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Chef Jobs in Portland, MI (NOW HIRING)

Executive Sous Chef- Lansing Center

Lansing, MI · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Executive Sous Chef DEPARTMENT: Food and Beverage REPORTS TO: Director of Food & Beverage/Assistant General Manager FLSA STATUS: Salaried, Exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner ...

Welder/Fabricator

Caledonia, MI · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Caledonia, MI (Kent County -- approx. 15 minutes from Grand Rapids, Cascade, and Byron Center) Company: Koch Finishing Systems Koch Finishing Systems is a custom engineering and fabrication company ...

Field Control Technician

Caledonia, MI · Remote

$110K - $140K/yr

S.-based -- must reside within 1 hour of a major or regional airport Build a Career That Travels With You At Koch Finishing Systems, we design and deliver innovative surface finishing solutions used ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Caledonia, MI · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer - Custom Automation Equipment Koch Finishing Systems | Caledonia, MI (Grand Rapids Area) | Full-Time Koch Finishing Systems is seeking an experienced Mechanical Design ...

Chef - KFC (New)

Saint Johns, MI · On-site

$11.25 - $14.50/hr

Fundraisers and volunteer programs As a Chef, you will be responsible for: * Using the correct tools to prepare, cook and present our products * Serving food that meets our quality and safety ...

Chef - KFC (New)

Saint Johns, MI · On-site

$11.25 - $14.50/hr

Fundraisers and volunteer programs As a Chef, you will be responsible for: * Using the correct tools to prepare, cook and present our products * Serving food that meets our quality and safety ...

Mechanical Engineer

Caledonia, MI · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Mechanical Engineer - Custom Automation & Capital Equipment Koch Finishing Systems | Caledonia, MI (Grand Rapids Area) | Full-Time Koch Finishing Systems is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer ...

Chef Manager Oliver Woods Assisted Living POSITION SUMMARY Responsible for managing overall community dining operations and experience, as well as leading by example with regard to customer service ...

Line Cook

Lansing, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

Line Cook

Lansing, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

Line Cook

Lansing, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

Showing results 21-40

Chef information

See Portland, MI salary details

$8

$20

$36

How much do chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef in Portland, MI is $20.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $25.53 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 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 Portland, MI?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Portland, MI are:

What cities near Portland, MI are hiring for Chef jobs?

Cities near Portland, MI with the most Chef job openings:

Infographic showing various Chef job openings in Portland, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,167 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Executive Sous Chef- Lansing Center

AEG

Lansing, MI • On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

In order to be considered for this role, after clicking "Apply Now" above and being redirected, you must fully complete the application process on the follow-up screen.
POSITION: Executive Sous Chef
DEPARTMENT: Food and Beverage
REPORTS TO: Director of Food & Beverage/Assistant General Manager
FLSA STATUS: Salaried, Exempt
LEGENDS GLOBAL
Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands. We deliver a fully integrated solution of premium services that keeps our partners front and center through our white-label approach.
Our network of 450 venues worldwide, hosting 20,000 events and entertaining 165 million guests each year, is powered by our depth of expertise and level of execution across every component - feasibility & consulting, owner's representation, sales, partnerships, hospitality, merchandise, venue management, and content & booking - of world-class live events and venues.
The Legends Global culture is one of respect, ambitious thinking, collaboration, and bold action. We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone can be authentic, make an impact, and grow their career.
Winning is an everyday thing at Legends Global. We have the best team members who understand every win is earned when we come together as one unified team. Sound like a winning formula for you? Join us!
THE ROLE
Responsible for managing/overseeing production, operation, and sanitation aspects of all culinary and stewarding operations throughout Facility. The Executive Sous Chef will report to the Director of Food and Beverage.
ESSENTIAL DUTES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • People and products focused hands-on management of day-to-day operations of all food outlet kitchens. Implements and enforces all departmental and organizational policies and procedures. Assure staff compliance with all standards, policies and procedures.
  • Managing associates utilizing Sous Chefs and Lead Cooks through planning and scheduling of work assignments and performance development. Administers corrective counseling process, training and development, appraisals, payroll accountability.
  • Plan innovative menus, maintaining financial responsibility for the menu mix. Analyze menu and food costs and the preparation of cost and quality efficient menus/specials. Prepare reports regarding food and menu analysis.
  • Prepare cost-saving annual budgets and ensure all fiscal responsibilities are met.
  • Oversees inventory management to ensure all outlets are adequately supplied at all times. Performs periodic inventory. Requisitioning and purchasing. Maintains effective vendor relationships.
  • Oversee the sanitation standards of all kitchens to assure compliance with local health department standards and company standards.
  • Direct interaction with high level clients
  • Be able to step in as the executive chef when needed.
  • Perform related duties as assigned by Management

QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty with energy and enthusiasm. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
  • The ideal team member will have a degree or certification from an accredited culinary arts institute, or apprenticeship certification from the American Culinary Federation.
  • At least three (3) to five (5) years of experience as an executive sous chef in a high-volume food industry.
  • Proven track record in improving kitchen efficiencies, quality, food and labor costs.
  • Must have excellent managerial, financial analysis, team building and communication skills/customer service.
  • Must have knowledge of kitchen sanitation, operation and maintenance of kitchen equipment.
  • Must be detail-oriented and extremely organized with the ability to learn new programs and procedures quickly.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Must be flexible to work extended hours due to business requirements including nights, weekends and holidays.
  • Must be open to providing incidental or short-term support to other facilities in the event of a business emergency.
  • Travel may be required.

COMPENSATION
Competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid vacation, and 401k plan.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Location: On Site or Remote (Lansing Center Complex Lansing, Michigan)
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
NOTE:
The essential responsibilities of this position are described under the headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. Also, this document in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.
Legends Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and encourages Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and protected Veterans to apply. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

AEG logo

About AEG

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1992