ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Chef Pay Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Well Dunn Catering

Event Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Chef pay rates begin at $28 per hour , and we can offer more based on experience. Please attach a resume in your email that details your work experience and history.

Well Dunn Catering

Event Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Chef pay rates begin at $28 per hour , and we can offer more based on experience. Please attach a resume in your email that details your work experience and history.

Concord Hospitality

Sous Chef

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$55K - $69K/yr

Pay Range: $55,404.02 - $69,255.02 Responsibilities: • Trains all associates in the kitchen how ... Chef. Also, all utility and sanitation associates; and to provide supervisory guidance, aid and ...

Compass Group

Production Chef

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Production Chef Pay Grade: 11 Reports To: Executive Chef Salary: $65,000 to $70,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is Food! At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things ...

Auberge Collection

AM Junior Sous Chef

SC · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Leads and manages service in the absence of the Sous Chef ... Pay $22 - $25, dependent on experience Additional Benefits: * Free Parking * Free Team Member ...

Compass Group

SR. EXECUTIVE CHEF

Columbia, SC

$100K - $125K/yr

Position Title: Sr. Executive Chef Pay Grade: 16 Reports To: Sr. DFNS Salary: $100,000 - $125,000 Other Forms of Compensation: relocation assistance Morrison Healthcare , a Compass Healthcare company ...

Compass Group

SR. EXECUTIVE CHEF

Columbia, SC · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Position Title: Sr. Executive Chef Pay Grade: 16 Reports To: Sr. DFNS Salary: $100,000 - $125,000 Other Forms of Compensation: relocation assistance Morrison Healthcare , a Compass Healthcare company ...

Compass Group

SR. EXECUTIVE CHEF

Columbia, SC · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Position Title: Sr. Executive Chef Pay Grade: 16 Reports To: Sr. DFNS Salary: $100,000 - $125,000 Other Forms of Compensation: relocation assistance Morrison Healthcare ,a Compass Healthcare company ...

Compass Group

SR. EXECUTIVE CHEF

Columbia, SC · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Position Title: SR. EXECUTIVE CHEF Pay Grade: 16 Reports To: SR. DFNS Salary: 100 - 120K Other Forms of Compensation: RELOCATION ASSISTANCE Morrison Healthcare ,a Compass Healthcare company, is a ...

Compass Group

SR. EXECUTIVE CHEF

Columbia, SC · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Position Title: SR. EXECUTIVE CHEF Pay Grade: 16 Reports To: SR. DFNS Salary: 100 - 120K Other Forms of Compensation: RELOCATION ASSISTANCE Morrison Healthcare , a Compass Healthcare company, is a ...

Anaheimducks

Senior Sous Chef

Grove, OK · On-site

$73K - $92K/yr

Senior Sous Chef Pay Details: The annual base salary range for this position in California is $73,000 to $92,000 per year. The starting pay for the successful candidate depends on various job-related ...

Compass Group

SR. EXECUTIVE CHEF

Columbia, SC · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Position Title: SR. EXECUTIVE CHEF Pay Grade: 16 Reports To: SR. DFNS Salary: 100 - 120K Other Forms of Compensation: RELOCATION ASSISTANCE Morrison Healthcare , a Compass Healthcare company, is a ...

OCVIBE

Senior Sous Chef

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$73K - $92K/yr

Senior Sous Chef Pay Details: The annual base salary range for this position in California is $73,000 to $92,000 per year. The starting pay for the successful candidate depends on various job-related ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFood JobsChef Pay Jobs

Chef Pay information

See salary details

$10

$24

$44

How much do chef pay jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef pay in the United States is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a chef typically get paid?

Chef salaries can vary widely based on experience, location, and the type of establishment. In the United States, the average annual salary for a chef ranges from $35,000 to $70,000, with executive chefs or those working in high-end restaurants earning more, sometimes exceeding $80,000. Entry-level or line cooks generally earn less, while head chefs and celebrity chefs can command much higher salaries. Benefits and tips may also contribute to total compensation. Pay can also be influenced by factors such as certifications and specialized skills.

What factors influence a chef's pay, and how can I maximize my earning potential?

A chef’s salary is usually influenced by factors such as the type of establishment (fine dining, hotel, catering, etc.), geographic location, years of experience, and level of responsibility (e.g., line cook vs. executive chef). Chefs can maximize earning potential by gaining specialized culinary skills, seeking certifications, building a strong reputation, and pursuing leadership roles. Networking within the industry and staying updated on food trends can also lead to higher-paying opportunities or advancement to head chef positions.

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

To thrive as a Chef, you need strong culinary skills, creativity, and a solid understanding of food safety, often supported by a culinary degree or relevant experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, recipe management systems, and food safety certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Leadership, time management, and the ability to work under pressure are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure high-quality food preparation, efficient kitchen operations, and a positive dining experience for customers.

What is the difference between Chef Pay vs Cook Pay?

AspectChef PayCook Pay
Required CredentialsOften culinary certifications or degrees, experienceLess formal credentials, on-the-job training common
Work EnvironmentHigh-end restaurants, hotels, culinary establishmentsCasual restaurants, cafeterias, fast food
Industry UsageMore specialized, leadership roles in kitchensEntry-level, support roles in food service
Search & Comparison IntentHigher salary, career advancementBasic pay, entry-level opportunities

In summary, Chef Pay typically involves higher wages, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities compared to Cook Pay, which is more entry-level with less formal credentials. Both roles are essential in the food industry but differ significantly in experience, environment, and compensation.

Do chefs make good money?

Chefs can earn a wide range of salaries depending on experience, location, and the type of establishment. Entry-level chefs typically earn lower wages, while executive chefs or those in high-end restaurants can make significantly higher salaries, often supplemented by tips and bonuses. Skills, certifications, and working hours also influence earning potential in the culinary industry.

Which chef job pays the most?

Executive chefs and head chefs typically earn the highest salaries among culinary roles, often exceeding $70,000 annually, especially in high-end restaurants or luxury hotels. Specialized roles such as pastry chefs or culinary directors can also command high pay, particularly with extensive experience and certifications. Salary varies based on location, establishment size, and individual expertise.

What cities are hiring for Chef Pay jobs?

Cities with the most Chef Pay job openings:

What states have the most Chef Pay jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chef Pay jobs include:

Chef Pay jobs near you

Event Chef

Well Dunn Catering

Washington, DC • On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Experienced Event Chefs

Well Dunn Catering - Washington, DC.
Full-Time and Part-Time.
$25 -$35 per hour.
As one of DC's premier caterers, Well Dunn Catering is a leader in creating innovative, collaborative, and delicious events in the DMV area--from cocktail receptions to weddings, galas, and much more.
At the heart of our business is a diverse, knowledgeable staff who bring our events to life. As our business continues to grow, we are looking to grow our team of expertly-trained event chefs. And we hope you will join us!
In becoming a member of our event staff, we look for folks who possess the following characteristics: 
  • Experience working as a catering chef.
  • Customer service skills.
  • Reliability.
  • Punctuality. 
  • Collaborative. 
  • Attention to detail. 
  • A love for food service and an affinity for Well Dunn's mission. 

If you are looking for a flexible part-time job to supplement your income, Well Dunn could be the place for you! Do you have experience in the hospitality industry? We'd love to talk to you! 
Chef pay rates begin at $28 per hour, and we can offer more based on experience. Please attach a resume in your email that details your work experience and history.