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Chef In Training Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Ancho & Agave

Executive Chef (4231)

Lombard, IL

$70K - $85K/yr

Executive Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary ... Must be able to travel away from home for 35-45 days to participate in management training.

MAXBY HOSPITALITY INC

Executive Chef (4231)

Lombard, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Executive Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary ... Must be able to travel away from home for 35-45 days to participate in management training.

Clique Hospitality L.L.C.

Sous Chef - Venteux

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... in the industry; Assist Executive Chef with cooking procedures and kitchen operations to enhance ... Training, Development, and Management of Kitchen Staff. • Train and educate staff on food ...

Venteux

Sous Chef - Venteux

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... in the industry; Assist Executive Chef with cooking procedures and kitchen operations to enhance ... Training, Development, and Management of Kitchen Staff. • Train and educate staff on food ...

MAXBY HOSPITALITY INC

Sous Chef (6784)

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Sous Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences ... Must be able to travel away from home for 35-45 days to participate in management training.

Ancho & Agave

Sous Chef (6784)

Bloomington, IL

$50K - $65K/yr

Sous Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences ... Must be able to travel away from home for 35-45 days to participate in management training.

Gingie

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Gingie | In partnership with Chef Brian Lockwood & Boka Restaurant Group Gingie , a new restaurant ... training, and performance management of BOH team members * Participate in manager meetings and ...

DineAmic Hospitality

Executive Chef - NAIA

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $101K/yr

Brought to you by DineAmic Hospitality and situated along the Chicago River in River North, NAIA is ... Support company initiatives, new restaurant openings, training programs, and special events as ...

Topography Hospitality-The Lake

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$75K - $85K/yr

... training. * Assist in developing systems, prep lists, and operational workflows. * Identify ... Executive Chef CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS: The Lake is seeking candidates who bring strong culinary ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF

Chicago, IL

$51K - $69K/yr

... Training Pay Grade: 12 Morrison Healthcare , a Compass Healthcare company, is a leader in health ... Job Summary As the Sous Chef , you will play a key leadership role in the daily operation of the ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF

Chicago, IL

$51K - $69K/yr

... Training Pay Grade: 12 Morrison Healthcare , a Compass Healthcare company, is a leader in health ... Job Summary As the Sous Chef , you will play a key leadership role in the daily operation of the ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF

Chicago, IL · On-site

... 401K, Training Pay Grade: 12 Morrison Healthcare ,a Compass Healthcare company, is a leader in ... Job Summary As the Sous Chef , you will play a key leadership role in the daily operation of the ...

Morrison Healthcare

SOUS CHEF

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

... Training Pay Grade: 12 Morrison Healthcare , a Compass Healthcare company, is a leader in health ... Job Summary As the Sous Chef , you will play a key leadership role in the daily operation of the ...

Cafe Yaya

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$55K - $75K/yr

Cafe Yaya is owned and operated by Chef Zachary Engel and Andrés Clavero. The restaurant is a ... in the recruitment and retention of culinary employees including corrective action, training, and ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $101K/yr

... training Pay Grade: 13 Morrison Healthcare , a Compass Healthcare company, is a leader in health ... Job Summary As the Executive Chef in a healthcare setting, you will lead all kitchen operations ...

Morrison Healthcare

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $101K/yr

... training Pay Grade: 13 Morrison Healthcare , a Compass Healthcare company, is a leader in health ... Job Summary As the Executive Chef in a healthcare setting, you will lead all kitchen operations ...

Four Seasons Hotels Limited

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K - $77K/yr

The Sous Chef is an essential member of Food & Beverage leadership team which is dedicated to ... ServSafe allergen training. * Reading, writing and oral proficiency in the English language.

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $101K/yr

... training Pay Grade: 13 Morrison Healthcare , a Compass Healthcare company, is a leader in health ... Job Summary As the Executive Chef in a healthcare setting, you will lead all kitchen operations ...

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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 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.

How much does a trainee chef earn?

A trainee chef typically earns between minimum wage and $15 per hour, depending on the location, establishment, and level of experience. Compensation often increases with skill development, certifications, and on-the-job training hours.

What is a chef in training called?

A chef in training is often referred to as a culinary apprentice or trainee. This stage involves learning cooking techniques, kitchen skills, and gaining hands-on experience under supervision, often as part of culinary education or apprenticeship programs.

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 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.

Is 35 too late to become a chef?

There is no age limit to becoming a chef in training, and many successful chefs start their culinary careers later in life. Gaining skills through culinary schools or apprenticeships can be done at any age, and experience can be an asset in the kitchen environment.

How to become a trainee chef?

To become a trainee chef, you typically need to complete a culinary training program or apprenticeship, which provides hands-on experience in a professional kitchen. Developing basic cooking skills, understanding food safety standards, and gaining experience through entry-level kitchen roles can also help you progress toward a chef in training position.
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:
Chef In Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chef In Training job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Executive Chef (4231)

Ancho & Agave

Lombard, IL

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Ancho & Agave is seeking a motivated, creative, and reliable Executive Chef to help us create the ultimate dining experience for our guests. If you have a passion for the culinary arts and possess great leadership skills, we want YOU! 

Qualified candidates will be driven to succeed, possess excellent multitasking, interpersonal and communication skills with the desire to develop people and culture while having a strong culinary background and a passion for food and the guest experience. This is a working Chef position. 

Executive Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences for our guests, overseeing the daily operations of the restaurant’s kitchen, interviewing & hiring kitchen staff, supervising all kitchen staff, training and upholding standards for food preparation and plating, training and enforcing food safety & sanitation, training & enforcing workplace safety, scheduling and directing kitchen facility & equipment maintenance, creating work schedules, controlling operational costs, monitoring inventory, purchasing supplies and food from approved vendors, and appraising staff performance. 

Executive Chef Skills & Qualifications:

  • Minimum 3 years of experience as an Executive Chef in a full-service, high-volume restaurant. 
  • Current Food Safety and Sanitation certification. 
  • Advanced culinary skills including food preparation and cooking best practices. 
  • Strong knowledge of restaurant industry operations, safety, and sanitation standards. 
  • Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively (verbal and written). 
  • Ability to lead a diverse team with varying degrees of experience. 
  • Strong leadership and coaching skills with ability to motivate employees and obtain positive results. 
  • Excellent time management, organizational, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. 
  • Ability to create and maintain vendor relationships for effective partnerships. 
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously to deliver on-time results. 
  • Must be able to travel away from home for 35-45 days to participate in management training. 
  • Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays. 
  • Must be able to work a variety of morning, afternoon, evening & late-night work shifts, to match operational needs. 
  • Ability to work 45-55 hour work weeks. Work week hours will vary based on operational needs. 
  • Must have exceptional hygiene and grooming habits. 
  • Must have reliable transportation to and from work. 
  • High level of stamina to work on feet for extended periods. 
  • Must be able to stand, sit, push, pull, reach, bend, stoop and frequently lift up to 50 lbs. 
  • Must be 21 years or age or older 

 Executive Chef Employment Benefits:

  • Competitive Salary ($70,000 - $85,000 annually, based on experience)
  • Performance-based Bonus Program (Up to $12,500 in years 1-3)
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life Insurance 
  • Paid Vacation upon hire 
  • 401(k) with company match 
  • Career advancement opportunities 
  • Allowance for off-duty dining 
  • Relocation assistance 

Ancho & Agave was born out of a flavor-obsessed craving for fresh, delicious Mexican food with a side of fun. We're more than just tacos, amigos and tequila... we're the champions of bringing together quality ingredients, refreshing beverages and good times for a crave-worthy experience in a casual setting.

Ancho & Agave is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all persons regardless of age, race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, military or veteran's status, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State, or local law.

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