ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Best Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Alinea Group

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

The Sous Chef plays a crucial role within the team, showcasing outstanding leadership abilities and ... It has also been named the Best Restaurant in the World by Elite Traveler, the Best Restaurant in ...

Rootstalk

Server

Breckenridge, CO · On-site

$12.14/hr

Recently winning the James Beard Awards' Best Chef in the Mountain Region, Chef Matt brings a wealth of culinary expertise garnered during his fourteen-year tenure in Denver. From serving as the Chef ...

Candela Cucina

Chef

New Bedford, MA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

The Chef plays a critical role in delivering an unforgettable guest experience preparing the best Italian food on the Southcoast! You are responsible for top notch cleanliness and sanitation ...

Radicato Breckenridge

Line Cook

Breckenridge, CO · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Recently honored as the winner for the James Beard Awards' Best Chef in the Mountain Region, Chef Matt brings a wealth of culinary expertise cultivated during his fourteen-year tenure in Denver. From ...

THE SOUTHERN GROWL LLC

Line Cook

Greer, SC · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

The kitchen is led by Best of the Upstate 2022 Best Chef Eli Biggs and co-executive chef Brando Estrada, along with their talented team. The Southern Growl has experienced significant growth over the ...

Atlas Restaurant Group

Sous Chef

Cockeysville, MD · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... best quality, while maintaining high standards. Sous Chefs must ensure that all kitchen equipment is in proper working order. They must thoroughly understand how to use and troubleshoot all ...

New

Compass Group PLC

Chef

Mascot, TN

... best - choose shifts that suit your lifestyle Career growth opportunities within one of the world's largest contract catering organisations Comprehensive training and support to set you up for ...

Candela Cucina

Chef

New Bedford, MA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

The Chef plays a critical role in delivering an unforgettable guest experience preparing the best Italian food on the Southcoast! You are responsible for top notch cleanliness and sanitation ...

A Thyme Savor

Chef

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$20 - $45/hr

... bring the best in catering to the Wilmington area. We are a family owned business that is loaded ... Danielle is the original Chef and creator and started cooking for people out of her own kitchen ...

DIG INN Chefs-In-Training

Sous Chef, Boston

Boston, MA

$54K - $73K/yr

Our Chefs-In-Training look to you for guidance because you invest in their growth, lead during peak service, resolve guest concerns and serve as a vital resource on culinary & systems best practices.

Mandrake Rooftop

Sushi Chef

Columbus, OH · On-site

Mandrake has the opportunity to be the best restaurant in the city. We are looking for a Sushi Chef who enjoys working in a high-energy environment and seeks to elevate their career by building new ...

DIG INN Chefs-In-Training

Sous Chef, Boston

Boston, MA · On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

Our Chefs-In-Training look to you for guidance because you invest in their growth, lead during peak service, resolve guest concerns and serve as a vital resource on culinary & systems best practices.

Mandrake Rooftop

Sushi Chef

Columbus, OH · On-site

Mandrake has the opportunity to be the best restaurant in the city. We are looking for a Sushi Chef who enjoys working in a high-energy environment and seeks to elevate their career by building new ...

DIG INN Chefs-In-Training

Sous Chef, Boston

Boston, MA · On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

Our Chefs-In-Training look to you for guidance because you invest in their growth, lead during peak service, resolve guest concerns and serve as a vital resource on culinary & systems best practices.

What Chef Wants

Delivery Driver

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Louis team. As a Route Manager/Delivery Driver, you will meet face to face with the best chefs in town as you assist in nurturing relationships and WOWing them by delivery the highest quality ...

Rootstalk

Bartender

Breckenridge, CO

$12.14/hr

Recently winning the James Beard Awards' Best Chef in the Mountain Region, Chef Matt brings a wealth of culinary expertise garnered during his fourteen-year tenure in Denver. From serving as the Chef ...

Sunny's Sushi

Sushi Chef

El Paso, TX · On-site

Sushi Chef at Sunny's Sushi Are you a highly skilled and talented Sushi Chef? Do you have a passion ... Sunny's Sushi is the Best Sushi in El Paso, famous for providing a top-notch dining experience. As ...

Sunny's Sushi

Sushi Chef

El Paso, TX · On-site

Sushi Chef at Sunny's Sushi Are you a highly skilled and talented Sushi Chef? Do you have a passion ... Sunny's Sushi is the Best Sushi in El Paso, famous for providing a top-notch dining experience. As ...

Colleton River Club, Inc.

Sous Chef

Bluffton, SC · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Description Sous Chef - Colleton River Club A fantastic opportunity is waiting for you! - Join Our ... Assure and enforce best practices for safety and sanitation in the kitchen to local, state ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBest Chef Jobs

Best Chef information

See salary details

$10

$24

$44

How much do best chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for best chef in the United States is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chef, you need a solid foundation in culinary techniques, food safety regulations, and typically a degree or certification in culinary arts. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food preparation software is often required. Creativity, leadership, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for menu development and team management. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and a positive dining experience for guests.

What is the highest paying type of chef?

Executive chefs, also known as head chefs, typically earn the highest salaries among culinary professionals due to their leadership responsibilities, management skills, and extensive experience. Specialized roles such as pastry chefs or culinary directors in high-end establishments can also command high wages, especially with advanced certifications and a strong reputation.

What is the difference between Best Chef vs Sous Chef?

AspectBest ChefSous Chef
CredentialsFormal culinary training, certifications often preferredSimilar culinary training, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentLeads kitchen operations, creative decision-makingSupports head chef, manages kitchen staff
Industry UsageRecognized as the top culinary professional in a restaurantKey supporting role in restaurant kitchens
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for top culinary professionals or leadership rolesComparing leadership vs supporting culinary roles

The Best Chef is the culinary leader responsible for menu creation, kitchen management, and overall kitchen success. The Sous Chef supports the Best Chef, handling daily operations and supervising staff. While both roles require culinary skills and certifications, the Best Chef holds a higher leadership position, making it the primary focus for those seeking top culinary careers.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the culinary field, highly successful celebrity chefs or restaurateurs can earn $500,000 or more annually through restaurant ownership, endorsements, and media appearances. However, most chefs typically earn less, with top-tier executive chefs or culinary entrepreneurs reaching this level through extensive experience, branding, and business ventures.

What does a Best Chef do?

A Best Chef is an expert culinary professional who leads the kitchen in creating exceptional dishes, developing innovative menus, and ensuring the highest quality of food and presentation. They often manage kitchen staff, oversee food sourcing, and maintain food safety standards. Best Chefs are recognized for their creativity, leadership, and ability to consistently deliver outstanding dining experiences. Their role often includes mentoring junior chefs and staying updated with culinary trends.

What is the highest paid chef?

Executive chefs, especially those working in high-end restaurants or luxury hotels, tend to be the highest paid chefs, with salaries reaching over $100,000 annually. Some top chefs and restaurateurs can earn significantly more through bonuses, endorsements, and business ventures.

What are some common challenges Best Chefs face when managing kitchen teams in high-demand environments?

Best Chefs often encounter challenges such as balancing creative menu development with consistency, ensuring timely communication among kitchen staff, and maintaining high standards under pressure during peak service hours. Managing inventory, minimizing food waste, and adapting to dietary trends also require strong organizational skills. Successful Best Chefs foster a collaborative team environment, providing mentorship and clear direction to ensure smooth kitchen operations and exceptional dining experiences.

What is the highest paying chef job?

The highest paying chef jobs are typically executive chef or head chef positions in high-end restaurants, luxury hotels, or private clubs, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. Specialized roles such as culinary directors or chefs with extensive experience and advanced certifications can earn even higher compensation, especially in major markets or with ownership stakes.
More about Best Chef jobs
What cities are hiring for Best Chef jobs? Cities with the most Best Chef job openings:
What states have the most Best Chef jobs? States with the most job openings for Best Chef jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Best Chef jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Best Chef jobs are:
Best Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Best Chef job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,225 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Sous Chef

Sous Chef

The Alinea Group

Chicago, IL • On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description
Alinea is looking for a full-time Sous Chef to join our team! The Sous Chef plays a crucial role within the team, showcasing outstanding leadership abilities and a deep commitment to delivering exceptional cuisine. For this role, it is important to be proficient in fostering collaboration with kitchen staff to maintain seamless operations and impeccable food standards. A focus on upholding the establishment's reputation and surpassing guest expectations is paramount for the Sous Chef. This is a full time, salaried position, and candidates must be willing to work 60+ hours, 5 days a week. Sous Chefs predominantly works PM shifts, however, open availability is preferred.
A concept founded by Chef Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas, Alinea has been globally praised for its molecular gastronomy techniques and innovative approach to modernist cuisine, pushing boundaries in a multi-sensory dining experience. It is one of only 13 restaurants in the U.S. to earn the coveted Michelin 3-Star rating. It has also been named the Best Restaurant in the World by Elite Traveler, the Best Restaurant in North America by The World's 50 Best Restaurants, and the Best Restaurant in the U.S. by Gourmet and Business Insider. Driven by the notion of doing the unexpected, guests can be assured to leave the dining room feeling inspired.
Responsibilities
Manage daily kitchen operations including, but not limited to:
  • Capacity to instruct and manage each station with accuracy, consistency, and professionalism
  • Oversees daily inventory and ordering for all associates
  • Conducting inspections of all kitchen spaces and personnel to ensure adherence to health regulations
  • Assisting Chef de Cuisine & Executive Sous Chef with staff training and further education of Chef de Parties and Commis Chefs
  • Providing support to the Chef de Cuisine and Executive Sous Chef in organizing staff work schedules.
  • Lead by example in a way that reflects the guidance you desire, setting a tone for a supportive and inclusive culture
  • Work under the guidance of our Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, Executive Sous Chef & other Alinea Group leadership
  • To craft an extensive array of dishes using both contemporary and traditional culinary methods
  • Performs duties on any designated station within the kitchen as directed by management
  • Follows recipes with precision to create elevated cuisine for our guests
  • Adhere to correct payroll and uniform protocols
  • Operate kitchen equipment safely and properly
  • Adheres to recipes and techniques instructed by chefs
  • Keeps the work area tidy during preparation, pre-service, and throughout service
  • Maintains storage areas and vessels with care and thorough attention to detail
  • Collaborates efficiently with team members to achieve the shared objective
  • Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor/manager

Requirements
  • 5 years+ as Chef de Partie and/or 2 years+ as Sous Chef
  • Demonstrate an exceptional dedication to work
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, chef-driven environment
  • Capability to collaborate effectively within a team setting
  • Skill in receiving instructions effectively and adapting priorities promptly and effectively
  • Thinks clearly, quickly, and maintains composure during high pressure situations

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to work on your feet for at least 8 hours
  • Must be able to move, pull or lift at least 35 pounds
  • Must be able to climb stairs multiple times per shift

Benefits
  • Exempt salaried position
  • Major holidays off and paid
  • Medical, vision, dental and life benefits available on the 1st of the month following full-time employment paid by the company 100%
  • Paid time off
  • 401(K) with a company match up to 4% of deferred earnings
  • CTA/Ventra discount available after 1 month of full-time employment
  • Employee Dining Discount, 20% to any Alinea Group restaurant
  • Referral Bonus Program Available

The Alinea Group is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity in gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, age, veteran status, life experiences and ideas. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and strive to provide an inclusive culture that embraces diversity.
Must be eligible to legally work in the United States. We use E-Verify.
Department Culinary Role Sous Chef Locations Alinea Employment type Full-time

Apply