ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Chefs Assistant Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Mcfarland, WI · On-site

While living onboard, our chefs enjoy comfortable living quarters and a challenging culinary ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Heritage Senior Living

Culinary Assistant

Middleton, WI · On-site

What You'll Do Reporting to the Executive Chef and working closely with the culinary team, you'll assist with food preparation, meal service, kitchen operations, and maintaining a clean and welcoming ...

New

Oakwood Village

Sous Chef (West Madison)

Madison, WI

$50K - $68K/yr

POSITION OVERVIEW The Sous Chef position reports to the Executive Chef and is responsible for ... May assist with menu writing and cycle of cost control utilizing appropriate recipes and costing ...

Prairie Ridge Health

Station Chef - PRN

Columbus, WI · On-site

... Assistant Sous Chef. The Station Chef demonstrates a high level of execution of all required processes and procedures in the department and assures that all other team members are meeting ...

Oakwood Village

Sous Chef (West Madison)

Madison, WI · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

POSITION OVERVIEW The Sous Chef position reports to the Executive Chef and is responsible for ... May assist with menu writing and cycle of cost control utilizing appropriate recipes and costing ...

Mainstreet Ventures

Restaurant Sous Chef

Madison, WI · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

In this KM role, you will manage restaurant back of house / kitchen teams along with assistant manager roles and duties working as a member of the restaurant management team. Sous Chef or Culinary ...

One Prime Steakhouse

Restaurant Sous Chef

Madison, WI · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

In this KM role, you will manage restaurant back of house / kitchen teams along with assistant manager roles and duties working as a member of the restaurant management team. Sous Chef or Culinary ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Mcfarland, WI · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Our Sous Chefs are involved with all aspects of food production including breakfast, lunch, and ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Delaware North

Executive Chef

Madison, WI

$81K - $110K/yr

The Chef de Cuisine will lead daily culinary operations and game-day execution for the all ... * Assist with hiring, onboarding, training, and performance management for culinary team members

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

Mcfarland, WI

$66K - $92K/yr

We're seeking chefs who are not only technically skilled but also natural leaders who thrive in ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Executive Sous Chef

Mcfarland, WI · On-site

$60K - $77K/yr

Our Executive Sous Chefs are involved with all aspects of food production including breakfast ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Oakwood Village

Sous Chef (East Madison)

Madison, WI

$49K - $67K/yr

POSITION OVERVIEW The Sous Chef position reports to the Executive Chef and is responsible for ... Operations * Assist in maintaining vendor relationships. * Inspects supplies, equipment, or work ...

Buck & Honeys

Sous Chef/Kitchen Manager

Mount Horeb, WI · On-site

$62K - $67K/yr

Head Chef, Corporate Executive Chef Classification: Full-Time, Exempt Position Summary Buck & Honey ... Promote teamwork, urgency, accountability, and a positive kitchen culture * Assist with scheduling ...

Oakwood Village

Sous Chef (East Madison)

Madison, WI · On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

POSITION OVERVIEW The Sous Chef position reports to the Executive Chef and is responsible for ... Operations * Assist in maintaining vendor relationships. * Inspects supplies, equipment, or work ...

Buckandhoneys

Sous Chef/Kitchen Manager

Monona, WI · On-site

$58.50 - $71.50/hr

This role works closely with the chefs and kitchen team to oversee expo operations, maintain sanitation standards, assist with food preparation for events and parties, manage inventory and ordering ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsChefs JobsChefs Assistant JobsChefs Assistant Jobs in Madison, WI

Chefs Assistant information

See Madison, WI salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do chefs assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for chefs assistant in Madison, WI is $19.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $21.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chefs assistant?

Chefs Assistants, also known as kitchen assistants or commis chefs, support chefs in the preparation and cooking of food in professional kitchens. Their duties often include washing, peeling, and chopping ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, organizing kitchen tools, and sometimes helping with basic cooking tasks. Chefs Assistants are crucial for ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently. They often learn essential culinary skills on the job, making this role a common entry point for those interested in a culinary career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chefs assistant?

To thrive as a Chef's Assistant, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or culinary coursework. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, organized, and high-quality food preparation, supporting the kitchen's smooth operation.

What are some common challenges faced by a chefs assistant, and how can they be effectively managed?

As a Chef's Assistant, you may encounter challenges such as working under tight time constraints, adapting to fast-paced kitchen environments, and maintaining consistent food quality. Effective communication with chefs and team members is essential to ensure smooth workflow and prevent errors. Staying organized, being proactive, and continuously learning kitchen procedures can help you manage these challenges successfully while developing valuable culinary skills.

What is the difference between Chefs Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectChefs AssistantKitchen Helper
Required CredentialsBasic culinary knowledge, sometimes certificationsMinimal qualifications, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, assisting chefsSupport roles in kitchens, general cleaning and prep
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesFood service establishments, cafeterias
Search & Comparison IntentRoles assisting chefs with food prep and organizationSupport staff helping in kitchen tasks

Chefs Assistants typically have some culinary knowledge and work closely with professional chefs in busy kitchen environments. Kitchen Helpers usually perform basic support tasks like cleaning and prep, often with minimal qualifications. Both roles are essential in food service settings but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What is the average salary of a chef's assistant?

The average salary of a chef's assistant typically ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those working in high-end kitchens can earn more. The role often requires basic culinary skills and the ability to follow instructions in a fast-paced environment.

What are popular job titles related to Chefs Assistant jobs in Madison, WI?

For Chefs Assistant jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chefs Assistant jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Chefs Assistant jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Chefs Assistant jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Chefs Assistant job openings:

Chefs Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chefs Assistant job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,898 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Pastry Chef

American Cruise Lines

Mcfarland, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 4 hours ago

Job description

Pastry Chef
American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, is seeking talented Pastry Chefs to join our team for the 2026 season. Our modern riverboats and iconic paddlewheelers carry no more than 200 guests, providing a uniquely intimate small-ship experience along America’s rivers. With newly constructed vessels continually joining our expanding fleet, this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to exceptional culinary experiences nationwide.
The Pastry Chef should have the culinary expertise and experience to make a wide variety of desserts and baked goods, including confectionary work. They must be able to understand and appreciate the subtleties of flavor pairings and different tastes, as well as have a good aesthetic sense for food and pastry presentation. This position is responsible for adhering to the daily menu matrix consisting of desserts, pastries, breads and other duties assigned by the Executive Chef. The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert and baking recipes to ensure that each guest and crew have an exceptional dining experience. While living onboard, our chefs enjoy comfortable living quarters and a challenging culinary working environment. Our galleys are well equipped with a spectacular view.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel each day.
  • Prepare and serve items in accordance with established procedures, recipes, portion size, and presentation standards.
  • Set-up, maintain, and breaks down station according to FDA Standards.
  • Taste all products produced to assess quality.
  • Notify the Executive Chef of any product shortages or equipment maintenance issues.
  • Maintain accurate counts on all food items prepared to prevent discrepancies between amount of food needed and food prepared.
  • Schedule the production of all baked goods.
  • Always maintain an inventory of fresh baked goods.
  • Use food production equipment according to manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Maintain a professional appearance at all times.
  • Ensure that each guest has a positive and memorable experience.
Qualifications:
  • An Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts or pastry amp; baking, and/or 3-5 years of experience with an emphasis on quality production.
  • Basic understanding of professional baking and pastries and food amp; beverage knowledge.
  • Problem solving skills, organization skills, and self-motivation.
  • Commitment to quality service.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.
  • Must complete a criminal background check.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Work Schedule:
  • 7 days per week while onboard the ship.
  • 6-8 weeks working with 2 weeks of unpaid vacation.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to adapt and adjust daily to last-minute requests or changes.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a team environment.
  • Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20” diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Job sites across the nation.
**This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

Apply