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Chef Owner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vespertine

Research and Development Chef

Culver City, CA

$80K - $100K/yr

SUMMARY OF POSITION The R&D Chef is a collaborative culinary leadership role working closely with Chef/Owner Jordan Kahn and the Director of Culinary to develop, refine, and bring ideas to fruition ...

Destroyer

Chef de Cuisine

Culver City, CA

$72K - $99K/yr

Under the direction of the Chef Owner, Culinary Director, perform assigned responsibilities necessary for the timely service of quality food to our guests, advance the education and ...

Destroyer

Chef de Cuisine

Culver City, CA

$90K - $100K/yr

Under the direction of the Chef Owner, Culinary Director, perform assigned responsibilities necessary for the timely service of quality food to our guests, advance the education and ...

SingleThread

Sous Chef

Healdsburg, CA

$16.50/hr

Under the general direction of the Chef/Owner and Chef de Cuisine, the Sous Chef works with the Vertice Hospitality team members to carry out the daily activities of the kitchen including development ...

SingleThread

Chef de Partie

Healdsburg, CA

$16.50/hr

Responsible for the efficient, consistent, accurate and organized production of mise en place requested by the Sous Chefs, Chef de Cuisine, and Executive Chef/Owner. Assist in training and mentoring ...

SingleThread

Pastry Chef de Partie

Healdsburg, CA

$16.50/hr

Responsible for the efficient, consistent, accurate and organized production of mise en place requested by the Sous Chefs, Chef de Cuisine, and Executive Chef/Owner. Assist in training and mentoring ...

SingleThread

Pastry Commis

Healdsburg, CA

$16.50/hr

The Pastry Commis I will be responsible for following direction from the Pastry Chef, Pastry Sous Chefs, Chef de Cuisine, and Executive Chef/Owner in their daily production tasks and adapt to daily ...

Octavia

Frances Is Hiring Line Cooks

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22 - $33/hr

Frances is a James Beard Award nominated restaurant in San Francisco's Castro District, helmed by award-winning Chef Owner Melissa Perello. Frances' elegantly understated decor reflects the ...

BROWN SUGAR BAKERY

Be Seen First

Cashier and Pastry Chef Assistant

Los Angeles, CA

$17 - $21.50/hr

Head Pastry Chef / Owners About Brown Sugar Bakery Brown Sugar Bakery is a culturally inspired bakery specializing in Southern-style desserts with a Central American influence. Our goal is to provide ...

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All JobsChef Owner JobsChef Owner Jobs in California

Chef Owner information

See California salary details

$31.6K

$78.3K

$112.5K

How much do chef owner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for chef owner in California is $78,270.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,600.00 and $89,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chef owner?

A Chef Owner is a professional who both owns and operates a restaurant or food establishment, taking on the dual role of head chef and business owner. This means they are responsible for designing menus, overseeing kitchen operations, and ensuring food quality, while also managing business aspects such as finances, marketing, and staffing. Chef Owners often bring their unique culinary vision to their establishments, shaping the restaurant’s identity. They must balance creative culinary work with the demands of running a successful business. This role requires strong leadership, business acumen, and a passion for food.

What is the difference between Chef Owner vs Chef?

AspectChef OwnerChef
CredentialsCooking certifications, culinary degrees often preferredCooking certifications, culinary degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentOwns and manages a restaurant, involved in business operationsWorks in kitchens, preparing food, often under a head chef or executive chef
Industry UsageCommon in restaurant ownership and managementCommon in restaurant kitchens, culinary establishments

The main difference between a Chef Owner and a Chef is that the Chef Owner owns and manages the restaurant, handling both culinary and business responsibilities. In contrast, a Chef typically works in the kitchen, focusing on food preparation and culinary skills without ownership duties.

What are some key challenges a chef owner may face when balancing kitchen duties with business management responsibilities?

As a Chef Owner, you'll need to juggle both culinary excellence and business operations, which can be demanding. Common challenges include managing the kitchen staff while also handling finances, marketing, and customer relations. Time management is crucial, as you’ll often need to shift quickly between cooking, supervising service, and making strategic business decisions. Success depends on building a reliable team, delegating effectively, and continuously adapting to industry trends while maintaining high food and service standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chef owner?

To thrive as a Chef Owner, you need expert culinary skills, business acumen, and experience in restaurant management, often supported by formal culinary training or hospitality degrees. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and relevant health and safety certifications is essential. Leadership, creativity, and strong interpersonal skills help foster a positive team culture and deliver exceptional guest experiences. These competencies are crucial to ensure both the operational success and culinary excellence of your establishment.
Chef Owner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chef Owner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,270 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Sous Chef Peninsula: $80k - $90k

Foley and Fitzgerald

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Chef owned and operated newer elevated farm-to-table restaurant looking for a seasoned Michelin style professional Sous Chef. Work with and be supported by the stability of consistent top-notch leadership. Must be an expert at every station on the line, and an accomplished well-mannered expeditor. This Chef-owner takes great pride in the personal development of their leadership team.

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