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Chef Kitchen Manager Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef/Kitchen Manager

Bristol, TN · On-site

$42K - $57K/yr

Metz Culinary Management is growing and we have an opening for Rock Star Sous Chef / Kitchen Manager who shares our passion for Food, Service and Leadership. We are seeking a Culinary Leader, with a ...

Kitchen Lead/Sous Chef

Franklin, TN · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

We're seeking a passionate Sous Chef / Kitchen Lead to help shape and grow our culinary program. The ideal candidate leads by example, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is committed to quality ...

Kitchen Lead/Sous Chef

Franklin, TN · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

We're seeking a passionate Sous Chef / Kitchen Lead to help shape and grow our culinary program. The ideal candidate leads by example, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is committed to quality ...

Kitchen Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Requirements: * 3-5 years of kitchen leadership experience (Sous Chef or higher). * Proven ability to manage kitchen staff and control food/labor costs. * Strong knowledge of kitchen operations, prep ...

As the person responsible for the successful operation of the kitchen, the Kitchen Manager must work with the General Manager and Executive Chef to supervise menu development, kitchen service ...

As the person responsible for the successful operation of the kitchen, the Kitchen Manager must work with the General Manager and Executive Chef to supervise menu development, kitchen service ...

As the person responsible for the successful operation of the kitchen, the Kitchen Manager must work with the General Manager and Executive Chef to supervise menu development, kitchen service ...

As the person responsible for the successful operation of the kitchen, the Kitchen Manager must work with the General Manager and Executive Chef to supervise menu development, kitchen service ...

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Chef Kitchen Manager information

What does a Chef Kitchen Manager do?

A Chef Kitchen Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a restaurant kitchen. They manage kitchen staff, plan menus, ensure food quality and safety standards are met, and handle inventory and budgeting. This role combines culinary expertise with management duties, ensuring smooth kitchen processes and excellent food service. Chef Kitchen Managers also play a key role in training staff and maintaining a clean, organized work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chef Kitchen Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chef Kitchen Manager, you need strong culinary expertise, leadership skills, and experience in kitchen operations management, often backed by a culinary degree or relevant certifications. Familiarity with inventory management systems, food safety protocols, and scheduling software is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and the ability to motivate and train staff are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient kitchen operations, high food quality, and a positive work environment, which are crucial for restaurant success.

What are some common challenges a Chef Kitchen Manager faces when balancing culinary creativity with operational efficiency?

Chef Kitchen Managers often find it challenging to balance their passion for innovative cuisine with the need to maintain cost control, inventory accuracy, and consistent food quality. While they have the opportunity to develop new menu items and inspire their team, they must also ensure that production stays on schedule, labor costs are managed, and health and safety standards are met. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, adaptability, and effective communication with both kitchen staff and management to meet business goals while delivering a memorable dining experience.

What is the difference between Chef Kitchen Manager vs Sous Chef?

AspectChef Kitchen ManagerSous Chef
Primary RoleOversees kitchen operations, manages staff, ensures quality and safety standardsAssists head chef, supervises kitchen staff, prepares dishes
CredentialsOften requires culinary degree and management experienceTypically culinary training or experience, less focus on management
Work EnvironmentKitchen management, administrative tasks, staff coordinationKitchen, food preparation, direct supervision of cooks
Industry UsageUsed in restaurants, hotels, catering servicesCommonly found in similar settings, often reporting to Chef or Kitchen Manager

The Chef Kitchen Manager focuses on overseeing the entire kitchen operation, including staff management and quality control, while the Sous Chef primarily assists the head chef with food preparation and kitchen supervision. Both roles require culinary skills, but the Kitchen Manager emphasizes leadership and administrative duties.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Chef Kitchen Manager jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Chef Kitchen Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Chef Kitchen Manager job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution.

Sous Chef/Kitchen Manager

Bristol, TN • On-site

Metz Culinary Management
Traveler Accommodation • 5 - 10K employees

$42K - $57K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Metz Culinary Management rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

This Sous Chef position with Metz Culinary Management at King University is a hands-on culinary leadership role supporting daily campus dining and catered events. The Sous Chef will work alongside the Executive Chef to deliver consistent, high-quality food for students, faculty, staff, and university guests.
This position offers the opportunity to be part of a growing culinary team serving the King University community. The primary schedule is centered around campus dining operations, with additional opportunities to support a variety of catered events and special functions throughout the year. The successful candidate will bring energy, consistency, creativity, and a team-first attitude to every service.
Metz Culinary Management is growing and we have an opening for Rock Star Sous Chef / Kitchen Manager who shares our passion for Food, Service and Leadership.
We are seeking a Culinary Leader, with a mentoring management style contributing to a culture of fun, creativity and growth. If you have the CULINARY CHOPS and passion for current, trending and diverse menus, and are ready to hit the ground running in a fast paced, multi-outlet setting, we would like to hear from you!
Must have solid kitchen leadership experience. Experience desired in a Contract Dining Food Service setting such as Hospital, School, College, Senior Living or Corporate Dining accounts. A strong Supervisor with solid Culinary Training, ready for the next step would be ideal.
Requirements:
  • 3-5+Plus Years in a Supervisory Experience or Sous Chef
  • High Volume background
  • Impeccable communication skills
  • Restaurant Management knowledge
  • Thorough knowledge of Menu implementation with STUNNING presentation ideas
  • Catering Experience
  • Culinary Degree strongly preferred

Metz Culinary Management Values are what separates us from the competition. Our Leaders share our Values, Attributes, and Strategic Focus reinforcing our culture and values every day to our Team Members creating an environment for personal growth, enrichment and career success.
As one of the fastest growing companies in the industry, we continually seek talented and dedicated individuals who share our commitment to excellence. Join our team of over 7,000 team members who share a passion for Onsite Dining and Support Services, working together toward one common goal, excellence, in quality and service. We are committed to providing the atmosphere, opportunity, and benefits that enable us to be an employer of choice in the industry.
We are a family-driven company that delivers restaurant-inspired hospitality to everyone we serve.

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