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Chef Jobs in Brunswick, ME (NOW HIRING)

AM Breakfast Cook

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$22.25 - $28/hr

Our Line Chefs work closely with Executive Chef/Sous Chef to help guarantee our guests a dining experience which exceeds their expectations. SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: * Ensure that all mise ...

Cook

Lewiston, ME · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Prepare and present DELICIOUS meals and IMPRESSIVE presentations following our Executive Chef Menus. Ability to inventory and portion ingredients. Additionally, assist in kitchen to include prep ...

Maintain communication with Head Chef and other coworkers * Abide by dress code applicable to food safety Requirements * Maintain a positive attitude and cooperative work environment * Always stay ...

Showing results 41-60

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/Kitchen Production

Terra Cotta Pasta Co Inc

South Portland, ME • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Paid time off
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Employee discounts
  • Flexible schedule

Company Overview

Terra Cotta Pasta Co is a locally owned food manufacturing company that has been delighting customers for over 30 years with our homemade pasta, ravioli, sauces, and a variety of delicious in house prepared food items. Our commitment to quality and flavor is evident in the products we offer, making us a beloved choice in the community.
Summary

As a Kitchen Production Associate at Terra Cotta Pasta Co, you will be an integral part of our food production team within a fast paced environment. This role is essential for ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality while contributing to the creation of our delicious products.
Responsibilities

  • Learn and prepare from scratch recipes of all in house prepared products weighing, labeling and merchandising of those items.
  • Ensure all food safety protocols are strictly adhered to during the production process.
  • Maintain kitchen areas for cleanliness, organization and maintenance protocols.
  • Help create and complete daily prep lists and assignments.
  • Collaborate with team members in back of house as well as front of house to optimize production efficiency.
  • Assist in product ordering, checking in items and putting away deliveries when they arrive. 
  • In your role as kitchen production associate other duties not listed my be assigned as necessary to ensure proper running of back of house operations.
  • All associates will ensure a positive company image by providing courteous, friendly and efficient service to customers as well as other store associates at all times. 
  • Must maintain a neat and clean appearance. 
  • An understanding of POS systems is a plus to support front of house staff and customers when necessary.  
Qualifications

  • Experience in food production or processing is preferred.
  • Detail oriented with a passion for food preparation.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining cleanliness and organization.
  • Excellent knife skills are required.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment and maintain a positive attitude with customers and coworkers alike.
  • Attention to detail with a focus on maintaining high-quality standards.
  • Must love pasta in all shapes and sizes. 
Benefits

  • 401K with employer match.
  • Profit sharing bonuses.
  • PTO Time.
  • Direct Primary Care Membership.
  • Employee Discounts.
  • Flexible Schedules however must be available weekends.
  • Monthly Shared Tips equivalent to $3-$4 per hour.
  • Closed on the following Holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years Day, Easter and Labor day.
If you are passionate about food production and eager to contribute to a local favorite, we invite you to apply today and join our dedicated team at Terra Cotta Pasta Co!