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Catering Chef Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Aramark

Catering Chef Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

We?re looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer service and food ... Oversee special catering events and may also offer culinary instruction and/or demonstrates ...

Aramark

Catering Chef Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer service and food ... Oversee special catering events and may also offer culinary instruction and/or demonstrates ...

Aramark

Catering Chef Manager

Norfolk, VA

$60K - $70K/yr

We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer service and food ... Oversee special catering events and may also offer culinary instruction and/or demonstrates ...

Aramark

Catering Chef Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer service and food ... Oversee special catering events and may also offer culinary instruction and/or demonstrates ...

Main Event Caterers

Catering Event Sous Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Join our team at Main Event Caterers as a Catering Event Sous Chef! As a vital member of our culinary team, you will have the opportunity to showcase your talent and creativity while delivering mouth ...

NOVA Parks

Catering Captain

Sterling, VA · On-site

$28/hr

Work is performed under the general direction of the Facility Manager and Catering Chef, with some latitude for independent judgment. Due to the service of alcohol, applicants must be at least 21 ...

NOVA Parks

Catering Captain

Sterling, VA · On-site

Work is performed under the general direction of the Facility Manager and Catering Chef, with some latitude for independent judgment. Due to the service of alcohol, applicants must be at least 21 ...

NOVA Parks

Catering Captain

Lorton, VA · On-site

$28/hr

Work is performed under the general direction of the Facility Manager and Catering Chef, with some latitude for independent judgment. Due to the service of alcohol, applicants must be at least 21 ...

NOVA Parks

Catering Captain

Vienna, VA · On-site

$28/hr

Work is performed under the general direction of the Facility Manager and Catering Chef, with some latitude for independent judgment. Due to the service of alcohol, applicants must be at least 21 ...

NOVA Parks

Catering Captain

Lorton, VA

Work is performed under the general direction of the Facility Manager and Catering Chef, with some latitude for independent judgment. Due to the service of alcohol, applicants must be at least 21 ...

NOVA Parks

Catering Captain

Lorton, VA · On-site

$28/hr

Work is performed under the general direction of the Facility Manager and Catering Chef, with some latitude for independent judgment. Due to the service of alcohol, applicants must be at least 21 ...

NOVA Parks

Catering Captain

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$28/hr

Work is performed under the general direction of the Facility Manager and Catering Chef, with some latitude for independent judgment. Due to the service of alcohol, applicants must be at least 21 ...

NOVA Parks

Catering Captain

Vienna, VA · On-site

Work is performed under the general direction of the Facility Manager and Catering Chef, with some latitude for independent judgment. Due to the service of alcohol, applicants must be at least 21 ...

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Catering Chef information

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$14

$25

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How much do catering chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for catering chef in Virginia is $25.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a catering chef do?

Catering chefs prepare food for celebrations, business functions, and other special events. In this role, you may discuss culinary options with the client, oversee all aspects of cooking the food during the event, direct waiters and other staff while they serve guests, and manage costs to ensure the entire service remains within the proposed budget. Catering chefs also oversee food storage and safe handling guidelines to minimize the risk of transmitting illnesses. Catering chefs have a variety of duties and responsibilities during each event, so flexibility and the ability to switch between roles as needed are particularly crucial to this job.

What does a catering chef do?

A Catering Chef is responsible for planning, preparing, and presenting food for events such as weddings, corporate meetings, and parties. They design menus based on client preferences, ensure food safety standards are met, and oversee kitchen staff during food preparation and service. In addition to cooking, Catering Chefs manage inventory, coordinate with event planners, and often handle budgeting for ingredients and supplies. Their role is essential for ensuring that food served at events is both delicious and safely prepared.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a catering chef?

To thrive as a Catering Chef, you need expertise in menu planning, food preparation, culinary techniques, and usually a culinary degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food safety certifications, and inventory management systems is typical for this role. Creativity, attention to detail, time management, and strong leadership abilities are standout soft skills. These qualifications ensure consistent food quality, efficient event execution, and customer satisfaction in a dynamic catering environment.

What are some common challenges a catering chef faces when executing off-site events, and how can these be managed?

Catering Chefs often encounter challenges such as limited kitchen facilities, unpredictable event logistics, and the need for precise timing to ensure food quality and safety. Managing these challenges involves thorough pre-event planning, creating detailed prep lists, and coordinating closely with event staff and vendors. Flexibility, strong organizational skills, and the ability to adapt menus or service styles based on the venue's capabilities are crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Catering Chef vs Restaurant Chef?

AspectCatering Chef
CredentialsCatering chefs typically need culinary certifications or degrees, similar to restaurant chefs.
Work EnvironmentThey work in diverse locations, including event venues, outdoor settings, and kitchens, focusing on large-scale food service.
Employer & IndustryEmployed by catering companies, event planners, or hospitality firms, serving clients for events and functions.
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for menu planning, food preparation, and event catering skills.

While both catering and restaurant chefs require culinary skills and certifications, catering chefs specialize in preparing large quantities of food for events in various locations, whereas restaurant chefs focus on daily service in a fixed restaurant setting. The roles overlap in skills but differ mainly in work environment and scope of service.

More about Catering Chef jobs

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Catering Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Catering Chef job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,017 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Catering Event Chef

Trolley Hospitality Companies

Henrico, VA • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

About Us:***Winner of Richmond 2026 Top Workplaces Award***Groovin' Gourmets is the catering division of Trolley Hospitality Companies, a Richmond-based hospitality group serving the greater Richmond and Hampton Roads regions. We specialize in delivering fresh, chef-crafted meals and seamless service for corporate functions, weddings, and social events of all sizes.Our commitment to quality extends beyond the food--we believe our success starts with our people. Driven by a shared purpose of delivering happiness to our customers, community, and team, we focus on fostering a supportive and positive workplace where everyone's contributions are valued. We hope you will join us!Our Values - The Trolley Way:No excusesDo the right thingCan-do attitudeAlways growingHelp first--be part of the solutionTransparency and honesty-no BSPlease visit our website at www.trolleyhouseva.com to learn more!About you:You thrive in a fast-paced, guest-facing environment.You take pride in delivering food that is as beautiful as it is delicious.Teamwork makes your heart sing--nothing excites you more than working together to pull off a seamless event.You enjoy engaging with guests and creating positive dining experiences.You're energized by the hustle and excitement of catering events. How You Will Make an Impact:Begin each event by efficiently unloading and setting up the kitchen or prep areas, ensuring everything is ready for service.Assist with creating visually appealing and well-organized food and action stations that align with the event plan and venue guidelines.Plate and present dishes with precision and care, maintaining the highest standards of quality and presentation.Step into the spotlight at live action stations (like carving or pasta stations), engaging with guests professionally while delivering exceptional service.Collaborate with the catering team to ensure smooth, efficient service from start to finish.End the event on a high note by breaking down and cleaning the prep areas, leaving the venue spotless and organized.What You Bring to the Table:At least 1 year of culinary experience in a catering, banquet, or similar setting.Strong knowledge of food preparation, presentation techniques, and food safety practices.A team-focused mindset with excellent communication skills.Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds for extended periods.The ability to thrive in diverse environments, including indoor and outdoor event venues.The Good Stuff!$19-21/hrDiscounts at all Trolley House Hospitality companies including catering services, Gourmet Gang delis, and vending items in our warehousePart-time employees who work at least 1,000 hours a year are eligible for 401k matching after the first yearFlexible scheduling-perfect for someone looking for a second job!