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Chef Jobs in Portland, MI (NOW HIRING)

Line Cooks

Williamston, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

We're searching for a qualified line cook to help prepare menu items under the guidance of our executive chef. The line cook will play a vital role in upholding our food safety and cleanliness ...

Line Cooks

Williamston, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

We're searching for a qualified line cook to help prepare menu items under the guidance of our executive chef. The line cook will play a vital role in upholding our food safety and cleanliness ...

Second Cook - Lansing Center

Lansing, MI

$14.25 - $19/hr

Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: On-Call, Non-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 ...

Second Cook - Lansing Center

Lansing, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: On-Call, Non-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 ...

Second Cook - Lansing Center

Lansing, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: On-Call, Non-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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Chef information

See Portland, MI salary details

$8

$20

$36

How much do chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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.

Restaurant Expeditor - Egypt Valley Country Club

Egypt Valley Country Club

Ada, MI • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Egypt Valley Country Club is seeking a talented and driven Restaurant Expeditor to join our culinary team. This role is critical to delivering an exceptional dining experience by ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of food from the kitchen to our members and guests.
Be part of a high-performing team in a professional, fast-paced environment with a strong culture of excellence.
Position Details:
  • Schedule: Tuesday-Sunday (nights and weekends required)
  • Pay Range: $19-$22 per hour
  • Note: This is a non-leadership position

Position Summary
The Expeditor serves as the key liaison between the Front of House (FOH) and Back of House (BOH), ensuring orders are prepared accurately, plated correctly, and delivered in a timely manner. This role is essential in maintaining quality, consistency, and communication during service.
Success Patterns
  • Previous culinary experience, preferably in an upscale dining environment
  • Ability to work nights, weekends, and a flexible schedule
  • Strong understanding of the expeditor's role as the link between FOH and BOH
  • Ability to make quick, accurate decisions under pressure
  • Maintains a clean and organized workspace
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Personal Characteristics
  • Motivated, enthusiastic, and thrives in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong desire to learn, grow, and be challenged
  • Comfortable holding both kitchen and service staff accountable
  • Demonstrates strong problem-solving skills

Performance Expectations
  • Prepare and stock the expo station for each shift
  • Act as the liaison between FOH and BOH to ensure timely, accurate order execution
  • Maintain positive working relationships across all departments
  • Communicate effectively with line cooks, kitchen supervisors, and sous chefs
  • Uphold high service standards while supporting overall restaurant operations
  • Report directly to kitchen supervisors, sous chefs, and the Executive Chef
  • Ensure all food is properly plated and trayed for efficient delivery to guests

If you're passionate about hospitality, thrive under pressure, and take pride in precision and teamwork, we'd love to hear from you.
How to Apply: Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a resume or apply online at