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Associate Chef Jobs in Manchester, CT (NOW HIRING)

Executive Sous Chef - Banquets

Uncasville, CT · On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

This position will closely assist alongside the Executive Chef in many administrative duties ... Associate degree in Culinary Arts or related field * Must possess seven years supervisory ...

This position assists the Chef with the day-to-day operations of the food department. Primary ... Associates' Degree or a two year Culinary Degree * Five years of culinary experience in a high ...

Sous Chef

Bloomfield, CT · On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

... Chef! We are seeking a driven individual who is eager to learn, contribute, and grow within a fast ... Associate's degree (AA) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or six months to ...

Sous Chef

Bloomfield, CT · On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

... Chef! We are seeking a driven individual who is eager to learn, contribute, and grow within a ... Associate's degree (AA) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or six months to ...

This position assists the Chef with the day-to-day operations of the food department. Primary ... Associates' Degree or a two year Culinary Degree * Five years of culinary experience in a high ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Chef information

See Manchester, CT salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do associate chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate chef in Manchester, CT is $15.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $17.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate chef?

Associate Chefs are culinary professionals who assist head chefs or executive chefs in preparing meals, managing kitchen staff, and ensuring food quality and safety standards are met. They often handle tasks such as ingredient preparation, cooking, plating dishes, and supervising junior kitchen staff. Associate Chefs play a key role in maintaining efficient kitchen operations and may also help with menu planning and inventory management. This role is ideal for those looking to advance their culinary careers and gain valuable hands-on experience.

What are the primary ways associate chefs collaborate with other kitchen staff during service?

As an Associate Chef, you’ll work closely with the Executive and Sous Chefs to ensure that dishes are prepared efficiently and to the restaurant’s standards. You’ll often coordinate with line cooks, prep staff, and servers to manage the flow of orders, address any issues with ingredients or timing, and maintain a smooth service. Strong communication skills and teamwork are essential, as you may need to step in to help with plating, quality control, or training new kitchen team members. This collaborative environment is fast-paced but rewarding, offering opportunities to learn from more experienced chefs and contribute to a cohesive team.

What is the difference between Associate Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectAssociate ChefLine Cook
Credentials Culinary degree or equivalent experience Often no formal degree, on-the-job training
Work Environment Kitchen, often with supervisory duties Kitchen, focused on specific station
Employer Usage Restaurants, hotels, catering services Restaurants, food service establishments
Common Search Intent Roles with some responsibility, leadership Entry-level, station-specific tasks

The main difference between an Associate Chef and a Line Cook is that an Associate Chef typically has more culinary training and may take on supervisory or assistant managerial roles, whereas a Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes at a specific station with less responsibility. Both roles are essential in professional kitchens, but the Associate Chef often has broader responsibilities and a higher level of experience.

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

To thrive as an Associate Chef, you need a solid background in culinary techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations, often gained through a culinary degree or relevant kitchen experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and certifications such as ServSafe are typically required. Strong teamwork, multitasking, and communication skills help you excel in high-pressure environments and support the head chef effectively. These competencies ensure consistent food quality, smooth kitchen workflow, and a positive dining experience for guests.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Manchester, CT? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Manchester, CT are:
What cities near Manchester, CT are hiring for Associate Chef jobs? Cities near Manchester, CT with the most Associate Chef job openings:

EXECUTIVE CHEF - K-12 SCHOOLS

Chartwells K12

South Windsor, CT • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Chartwells School Dining Services rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 230 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 68 rated caterers


Job description

Salary:  $60000 - $65000

Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,500 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.

Job Summary

Are you an innovative culinary professional with boundless energy and a passion for excellence? Join us as the Executive Chef for our premiere K12 school district located in South Windsor, CT.  Reporting to the Director, successful candidate will lead kitchen operations with creativity and precision while encouraging a safe and sanitary work environment. This role presents an exciting opportunity for a dynamic, entrepreneurial culinary leader to make a significant impact.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develops regular and specialty menus in line with K12 standards, ensuring adherence to portioning and presentation guidelines. 
  • Trains kitchen staff in food preparation, equipment operation, and safety protocols, promoting a culture of excellence.
  • Establishes and maintains thorough cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment and work areas.
  • Handles inventory of food and supplies, optimizing utilization while ensuring vital products are readily available. 
  • Ensures compliance with health and sanitation regulations through meticulous adherence to department procedures and participation in audits.
  • Actively participates in departmental meetings, staff development initiatives, and professional programs to stay abreast of industry trends.
  • Performs other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of a dining service operation.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Associate’s degree desired or equivalent experience in culinary arts.
  • Two plus years of culinary/kitchen management experience, (with catering experience preferred).
  • Proven success in complex foodservice operations, with a solid base in institutional and batch cooking.
  • Hands-on chef experience is critical, accompanied by solid knowledge of food trends, emphasizing quality, production, sanitation, cost control, and presentation.
  • Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office suite and email systems.
  • Willingness to actively engage in client satisfaction programs and activities.
  • ServSafe certification is highly desirable, highlighting a commitment to food safety.


 

Apply to Chartwells Schools today!

Chartwells Schools is a member of Compass Group USA

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

 

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. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Chartwells K-12 maintains a drug-free workplace.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Associates at Chartwells K-12 are offered many fantastic benefits.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

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 Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wpcontent/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_ChartwellsK12.pdf

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

Req ID:  1558499

Chartwells K12 

JENNIFER HILL

 [[req_classification]] 


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About Chartwells School DIning Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Oak Park, MI, US