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Chef Jobs in Amherst, MA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Line Cook

Hampden, MA

$16 - $20/hr

Abide by prep lists set forth by chefs. * Check and maintain coolers and storage areas for cleanliness, quantity, and quality of food. * Requisition of food with necessary approvals according to ...

Line Cook

Hampden, MA · On-site

$18/hr

Abide by prep lists set forth by chefs.Check and maintain coolers and storage areas for cleanliness, quantity, and quality of food.Requisition of food with necessary approvals according to policyTake ...

Line Cook

Hampden, MA · On-site

$18/hr

Abide by prep lists set forth by chefs. * Check and maintain coolers and storage areas for cleanliness, quantity, and quality of food. * Requisition of food with necessary approvals according to ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

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:

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 Cook/AM Receiver

Greathorse

Hampden, MA • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Prep Cook/AM ReceiverGreatHorseGreatHorsePosition Summary:The Prep Cook/AM Receiver is responsible for preparing food items according to established recipes and kitchen standards while supporting the daily receiving and organization of food and supply deliveries. This position ensures ingredients are properly prepared, stored, labeled, and readily available for kitchen operations, while maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment. 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 presentation. The scheduled hours for this position is 6:00 am-2:00 pm. Please note that GreatHorse is a non-tipping facility.Job Responsibilities:Wash, peel, cut, and seed fruits and vegetables to prepare them for consumption.Prepare, butcher, and cook meat, poultry, fish, and seafood.Prepare work checklist and organize workstations for each shift/abide by prep lists set forth by chefs.Present food using proper plate presentation techniques.Coordinate completion of menu items.Check and maintain coolers and storage areas for cleanliness, quantity, and quality of food.Requisition food with necessary approvals according to policyTake proper care of ranges, ovens, boilers, fryers, griddles, utensils, and other equipment.Ensure station prep is rotated and prepared to reduce waste.Be efficient in preparing stocks, soups, sauces, sandwiches, salads, and sautéed items.Understand prep and execution.Collect, confirm, and organize daily deliveries in appropriate locations using the FIFO system.Check daily par level for ordering.Consult with Sous Chefs for daily ordering.Maintain reasonable, regular, punctual attendance consistent with Company policies, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and other federal, state, and local standards.Adapts to changing duties, as required, based on business needs.Your Skills:Previous work experience as a prep cook in a restaurant/club is a plus.Physical ability and stamina to stand for long hours.Availability to work various shifts, including weekends.Multi-tasking abilitiesGood oral communication skillsAbility to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced work environment.Have a good attitude and participate as a member of the team.Physical Demands:Listed below are key points regarding the job's environmental demands and work environment. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.Required to use motor coordination with finger dexterity most of the workday.Required to exert physical effort to manage objects over 30 pounds.Required to walk or stand for extended periods.Our StoryWe love golf, but we don't love pretentiousness. That's why GreatHorse was built around the idea of bringing together like-minded members who value an exceptional lifestyle without being bound by a long list of rules.Located in Hampden, Massachusetts, GreatHorse is a private golf club that feels more like an upscale mountain retreat. Our members enjoy world-class golf, breathtaking views, and exceptional clubhouse amenities, including luxury lodging, an outdoor pool and bar, a private spa and fitness center, golf simulators, tennis and pickleball courts, transportation services, and an award-winning restaurant and bar. Our culinary team proudly features seasonal ingredients sourced from Our Farm at GreatHorse, located just a few miles from the club.It's Different Here. Come experience the GreatHorse difference.GreatHorse, LLC EEO Statement: The Company is committed to and supports equal employment opportunity and affirmative action to all employees and applicants. Equal employment opportunity means equal treatment of employees and applicants without regard to the following legally-protected characteristics: race, color, religion, creed, sex (gender identity), pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, medical condition, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), veteran status, physical or mental disability status or any other legally-protected status.