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Chef Jobs in Amherst, MA (NOW HIRING)

Aramark

Chef de Cuisine

Springfield, MA

$70K - $75K/yr

The Aramark Chef de Cuisine at Western New England University is the lead culinary person responsible for supervising all culinary operations for a location. Compensation Data COMPENSATION: The ...

Aramark

Chef de Cuisine

Springfield, MA · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

The Aramark Chef de Cuisine at Western New England University is the lead culinary person responsible for supervising all culinary operations for a location. Compensation Data COMPENSATION: The ...

Aramark

Chef de Cuisine

Springfield, MA · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

The Aramark Chef de Cuisine at Western New England University is the lead culinary person responsible for supervising all culinary operations for a location. Compensation Data COMPENSATION: The ...

Loomis Village

Line Chef

South Hadley, MA · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

We are seeking a Line Chef to create exceptional dining experiences for our residents and guests. You'll be at the heart of our kitchen, responsible for executing a wide range of culinary tasks, from ...

Loomis Village

Line Chef

South Hadley, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

We are seeking a Line Chef to create exceptional dining experiences for our residents and guests. You'll be at the heart of our kitchen, responsible for executing a wide range of culinary tasks, from ...

Chefs' Warehouse

Driver Supervisor

Springfield, MA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

About Sid Wainer For over 100 years, Sid Wainer has been a trusted partner to chefs-delivering exceptional ingredients that inspire menus and elevate kitchens. Family-founded in 1914, Sid Wainer has ...

Berkshire East Ski Resort

Food Runner

Charlemont, MA · On-site

$16.50/hr

Act as liaison between chef and servers/bartenders-Address issues Chef might have to FOH staff-Fix mistakes on tickets by clarifying with FOH staff needs-Convey out of stock or low counts on items to ...

Berkshire East Ski Resort

Food Runner

MA · On-site

$16.50/hr

... chef and servers/bartenders -Address issues Chef might have to FOH staff -Fix mistakes on tickets by clarifying with FOH staff needs -Convey out of stock or low counts on items to ALL FOH staff 4. ...

Capital Seaboard

Driver Supervisor

Springfield, MA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

About Sid Wainer For over 100 years, Sid Wainer has been a trusted partner to chefs-delivering exceptional ingredients that inspire menus and elevate kitchens. Family-founded in 1914, Sid Wainer has ...

Greathorse

Prep Cook/AM Receiver

Hampden, MA · On-site

$22/hr

The Prep Cook/AM Receiver works closely with the Executive Chef, Sous Chefs, and kitchen team to support efficient daily operations and maintain high standards for food quality, freshness, and ...

Greathorse

Prep Cook/AM Receiver

Hampden, MA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

The Prep Cook/AM Receiver works closely with the Executive Chef, Sous Chefs, and kitchen team to support efficient daily operations and maintain high standards for food quality, freshness, and ...

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All JobsChef JobsChef Jobs in Amherst, MA

Chef information

See Amherst, MA salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef in Amherst, MA is $24.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chef do?

A chef is a professional cook who is responsible for preparing meals, developing menus, and overseeing kitchen operations in restaurants, hotels, or other food establishments. Chefs ensure food quality, safety, and presentation standards are met, and often manage other kitchen staff. Their duties may include ordering ingredients, maintaining inventory, and creating new recipes. Chefs may specialize in specific types of cuisine or cooking techniques. They play a key role in delivering a memorable dining experience.

What is the difference between Chef vs Cook?

AspectChefCook
CredentialsFormal culinary training or certifications often preferredMinimal formal training, on-the-job experience common
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, restaurants, hotelsVaries from home kitchens to restaurants, catering
Job ResponsibilitiesMenu planning, supervising kitchen staff, quality controlFood preparation, cooking, basic kitchen tasks
Industry UsageHigh-end restaurants, culinary institutionsWidespread across all food service settings

While both chefs and cooks work in kitchens and prepare food, chefs typically have formal training, oversee kitchen operations, and work in professional or upscale environments. Cooks usually focus on food preparation and cooking tasks, often with less formal education, and work in a variety of settings. The role of a chef involves leadership and menu development, whereas a cook primarily executes recipes and prepares dishes.

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 in menu development, and comprehensive knowledge of food safety standards, typically supported by culinary school training or relevant experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, recipe management software, and food hygiene certifications (such as ServSafe) is highly valuable. Exceptional organizational ability, teamwork, and leadership are critical soft skills for managing kitchen staff and maintaining a positive work environment. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality dishes efficiently, ensuring kitchen safety, and running a successful culinary operation.

What are common challenges chefs face in maintaining consistency across dishes and shifts?

Chefs often encounter challenges in ensuring that every dish meets the restaurant’s quality and presentation standards, particularly when managing a team with varying skill levels or during busy service periods. Maintaining consistency requires strong communication, standardized recipes, and rigorous training for all kitchen staff. Additionally, chefs must monitor ingredient quality and adapt quickly to supply changes, all while leading by example to uphold the restaurant’s reputation. Overcoming these challenges is key to delivering a reliable dining experience and building trust with patrons.
More about Chef jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Amherst, MA?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Amherst, MA are:

What cities near Amherst, MA are hiring for Chef jobs?

Cities near Amherst, MA with the most Chef job openings:

Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chef job openings in Amherst, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,450 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Prep Chef - Sturbridge, MA

Sturbridge Coffee House

Sturbridge, MA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

We are bringing our small town charm to Connecticut and are currently hiring for experienced FT/PT(not seasonal)Prep Chefs.  


As a Prep Chef, you will be responsible for the daily preparation and execution of our breakfast and lunch menu. You will work closely with the Head Chef to ensure all dishes meet our standards for quality and presentation while maintaining a clean, efficient workspace during busy service hours. 


Key Responsibilities 

  • Food Assembly & Quality: Prepare and oversee breakfast and lunch menu items. Maintain recipe consistency and quality following Sturbridge Coffee House standards. 
  • Food Knowledge: Maintain a thorough understanding of the menu, ingredients, and food allergens. 
  • Collaboration: Work effectively with both kitchen and front-of-house staff to ensure smooth, timely service. 
  • Cleanliness: Maintain an organized station and follow strict sanitation protocols during and after rush periods. 
  • Stocking: Assist with restocking food items, organizing deliveries, and putting supplies in their proper areas. 
  • Compliance: Follow all local and state health department regulations and safety protocols. 

Requirements & Physical Demands 

  • Must be at least 18 years of age (standard for equipment operation). 
  • Be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and/or holidays
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred. 
  • Previous kitchen, quick service or line cook experience preferred; ServSafe certification is a plus. 
  • Ability to read and speak English to understand safety instructions and interact with the team. 
  • Must be able to stand and walk for the duration of an up to 8-hour shift. Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment. 
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. 
  • Works well in a team environment


Benefits:

  • We provide a workplace free from discrimination and harassment in accordance with the Massachusetts Fair Employment Practices Act.  We also provide a positive, supporting, drama free culture. 
  • Flexible hours with two days off in a row.
  • Free meal with an 8-hour shift.


Mini Sturbridge Coffee House is a subsidiary of Sturbridge Coffee House which has grown from a small café over the last 19 years, into a bustling coffee house, with multiple Mini Sturbridge Coffee House locations.
We serve hundreds of people in the heart of Sturbridge, MA and beyond. We wouldn't be the great coffee house we are today, nor be opening additional locations, without the dedication of every employee and customer over the years.