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Chef In Training Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$51K - $69K/yr

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 ...

You play a key role in menu execution, training, and maintaining high culinary standards during ... Chef in the management of all back of house staff in an upscale / fine dining kitchen, including ...

Sous Chef

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

Must be able to travel away from home for 35-45 days to participate in management training ... Must be 21 years or age or olderSous Chef Employment Benefits:Competitive Salary ($55,000-$65,000 ...

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Lead and develop Team Members by providing structured training and in-the-moment coaching and ... Partner with the Executive Chef in shaping the strategic direction of the kitchen, including ...

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

Lead and develop Team Members by providing structured training and in-the-moment coaching and ... Partner with the Executive Chef in shaping the strategic direction of the kitchen, including ...

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$51K - $69K/yr

Lead and develop Team Members by providing structured training and in-the-moment coaching and ... Partner with the Executive Chef in shaping the strategic direction of the kitchen, including ...

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

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 ...

Sous Chef

Urbana, IL · On-site

$50/hr

Requirements POSITION SUMMARY The Sous Chef is a hands-on culinary leadership role responsible for ... Supervise kitchen staff, providing training, coaching, and discipline in accordance with Club ...

Requirements POSITION SUMMARY The Sous Chef is a hands-on culinary leadership role responsible for ... Supervise kitchen staff, providing training, coaching, and discipline in accordance with Club ...

Sous Chef

Urbana, IL · On-site

$50/hr

Requirements POSITION SUMMARY The Sous Chef is a hands-on culinary leadership role responsible for ... Supervise kitchen staff, providing training, coaching, and discipline in accordance with Club ...

Sous Chef (4487)

Naperville, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Must be able to travel away from home for 35-45 days to participate in management training ... Must be 21 years or age or older Sous Chef Employment Benefits: * Competitive Salary ($55,000 - $65 ...

Sous Chef (7660)

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Must be able to travel away from home for 35-45 days to participate in management training ... Must be 21 years or age or older Sous Chef Employment Benefits: * Competitive Salary ($55,000-$65 ...

Showing results 21-40

Chef In Training information

What is a chef in training?

A Chef In Training is someone who is learning the skills and techniques needed to become a professional chef. This role typically involves working under the supervision of experienced chefs, assisting with food preparation, and learning about kitchen operations. The position can be part of a formal culinary school program or an apprenticeship in a restaurant. Chef In Training roles are essential for gaining hands-on experience and building a foundation in the culinary arts.

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

To thrive as a Chef In Training, you need basic culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and a high school diploma or culinary school enrollment. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food handling protocols, and industry-standard tools like knives and mixers is essential. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that set aspiring chefs apart. These competencies ensure a solid foundation for learning, maintaining kitchen safety, and contributing positively to a professional kitchen environment.

What are some common challenges faced by chefs in training during their early stages in a professional kitchen?

Chefs in training often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and learning to work efficiently under pressure. Adjusting to the high standards of food quality and presentation, as well as building effective communication with experienced chefs and kitchen staff, can also be demanding. However, overcoming these obstacles is essential for skill development and can lead to valuable mentorship and growth opportunities within the culinary field.

What is the difference between Chef In Training vs Line Cook?

AspectChef In TrainingLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training, sometimes a culinary school backgroundPractical kitchen experience, often on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentLearning-focused, under supervision, assisting chefsFast-paced kitchen, preparing specific dishes
Industry UsageEntry-level culinary role, part of career developmentOperational role in restaurants, hotels, catering

Chef In Training and Line Cook roles both serve as entry points in the culinary industry. While Chef In Training focuses on learning and skill development under supervision, a Line Cook is responsible for executing specific dishes in a busy kitchen environment. Both positions require practical experience, but the Chef In Training role emphasizes education and mentorship, whereas the Line Cook role emphasizes hands-on cooking skills.

How to become a chef in training?

To become a chef in training, gain basic culinary skills through culinary school or on-the-job experience, and seek entry-level kitchen positions such as prep cook or line cook. Developing knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen tools is essential, along with a strong work ethic and willingness to learn. Certifications like ServSafe can also enhance your qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Chef In Training jobs in Illinois?

For Chef In Training jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chef In Training jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Chef In Training jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Chef In Training jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Chef In Training job openings:

Infographic showing various Chef In Training job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

$51K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 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.