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Chef Intern Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

AEG

Pastry Intern (The Hotel Hershey) Winter 2027

Hershey, PA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

As a Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Intern, you will enjoy sweet perks like FREE admission and ... Following guidelines of Sous Chef and Pastry Cook I* * Controlling waste; following company ...

Kimpton Hotels

Culinary J1 Intern

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Report any maintenance or repairs needed to the Executive Chef. * Follow departmental policies as well as restaurant rules and regulations set forth in the Employee Handbook and by management. What ...

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Chef Intern information

What is a chef intern?

Chef Interns are individuals who are gaining hands-on experience in a professional kitchen as part of their culinary education or training. They typically work under the supervision of experienced chefs and kitchen staff, learning various cooking techniques, food preparation methods, and kitchen operations. Chef Interns may assist with tasks such as prepping ingredients, plating dishes, maintaining cleanliness, and following food safety protocols. This role provides valuable real-world exposure and helps aspiring chefs develop the skills needed for a culinary career.

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

To thrive as a Chef Intern, you need a basic understanding of culinary techniques, food safety principles, and a willingness to learn, often supported by enrollment in or completion of a culinary program. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, knife skills, and knowledge of food safety certifications such as ServSafe is beneficial. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a positive attitude help you excel in fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environments. These skills are crucial for ensuring efficient kitchen operations, learning from experienced chefs, and building a successful culinary career.

What are some common challenges chef interns face during their training, and how can they overcome them?

Chef Interns often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced kitchen environment, mastering time management, and maintaining high standards under pressure. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking guidance from experienced chefs and asking questions can help build confidence. Developing strong communication skills and being proactive about learning new techniques are key to thriving in this role. Embracing feedback and staying organized will help interns grow and succeed in their culinary journey.

What is the difference between Chef Intern vs Line Cook?

AspectChef InternLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training or student statusRelevant culinary experience or training
Work EnvironmentTraining kitchen, learning-focusedFast-paced kitchen, production-oriented
Employer UsageInternship programs, culinary schoolsRestaurants, hotels, catering services
Search & ComparisonOften searched by students or entry-level job seekersCompared for hands-on cooking roles

In summary, a Chef Intern is typically a trainee gaining foundational skills in a learning environment, while a Line Cook is an experienced professional responsible for preparing dishes in a busy kitchen. The internship focuses on education and skill development, whereas the line cook role emphasizes efficiency and production.

Is 25 too late to become a chef intern?

There is no age limit to becoming a chef intern, and many programs welcome applicants of various ages. At 25, you can gain valuable culinary skills, certifications, and experience that can help you pursue a career in cooking or advance within the industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Pennsylvania?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Pennsylvania are:

Chef Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chef Intern job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Internship, 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Event Chef - Catering (On Call)

Villanova University

Villanova, PA • On-site

$30/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 5 days ago

Villanova University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

316th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Do you have questions about the application process? If so, please refer to the Applicant FAQ's.
Posting Details (Default Section)
Posting Number:
20260029T
Position Title:
Event Chef - Catering (On Call)
Position Type:
Temp/Intern
Location:
Villanova, PA
Work Schedule:
casual/seasonal
Approximate Number of Hours per Week
Department:
423-Catering
Position Summary:
Why work at Villanova?
  • Join a mission-driven organization. Since Villanova University's founding in 1842, we have been inspired by the values of truth, unity, and love, and are a community dedicated to service to others.
  • Villanova has been included among the nation's best colleges and universities. VU's inclusion again in U.S. News & World Report's 2026 "Best Colleges" rankings is another indication of the University's continued prominence and forward momentum.

The Event Chef will support and execute catered events per instructions from the Executive Chef on an as needed basis. Acts as lead culinarian for events by supervising the work of the Event Cooks who are on staff during large events.
Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.
Duties and Responsibilities:
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
This position will work with management and co-workers to instill and foster the values of the Villanova Mission and the Dining Services Mission Statement. This position will focus on our Core Values: Sanitation, Friendly Courteous Service, Quality, Meticulous Attention to Detail, and Safety.
  • Prepare and execute menus for catering events, ensuring consistency and high-quality presentation.
  • Collaborate with event planners to accommodate dietary preferences and special requests.
  • Set up and break down cooking stations at event venues, ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.
  • Manage food inventory, prep work, and ensure timely service during events.
  • Assist with menu planning and suggest creative dishes that align with seasonal ingredients and event themes.
  • Monitor portion control and minimize food waste.
  • Supervise kitchen staff and support team members in a dynamic environment.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workspace during events.
  • Adhere to all health and safety regulations while handling food and kitchen equipment.

NONESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Assist in day time prep for events

Minimum Qualifications:
Work Experience:
  • Kitchen experience

Work Skills:
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:
Formal Education:
  • Culinary degree, preferred

Work Experience:
  • Experience in high end and high volume restaurants or catering, preferred

Specific Job Knowledge:
  • Proven experience as a chef in catering, banquets, or event-based cooking.
  • Strong knowledge of various cooking techniques, cuisines, and food presentation.
  • Ability to work well under pressure and adapt to different event settings.
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills.
  • Food Handler's Certification (or willingness to obtain).
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods.
  • Flexible schedule, including availability on weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
  • Reliable transportation to various event locations.

Equipment Knowledge:
  • Knowledge of modern cooking equipment and practices

Other:
  • Team player with a willingness to listen to direction and get the job done

Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours:
Tools, machinery, and equipment used:
  • Must have a comprehensive understanding of knife work, time and temperature regulating systems, and ability to work with hot equipment.

Environmental conditions:
  • Must be able to work in a loud, hot, noisy environment.

Physical requirements:
  • Must be able to work on feet for an extended period of time.
  • Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

Special Message to Applicants:
On call status - schedule will be determined based on needs of the department and various catering functions.
EEO Statement
Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian order. Diversity and inclusion have been and will continue to be an integral component of Villanova University's mission. The University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.
Posting Date:
06/04/2026
Closing Date (11:59pm ET):
Salary Posting Information:
Up to $30.00/hour
Job Classification:
non-exempt

What Villanova University employees say

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About Villanova University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Villanova University, located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, United States, operates within the higher education industry. Its establishment traces back to 1842 by the Augustinians, a Catholic religious order. The university offers a wide range of academic programs in various disciplines, including Liberal Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Nursing, Business, and Law, serving over 10,000 undergraduate, graduate, and law students. Guided by its Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition, it is committed to community service, and it seeks to cultivate knowledgeable, thoughtful, and ethical leaders. The university’s mission is to empower students to ignite change, with a vision for a just and peaceful world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Villanova, PA, US

Year founded

1842

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