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Chef Positions Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

Mcfarland, WI · On-site

$66K - $92K/yr

This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion. * Ability to speak, read, and understand basic cooking recipes ...

Hiway Harrys

Head Chef

Johnson Creek, WI

$20/hr

Join Us as a Highly Skilled Head Chef! Are you passionate about leading a dynamic kitchen team in a fun and loving environment? Do you thrive in fast-paced settings where your culinary creativity can ...

Delaware North

Executive Chef

Madison, WI

$81K - $110K/yr

The Chef de Cuisine will lead daily culinary operations and game-day execution for the all ... the position, would we consider paying higher than the stated range. Information on our ...

Food Fight

Executive Chef (3274)

Madison, WI · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Johnny Delmonicos - Madison, WI 53703 Position Type: Full Time Salary Range: $70,000.00 - $80,000 ... The Executive Chef is responsible for the daily operations of the kitchen such as preparing the ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Executive Chef (4106)

Madison, WI · On-site

$72K - $99K/yr

And Much More (Head here for a full list) About Position: The Executive Chef is responsible for the daily operations of the restaurant and events kitchens such as preparing the daily prep list ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Executive Chef (3274)

Madison, WI · On-site

$72K - $99K/yr

And Much More (Head here for a full list) About Position: The Executive Chef is responsible for the daily operations of the kitchen such as preparing the daily prep list, purchasing food items ...

The Coopers Tavern

Executive Chef (4106)

Madison, WI · On-site

$72K - $76K/yr

And Much More (Head here for a full list) About Position: The Executive Chef is responsible for the daily operations of the restaurant and events kitchens such as preparing the daily prep list ...

MAXBY HOSPITALITY INC

Sous Chef (3236)

Middleton, WI · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Sous Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences for our guests, overseeing & participating in the daily kitchen operations (opening/closing ...

MAXBY HOSPITALITY INC

Sous Chef (3791)

Middleton, WI · On-site

Sous Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences for our guests, overseeing & participating in the daily kitchen operations (opening/closing ...

Ancho & Agave

Sous Chef (3791)

Middleton, WI

Sous Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences for our guests, overseeing & participating in the daily kitchen operations (opening/closing ...

American Cruise Lines

Executive Sous Chef

Mcfarland, WI · On-site

$60K - $77K/yr

This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion. * Ability to speak, read, and understand basic cooking recipes ...

Oak Park Place

Traveling Chef

Madison, WI · On-site

The Traveling Chef responsibilities includes preparing and serving nutritious meals for residents while adhering to dietary requirements and food safety regulations. Key Responsibilities: * Portion ...

Mainstreet Ventures

Restaurant Sous Chef

Madison, WI · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

SOUS CHEF If you're looking for a management opportunity where you can add a touch of magic to everything you do, and you have 2+ years of current full service restaurant kitchen manager experience ...

Prairie Ridge Health

Station Chef - PRN

Columbus, WI · On-site

This position is a 0.8 FTE (32 hours per week), as needed with shifts between 5:30am-7:00pm. POSITION SUMMARY: The Station Chef is responsible for the preparation of food for patients, caters, and ...

One Prime Steakhouse

Restaurant Sous Chef

Madison, WI · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

SOUS CHEF If you're looking for a management opportunity where you can add a touch of magic to everything you do, and you have 2+ years of current full service restaurant kitchen manager experience ...

OAK PARK NURSING AND REHAB

Traveling Chef

Madison, WI · On-site

The Traveling Chef responsibilities includes preparing and serving nutritious meals for residents while adhering to dietary requirements and food safety regulations. Key Responsibilities: * Portion ...

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All JobsChef Positions JobsChef Positions Jobs in Madison, WI

Chef Positions information

See Madison, WI salary details

$10

$24

$45

How much do chef positions jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef positions in Madison, WI is $24.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chef position?

Chef positions refer to the various roles that exist in a professional kitchen, each with specific duties and responsibilities. Common chef positions include Executive Chef (or Head Chef), Sous Chef, Pastry Chef, and Line Cook, among others. The Executive Chef oversees the entire kitchen, menu planning, and staff management, while Sous Chefs assist in running kitchen operations. Pastry Chefs specialize in desserts and baked goods, and Line Cooks prepare specific dishes or components. Each position is essential for the smooth operation and success of a restaurant or culinary establishment.

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

To thrive as a Chef, you need a strong background in culinary techniques, food safety, menu planning, and often formal culinary education or certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Creativity, leadership, time management, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality dishes, efficient kitchen operations, and a positive dining experience for guests.

What are some common challenges chefs face when working in a fast-paced kitchen environment?

Chefs in fast-paced kitchens often encounter challenges such as managing time-sensitive tasks, coordinating with team members under pressure, and maintaining high standards of food quality during peak service hours. Effective communication and multitasking are crucial to ensure smooth operations and prevent service delays. Additionally, chefs must adapt quickly to last-minute menu changes or unexpected supply shortages, which requires flexibility and problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Chef Positions vs Cook Positions?

AspectChef PositionsCook Positions
Required CredentialsOften culinary certifications or degrees, extensive experienceLess formal training, on-the-job experience common
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, high-pressure settingsVaries from restaurants to catering, generally less complex
Employer & Industry UsageHotels, fine dining, culinary establishmentsRestaurants, cafeterias, fast food outlets
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for advanced culinary roles, leadershipEntry-level, basic cooking roles

Chef positions typically require formal culinary training and involve leadership responsibilities in professional kitchens. Cook positions are more focused on executing recipes and assisting in food preparation, often with less formal education. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles matching their skills and career goals.

What are popular job titles related to Chef Positions jobs in Madison, WI?

For Chef Positions jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chef Positions jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Chef Positions jobs in Madison, WI are:

Chef Positions jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chef Positions job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,616 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Executive Chef

American Cruise Lines

Mcfarland, WI • On-site

$66K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 hours ago

Job description

Executive Chef

American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing immersive travel, exceptional service, and world-class cuisine while sharing America’s story on the finest ships in America. We offer over 50 itineraries across America's breathtaking waterways, including New England, the Southeast, the Mississippi River, the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, Great Lakes, and more.

We believe every meal should be a memorable event. That’s why we’re searching for talented, driven Executive Chefs to join our shipboard team for the 2026 cruising season. If you're ready to lead a high-performing galley crew, craft regionally inspired dishes, and provide exceptional guest service, all while traveling the country, this is the opportunity of a lifetime.

As Executive Chef, you’ll be responsible for delivering an unforgettable culinary experience—planning, preparing, and presenting elevated cuisine that reflects the flavors of each region we visit. You’ll mentor and lead your team with professionalism and passion, ensuring every dish meets our high standards of taste and presentation. We're seeking chefs who are not only technically skilled but also natural leaders who thrive in fast-paced, team-oriented environments. This is a dynamic, rewarding role for those who want to reach beyond the four walls of a traditional kitchen.

At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.

Responsibilities:

  • Leading all meal preparation for both guests and crew onboard.
  • Executing regionally inspired menus using fresh, local ingredients.
  • Coaching and managing a galley team of 6-10 in a hands-on environment.
  • Ensuring kitchen operations meet FDA, sanitation, and safety standards.
  • Overseeing food inventory, portion control, and waste reduction.
  • Adapting quickly to last-minute changes while maintaining a calm, can-do approach.
  • Providing an unforgettable dining experience for every guest.

Qualifications:

  • 6–8+ years’ experience in full-service resorts, hotels, country clubs, or banquet settings.
  • ServSafe Manager Certification strongly preferred.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and training abilities.
  • Proven knowledge of FDA food safety standards and kitchen best practices.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
  • A hands-on, collaborative, and detail-oriented approach to kitchen leadership.
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug test and background check.
  • TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) is required.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Work Schedule:

  • 7 Days per week while onboard the ship.
  • 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard the ship / 1 to 2 weeks off.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.

Essential Functions:

  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to speak, read, and understand basic cooking recipes and adhere to directions.
  • Ability to multi-task, take direction, and be a team player.
  • Ability to work with composure under pressure.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20” diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Jobs sites across the nation.
**This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

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