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Chef In Training Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef University Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

We are a restaurant company that operates in contract food service. That means you will have the ... The Sous Chef I plays a key leadership role by motivating, training, developing, and directing back ...

We are a restaurant company that operates in contract food service. That means you will have the ... The Sous Chef I plays a key leadership role by motivating, training, developing, and directing back ...

Night Picker

Portland, OR · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

With Protein, Specialty, Produce, and Broadline offerings, we service the most discerning chefs in ... training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. #LI-LD1 #LI-ONSITE The above is ...

Sous Chef University Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

We are a restaurant company that operates in contract food service. That means you will have the ... The Sous Chef I plays a key leadership role by motivating, training, developing, and directing back ...

With Protein, Specialty, Produce, and Broadline offerings, we service the most discerning chefs in ... training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. #LI-LD1 #LI-ONSITE The above is ...

With Protein, Specialty, Produce, and Broadline offerings, we service the most discerning chefs in ... One to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and ...

With Protein, Specialty, Produce, and Broadline offerings, we service the most discerning chefs in ... One to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and ...

With Protein, Specialty, Produce, and Broadline offerings, we service the most discerning chefs in ... training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. #LI-LD1 #LI-ONSITE The above is ...

Chef de Cuisine

Portland, OR

$70K - $96K/yr

Summary The Chef de Cuisine sets the tone for Sonesta's Culture of Caring. We expect leaders to ... Ensure employees receive proper training applicable to their position and career aspirations in ...

Day Warehouse Janitor

Portland, OR · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

With Protein, Specialty, Produce, and Broadline offerings, we service the most discerning chefs in ... transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities and general treatment during ...

CHEF

Portland, OR · On-site

* We are hiring immediately for a full time CHEF position. * Location : Adidas - 5055 North Greely ... payroll, training, counseling, participating in reviews and recommending disciplinary action.

Day Warehouse Janitor

Portland, OR · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

With Protein, Specialty, Produce, and Broadline offerings, we service the most discerning chefs in ... transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities and general treatment during ...

Sous Chef

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

Paid time off Are you looking to grow in the restaurant industry? Do you have strong leadership and ... Our goal is to exceed governmental safety requirements by offering continual safety training ...

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Chef In Training information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$26

$47

How much do chef in training jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef in training in Portland, OR is $26.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $32.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Portland, OR? For Chef In Training jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chef In Training jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Chef In Training jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Chef In Training jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Chef In Training job openings:
Infographic showing various Chef In Training job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,324 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Sous Chef University Portland

Sous Chef University Portland

Compass Group

Portland, OR • On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,074 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 449 rated business services


Job description

Position Title: Sous Chef University Portland  

Salary:  62,000-72,000

Other Forms of Compensation:  

Our Passion is Food!
At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding service! At Bon Appetit you won't find our managers referring to a corporate recipe book or our chefs microwaving the lunch special. We do not have standardized recipes or central commissaries, instead, our chefs and managers are expected to stay abreast of current culinary trends and bring cutting edge food into their cafes. We are a restaurant company that operates in contract food service. That means you will have the freedom to be creative, take risks, and truly shine. We are committed to our staff growing, trying new things, and learning all that they can. Our rapid growth and breadth of accounts translates into exciting opportunities for our people!

Job Summary

As a Sous Chef I, you are responsible for assisting with the overall success of the food program and overseeing culinary operations. This position supports all phases of planning, ordering, inventory management, and food preparation while ensuring alignment with the client's culture and expectations.

You will ensure compliance with all applicable Health Department regulations and company standards related to food quality, freshness, safety, and presentation.

The Sous Chef I plays a key leadership role by motivating, training, developing, and directing back-of-house associates to deliver a high-quality dining experience and meet operational objectives for customers, clients, and management.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist in coordinating and actively participating in the preparation and cooking of a variety of food items
  • Support menu planning and development, including daily offerings and weekly specials (bowls, sandwiches, burgers, and salads)
  • Execute and support new culinary programs in collaboration with marketing and culinary teams
  • Properly forecast, manage ordering, and maintain accurate inventory levels
  • Assist in managing food and labor costs, including waste reduction and pricing menu items to meet food cost targets
  • Plan and execute catering events with minimal supervision
  • Ensure compliance with sanitation, safety, and food handling standards at all times
  • Manage and maintain all required logs, including production, sanitation, cleaning, deep cleaning, temperature, cooling, receiving, and cooking logs
  • Conduct daily line checks and food tastings; adjust seasoning, quality, and presentation as needed
  • Supervise kitchen staff to ensure team members are on task, working safely, and maintaining productivity standards
  • Assist with scheduling and daily kitchen operations to ensure proper staffing levels
  • Maintain and distribute production sheets and ensure adherence to recipes and portioning standards
  • Conduct daily safety meetings and reinforce safe work practices
  • Train new team members on proper sanitation, safety procedures, and kitchen operations
  • Coach and develop staff on culinary techniques, skill development, and performance improvement
  • Review and sign off on logs to ensure tasks and sanitation standards are completed accurately
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Minimum of 5 years of related culinary experience, including at least 1 year in a supervisory or management role
  • Experience in high-volume environments such as restaurants, hotels, corporate dining, education, healthcare, or similar food service operations
  • Strong knowledge of current food trends, quality standards, production, sanitation, safety, and cost control practices
  • Proven leadership skills with the ability to train, coach, and develop team members
  • Experience with inventory management, ordering, and food cost analysis
  • Ability to accurately price menu items to achieve targeted food cost percentages
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills in a fast-paced environment
  • ServSafe or Department of Health certification preferred
  • Basic computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel)
  • Associate's degree in Culinary Arts or related field preferred

Apply to Bon Appetit today!

Bon Appetit is a member of Compass Group USA.

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

Associates at Bon Appetit are offered many fantastic benefits.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_BAMCO.pdf

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Bon Appetit maintains a drug-free workplace.

Req ID:  1544262

Bon Appetit 

BRYAN GONI 


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