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Chef Jobs in Brunswick, ME (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Cape Elizabeth, ME · On-site

$52 - $74/hr

The Sous Chef is responsible for the preparation of high quality meals in accordance with company standards, menu specifications and production schedules set forth by the Executive Chef; and ...

New

Sous Chef

Cape Elizabeth, ME · On-site

$60 - $82/hr

The Sous Chef is responsible for the preparation of high quality meals in accordance with company standards, menu specifications and production schedules set forth by the Executive Chef; and ...

New

Sous Chef

Cape Elizabeth, ME · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

The Sous Chef is responsible for the preparation of high quality meals in accordance with company standards, menu specifications and production schedules set forth by the Executive Chef; and ...

Sous Chef

Cape Elizabeth, ME · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

The Sous Chef is responsible for the preparation of high quality meals in accordance with company standards, menu specifications and production schedules set forth by the Executive Chef; and ...

New

Sous Chef

Portland, ME · On-site

$61K - $71K/yr

The Sous Chef assists with overseeing a kitchen with difficult to complex operations and managing the kitchen's food and production processes. This position participates in the preparation, seasoning ...

Sous Chef

Portland, ME · On-site

$61K - $71K/yr

The Sous Chef assists with overseeing a kitchen with difficult to complex operations and managing the kitchen's food and production processes. This position participates in the preparation, seasoning ...

Chef Manager - Damariscotta, ME Salary: $60,000-$65,000 Think Fresh! Lead with Excellence! An industry leading hospitality food service group, Unidine is driven by its exceptional people sharing ...

New

Cook/Chef, Full time

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Description Position at Sunnybrook Chef / Cook Full time Must be available days, early evenings and weekends, 32-40 hours per week. Where Talent Meets Heartfelt Hospitality Why Join Our Culinary ...

Cook/Chef, Full time

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Chef / Cook Full time Must be available days, early evenings and weekends, 32-40 hours per week. Where Talent Meets Heartfelt Hospitality Why Join Our Culinary Family: We care about our team and ...

Cook Chef

Lewiston, ME · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Cook With Chef experience 20 hours a week. Job Summary: The Cook/Chef will oversee kitchen operations, create an innovative menu, and prepare or coordinate the preparation of food for teaching ...

Cook Chef

Lewiston, ME

$15 - $20/hr

Cook With Chef experience 20 hours a week. Job Summary: The Cook/Chef will oversee kitchen operations, create an innovative menu, and prepare or coordinate the preparation of food for teaching ...

Directly oversee two Sous Chefs and team of hospitality workers, to include hiring, scheduling, coaching, and retention * Establish a positive, encouraging, professional work environment based on ...

Chef de Cuisine

Portland, ME · On-site

$25K/mo

Directly oversee two Sous Chefs and team of hospitality workers, to include hiring, scheduling, coaching, and retention * Establish a positive, encouraging, professional work environment based on ...

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Food Programs Sous Chef to support our Food Programs by preparing high-quality meals that advance our mission and serve our community with dignity and ...

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Food Programs Sous Chef to support our Food Programs by preparing high-quality meals that advance our mission and serve our community with dignity and ...

CDC

Portland, ME

$90K - $100K/yr

Chef de Cuisine The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection | Portland, Maine | Full time, salaried We are hiring a Chef de Cuisine to run our kitchen. The scope is a full hotel operation off one line: a ...

Showing results 21-40

Chef information

See Brunswick, ME salary details

$10

$25

$45

How much do chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef in Brunswick, ME is $25.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $31.63 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 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 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.

Is 25 too late to become a chef?

Becoming a chef at 25 is not too late, as many chefs start their careers in their twenties or later. Success in the culinary industry depends on skills, training, and experience, which can be gained through culinary schools, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training at any age.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Brunswick, ME?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Brunswick, ME are:

What cities near Brunswick, ME are hiring for Chef jobs?

Cities near Brunswick, ME with the most Chef job openings:

Infographic showing various Chef job openings in Brunswick, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,223 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Sous Chef

Inn-By-the-Sea-1

Cape Elizabeth, ME • On-site

$52 - $74/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Oversee food preparation and cooking activities to ensure dishes meet established recipes, portion sizes, and quality standards, while following food safety and sanitation guidelines.

  • Supervise and assist kitchen staff in culinary tasks such as chopping, slicing, marinating, sautéing, grilling, roasting, and baking to ensure consistency and quality.

  • Coordinate and manage kitchen operations including ordering, inventory management, production scheduling, and equipment maintenance to ensure efficient workflow.


Job description

We’re more than just a team – we’re a community dedicated to making a difference every day.

At Olympia Hospitality, we create a fun, supportive environment where growth never stops, and success is celebrated together. Guided by our values of continuous improvement, accountability, concern for others, and trust, we foster a culture of collaboration and integrity. If you’re passionate, driven, and ready to thrive, we’d love to have you on our team.

The Sous Chef is responsible for the preparation of high quality meals in accordance with company standards, menu specifications and production schedules set forth by the Executive Chef; and maintaining and adhering to the health and food safety program at all times per state and federal regulations. This position oversees kitchen staff in the preparation/production of all meal periods.

Join a Team that Puts Your Well-Being First!

At Olympia Hospitality, we believe in supporting our employees both in and out of the workplace. When you join us, you’re not just getting a job – you’re joining a family-first organization that cares about your health and wellness, your future, and your overall satisfaction.

Here’s how we show our commitment:

  • Health Coverage That Works for You: We contribute up to 80% toward individual health plans and offer affordable dental and vision insurance. Plus, with FSA and HSA options, you can plan for your healthcare costs your way.
  • Secure Your Future: With our 401K plan and discretionary yearly match, you can build the financial future you deserve.
  • Peace of Mind: We provide paid group term life insurance for select positions, 50% shared cost short-term disability, and you have the option to purchase additional employee paid life insurance.
  • Time for You: Enjoy our robust PTO plan and 7 paid holidays to maintain work-life balance. Need quick access to your paycheck? Our earned wage access program has you covered!
  • Additional Support: From our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to a sober support network, and our commitment to being a recovery-friendly workplace, we're here to help you thrive personally and professionally.
  • Perks: Love to travel? Enjoy exclusive hotel travel discounts as a member of our team. Additional benefits may be available based on property specific locations!

We’re more than just a business—we’re a values-driven organization that believes in creating an environment where every team member can thrive. Our core values guide everything we do, from how we interact with each other to how we serve our guests and community. Join us at Olympia Hospitality and take the next step toward a fulfilling, balanced, and supported career.

Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with the Executive Chef to develop innovative and seasonal menus that showcase the restaurant's culinary expertise and creativity, incorporating fresh, locally sourced ingredients and international flavors.
  • Contribute to menu planning and recipe development, including creating and testing new dishes, specials, and tasting menus, and ensuring that all menu items meet quality and cost standards.
  • Oversee food preparation and cooking activities, ensuring that dishes are prepared according to established recipes, portion sizes, and quality standards, and that food safety and sanitation guidelines are followed at all times.
  • Supervise and assist kitchen staff in various culinary tasks, including chopping, slicing, dicing, marinating, sautéing, grilling, roasting, and baking, to ensure consistency and excellence in food presentation and taste.
  • Coordinate and manage kitchen operations, including ordering and inventory management, production scheduling, and equipment maintenance, to ensure smooth and efficient workflow and minimize waste and downtime.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment at all times, including workstations, storage areas, and equipment, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and food handling procedures.
  • Train, mentor, and supervise kitchen staff, including cooks, line cooks, and prep cooks, providing guidance, feedback, and coaching to enhance their culinary skills, teamwork, and performance.
  • Conduct regular training sessions and workshops on culinary techniques, menu items, and food safety practices, and ensure that all kitchen staff are properly trained and certified in food handling and safety procedures.
  • Monitor food quality, presentation, and taste, and conduct regular taste tests and quality checks to ensure that all dishes meet the restaurant's standards of excellence and guest expectations.
Technical Skills
  • Must have strong Culinary/cooking skills - skilled in different styles of cooking
  • Food cost analysis, i.e., knowledge of food ordering, inventories, labor control
  • Thorough knowledge and understanding of kitchen equipment use and operation
  • Knife skills, grill, broiler, sauté and Expediter skills; garde manger experience
  • Financial understanding in food costs and minimizing waste in the kitchen
Experience / Education

Minimum 2 years’ of high volume kitchen management; catering/banquet experience, management or previous supervisory experience in food and beverage operations preferred; Culinary degree desirable or equivalent combination of education and work; previous experience with employee coaching and counselling as well as documentation; experience with documenting and enforcing food safety procedures and workplace safety procedures, as well as purchasing, receiving and inventory control. Serve Safe Certification and Allergy Awareness Training strongly preferred

The Olympia Companies is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to qualified applicants without regard to such characteristics as race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status or any other factor protected by applicable law.

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