chef, you are responsible for supporting the daily operations of the kitchen ... You will oversee and assist the line cooks and kitchen staff, ensuring consistent quality in food ...

Sous Chef

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Prepare and plate food according to kitchen specifications * Assist Executive Chef with kitchen operations with a goal of increasing revenue and profit * Supervise and coordinate all food preparation ...

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

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

Job Summary As a Sous Chef, you are responsible for supporting the daily operations of the kitchen ... You will oversee and assist the line cooks and kitchen staff, ensuring consistent quality in food ...

Sous Chef

Haymarket, VA

$46K - $62K/yr

Job Summary As a Sous Chef, you are responsible for supporting the daily operations of the kitchen ... You will oversee and assist the line cooks and kitchen staff, ensuring consistent quality in food ...

Reporting to the Executive Chef, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not ... Provide training and development opportunities for new and existing colleagues * Assist in goal ...

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$68K - $80K/yr

Reporting to the Executive Chef, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not ... Provide training and development opportunities for new and existing colleagues * Assist in goal ...

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Responsibilities * Assist the Executive Chef in the daily management of kitchen operations. * Lead and supervise service while maintaining Michelin-level standards of execution and consistency.

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$65K - $75K/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

Ashburn, VA

$51K - $69K/yr

... Chef, you are responsible for supporting the daily operations of the kitchen ... You will oversee and assist the line cooks and kitchen staff, ensuring consistent quality in food ...

Sous Chef

Vienna, VA

$66K - $70K/yr

Oversee kitchen opening and closing procedures, as well as assigned side duties, in alignment with directives from the Executive Chef. * Assist in training, supervising, and mentoring kitchen staff ...

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Assistant Chef information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$10

$21

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How much do assistant chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant chef in Springfield, VA is $21.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $23.37 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 Springfield, VA? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Assistant Chef jobs? Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Assistant Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Chef job openings in Springfield, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,253 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Sous Chef

Della J's

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 hours ago


Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
 
Job Summary
We are seeking a talented Sous Chef to join our team. In this role, you will work closely with the Executive Chef to create innovative menus and prepare delicious meals. The ideal candidate is experienced, creative, and a strong leader. If you have a passion for creating meals that “wow,” we want to hear from you. 


Responsibilities: 
  • Create innovative menus according to the seasonal availability of ingredients and customer expectations
  • Prepare and plate food according to kitchen specifications
  • Assist Executive Chef with kitchen operations with a goal of increasing revenue and profit
  • Supervise and coordinate all food preparation and presentation
  • Provide training and leadership for kitchen staff
  • Maintain appropriate levels of inventory and negotiate with vendors to get high-quality products at the best price
  • Follow all food safety rules and regulations

Qualifications
  • High school diploma/GED
  • Extensive previous culinary experience
  • Certification from culinary school preferred
  • ServeSafe or Food Handler’s Certification
  • Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques and recipes
  • Ability to remain calm and thrive under pressure
  • Excellent management and leadership skills