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Chef Owner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sushi chef

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Performs additional responsibilities at the request of Management and Owners Qualifications - * Must have prior experience as a sushi chef * Must have excellent knife skills * Must be able to work in ...

Sushi chef

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Performs additional responsibilities at the request of Management and Owners Qualifications - * Must have prior experience as a sushi chef * Must have excellent knife skills * Must be able to work in ...

Sushi Chef

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Performs additional responsibilities at the request of Management and Owners Qualifications * Must have prior experience as a sushi chef * Must have excellent knife skills * Must be able to work in a ...

Sous Chef

Woodland Hills, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

In this role, you will work closely with the Executive Chef to create innovative menus and prepare ... owned and operated Discover Deux Bistro, your charming French escape nestled in the heart of ...

Sous Chef

Pismo Beach, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

You'll support the Chef, guide the kitchen staff, and oversee daily operations to deliver ... guests, owners, and team members alike. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, and Newport Beach ...

Executive Chef

Monterey, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

As our Executive Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing our culinary operations, menu ... In keeping with the company's heritage of delivering value to its owners and team members, Davidson ...

Banquet Chef

San Diego, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

We are the largest owner and operator of private clubs nationwide, with 130+ country clubs, city ... The Banquet Chef works closely with the Executive Chef and event staff to ensure the highest ...

We are the largest owner and operator of private clubs nationwide, with 130+ country clubs, city ... The Banquet Chef works closely with the Executive Chef and event staff to ensure the highest ...

Showing results 41-60

Chef Owner information

See California salary details

$31.6K

$78.3K

$112.5K

How much do chef owner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 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 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.

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 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.

Infographic showing various Chef Owner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% 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.

Sushi chef

Bear Flag Fish Company

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Company parties
  • Employee discounts
  • Free uniforms
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • 401(k)

Bear Flag Fish Company is looking for an experienced sushi chef!  Bear Flag was founded in 2007 with the motto of serving fresh and sustainable seafood. Our sushi chefs are a vital part of our restaurant and our guests experience at Bear Flag! We are looking for someone who is available to work on a full time basis with extensive knowledge of seafood and knife skills. 
Responsibilities to include -
  • Maintain sanitation of sushi bar and equipment 
  • Follow kitchen rules, policies and procedures
  • Prepare various forms of sushi, sashimi, rolls and other various items
  • Stock and maintain sufficient levels of product at the sushi bar
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment
  • Work as a supportive team member during the course of the shift
  • Performs additional responsibilities at the request of Management and Owners
Qualifications -
  • Must have prior experience as a sushi chef
  • Must have excellent knife skills
  • Must be able to work in a fast paced environment
  • Must have knowledge of seafood and best food safety practices
  • Must be available to work weekends
Benefits-
  • Paid weekly!
  • Hourly Pay + Tips! 
  • Health insurance available
  • 401k option
  • All major holidays off
  • No late nights!
  • Discounts on food and merchandise
Please reach out to accounting@bearflagfishco.com for more information or with any questions regarding this position!