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Certified Master Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Executive Sous Chef

Nashville, TN · On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

Mentorship from an Executive Chef with more than 30 years of experience working alongside Michelin-level chefs and Certified Master Chefs in both restaurant and luxury resort environments. A highly ...

New

Achievement of Certified Executive Sous Chef (CEC) or Certified Master Chef (CMC) is desired, but not required * Minimum 3 to 5 years progressive experience in hospitality, multi-unit, medium volume ...

Cook

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Leading this vision is German Certified Master Chef Andreas Roller , whose career spans international luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants and premier catering venues. The Cook is responsible ...

Executive Sous Chef

Nashville, TN · On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

Mentorship from an Executive Chef with more than 30 years of experience working alongside Michelin-level chefs and Certified Master Chefs in both restaurant and luxury resort environments. A highly ...

Executive Chef

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

... certified. You could also showcase your skills in our exciting Aramark Culinary Excellence (ACE) competition, where top chefs battle it out preparing four-course menus for ACF Master Chefs. At ...

Executive Chef

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

... certified. You could also showcase your skills in our exciting Aramark Culinary Excellence (ACE) competition, where top chefs battle it out preparing four-course menus for ACF Master Chefs. At ...

... certified. You could also showcase your skills in our exciting Aramark Culinary Excellence (ACE) competition, where top chefs battle it out preparing four-course menus for ACF Master Chefs. At ...

... Master Chef Janitorial, cleaner, floor cleaning, warehouse cleaning Carpenter, renovation, remolding, new construction, windows, finisher Delivery drivers Milright Inventory Control Certified ...

Position Purpose • Under the direct supervision of the Executive Director/Master Chef Culinary ... Safety, Food Safety Certification or equivalent. • Strong organizational skills. IV. Other ...

Position Purpose • Under the direct supervision of the Executive Director/Master Chef Culinary ... Safety, Food Safety Certification or equivalent. • Strong organizational skills. IV. Other ...

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Certified Master Chef information

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How much do certified master chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified master chef in the United States is $54.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50.96 and $57.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of a Master Chef?

The salary of a Certified Master Chef varies based on experience, location, and employer, but it typically ranges from $50,000 to over $100,000 annually. Master Chefs with advanced skills and certifications often earn higher salaries, especially in high-end restaurants or culinary institutions.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for a Certified Master Chef?

Certified Master Chefs often have access to a range of career advancement opportunities, including executive chef, culinary director, or corporate chef roles in high-end restaurants, hotels, resorts, or culinary institutions. With their prestigious certification, they may also pursue opportunities in culinary education, consulting, or food and beverage management. Many Certified Master Chefs leverage their expertise to develop signature restaurants, write cookbooks, or appear as guest speakers at industry events. Advancement is often driven by continued excellence, participation in industry competitions, and the ability to lead and innovate within the culinary field.

What does it mean to be a certified Master Chef?

A certified Master Chef is a professional chef who has achieved a high level of culinary expertise through rigorous training, experience, and passing advanced certification exams. This designation often signifies mastery in cooking techniques, leadership in the kitchen, and recognition by reputable culinary organizations. Certification programs may require practical skills assessments, knowledge tests, and ongoing education.

How much does a certified Master Chef make?

A Certified Master Chef typically earns between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employment setting. They often work in high-end restaurants, hotels, or culinary institutions and may hold leadership roles that influence salary levels.

What is a Certified Master Chef?

A Certified Master Chef (CMC) is the highest and most prestigious level of culinary certification in the U.S., awarded by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). CMCs demonstrate exceptional skills in cooking techniques, food presentation, and kitchen management. Earning this title requires passing a rigorous eight-day exam that tests knowledge across multiple cuisines and disciplines. CMCs often work as executive chefs, culinary educators, or consultants, shaping the future of the industry.

Is ACF certification worth it?

For a Certified Master Chef, obtaining ACF certification can enhance credibility, demonstrate advanced culinary skills, and improve job prospects in high-end kitchens or culinary leadership roles. It also provides recognition from a respected professional organization and may require passing rigorous exams and demonstrating extensive experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Certified Master Chef position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified Master Chef, you need advanced culinary expertise, extensive experience in food preparation and kitchen management, and usually a formal credential such as the Certified Master Chef (CMC) certification from the American Culinary Federation. Mastery of specialized culinary techniques, menu planning software, and compliance with food safety systems is essential. Leadership, creativity, and effective communication are key soft skills that distinguish top professionals in this role. These competencies ensure the consistent delivery of exceptional cuisine, efficient kitchen operations, and the ability to innovate in a demanding culinary environment.

More about Certified Master Chef jobs
What cities are hiring for Certified Master Chef jobs? Cities with the most Certified Master Chef job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Certified Master Chef jobs? The most popular types of Certified Master Chef jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Certified Master Chef jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Certified Master Chef jobs are:
Infographic showing various Certified Master Chef job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,999 per year, or $54.3 per hour.
Executive Chef-Sign on Bonus $1000

Executive Chef-Sign on Bonus $1000

QUEST FOOD MANAGEMENT SERVICES LLC

Highwood, IL • On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Quest Food Management Services rating

3.4

Company rating: 3.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 67 rated caterers


Job description

About Company:

For over 40 years, Quest Food Management Services has been a leading food service provider serving K-12 schools, higher education institutions, corporate dining programs, and event venues. Quest is consistently ranked among the top food service management companies in the United States for its commitment to fresh, scratch made menus, local sourcing, and intensely personal service. At the heart of our success is our “Quest Ready” culture, built on integrity, responsiveness, accountability, respect, and excellence.
Being Quest Ready means serving with purpose and care, creating experiences that are nourishing, welcoming, and reliable. This mindset empowers our teams to build lasting relationships and continually raise the standard for great hospitality in every community we serve.

About the Role:

The Executive Chef will lead the culinary operations within our retail trade environment, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, safety, and presentation. This role is pivotal in designing innovative menus that align with customer preferences and market trends while maintaining cost efficiency and profitability. The Executive Chef will oversee kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment that emphasizes continuous improvement and professional development. They will also manage supplier relationships and inventory to guarantee the availability of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Ultimately, the Executive Chef will drive the culinary vision that enhances the brand reputation and customer satisfaction across all retail locations.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Chef in a high-volume retail or hospitality setting.
  • Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification from an accredited institution.
  • Strong knowledge of food safety standards and kitchen management practices.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a diverse culinary team.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working within the retail trade industry or multi-location food service operations.
  • Advanced culinary certifications such as Certified Executive Chef (CEC) or Certified Master Chef (CMC).
  • Proficiency in inventory management software and point-of-sale systems.
  • Background in menu engineering and cost control strategies.
  • Familiarity with dietary restrictions and allergen management.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement creative and seasonal menus that meet customer expectations and business goals.
  • Supervise and mentor kitchen staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management.
  • Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations and maintain a clean, organized kitchen environment.
  • Manage food costs, inventory, and supplier relationships to optimize budget and reduce waste.
  • Collaborate with retail management and marketing teams to align culinary offerings with brand strategy and promotional activities.

Skills:

The Executive Chef will utilize leadership skills daily to inspire and manage kitchen teams, ensuring efficient and harmonious operations. Culinary expertise is essential for creating innovative menus that balance creativity with cost-effectiveness and customer preferences. Strong organizational skills are applied to manage inventory, control food costs, and maintain compliance with health and safety regulations. Communication skills are critical for coordinating with suppliers, retail management, and marketing teams to align culinary initiatives with business objectives. Additionally, problem-solving skills are frequently employed to address operational challenges and continuously improve kitchen performance.

#Questfood


Monday-Friday, no late nights, no weekends!

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