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Complex Executive Chef Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus ... Experience leading high-volume and complex foodservice operations. * Strong catering and special ...

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus ... Experience leading high-volume and complex foodservice operations. * Strong catering and special ...

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus ... Experience leading high-volume and complex foodservice operations. * Strong catering and special ...

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus ... Experience leading high-volume and complex foodservice operations. * Strong catering and special ...

Senior Executive Chef

College Park, MD · On-site

$110K - $132K/yr

Senior Executive ChefSkip to main content#Senior Executive Chef page is loaded## Senior Executive ... other complex multi-unit food service environments.* Experience leading sustainability, local ...

The Senior Executive Chef provides strategic culinary leadership for Dining Services by overseeing ... other complex multi-unit food service environments. * Experience leading sustainability, local ...

Executive Chef

Bowie, MD

$69K - $95K/yr

Provide direct supervision, coaching, and performance management for Sous Chefs, Line Cooks, and ... Ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex problems. * Ability to be proactive, take direction ...

Executive Chef

Bowie, MD · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

... for Sous Chefs, Line Cooks, and Utility Workers. • Partners with various departments to align ... Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities • Ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex problems ...

... for Sous Chefs, Line Cooks, and Utility Workers. • Partners with various departments to align ... Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities • Ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex problems ...

Food Service Executive Chef

Mclean, VA · On-site

$72K - $99K/yr

As the Food Service Executive Chef ,you will manage menu creation, all food preparations, kitchen ... and complex challenges. Intrepid Acquisition Holdings, LLC. ("IAH" and/or "Company") and its ...

Executive Sous Chef

Manassas, VA · On-site

$70K - $72K/yr

Executive Sous Chef 7 days ago Requisition ID: 1083 Salary Range: $70,000.00 To $72,000.00 Annually ... High volume, complex foodservice operations experience - highly desirable * ServSafe certification ...

New

Sodexo is seeking a Campus Executive Chef 4 for a multi-unit Washington, DC campus account. This is ... Lead culinary operations at scale, supporting diverse teams across complex, high- volume accounts.

Sodexo is seeking a Campus Executive Chef 4 for a multi-unit Washington, DC campus account. This is ... Lead culinary operations at scale, supporting diverse teams across complex, high- volume accounts.

Sodexo is seeking a Campus Executive Chef 4 for a multi-unit Washington, DC campus account. This is ... Lead culinary operations at scale, supporting diverse teams across complex, high- volume accounts.

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Showing results 1-20

Complex Executive Chef information

What is a complex executive chef?

A Complex Executive Chef is a senior culinary professional responsible for overseeing the kitchen operations of multiple restaurants, outlets, or properties within a hospitality group or hotel complex. They manage menu development, food quality, staff training, and budget control across all assigned locations. This role requires strong leadership skills, creativity, and the ability to coordinate large teams to deliver consistent culinary experiences. Complex Executive Chefs also ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and often participate in strategic planning for food and beverage services.

How does a complex executive chef typically collaborate with other department heads in a multi-venue hospitality environment?

A Complex Executive Chef often works closely with other department heads, such as Food & Beverage Managers, Banquet Directors, and Catering Sales Managers, to ensure seamless coordination across multiple kitchens or dining venues. This collaboration involves regular meetings to plan menus, discuss event requirements, align on budget constraints, and coordinate staffing needs. Effective communication is essential to maintain consistency in food quality, guest experience, and operational efficiency throughout all outlets. By fostering strong interdepartmental relationships, the Complex Executive Chef helps drive both culinary excellence and overall business success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a complex executive chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Complex Executive Chef, you need advanced culinary expertise, strong kitchen management experience, and formal culinary education or certification. Familiarity with inventory management systems, menu planning software, and food safety certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Leadership, creativity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for leading diverse teams and delivering high-quality dining experiences. These capabilities ensure operational excellence, consistent food quality, and guest satisfaction in multi-outlet or high-volume culinary environments.

What is the difference between Complex Executive Chef vs Executive Chef?

AspectComplex Executive ChefExecutive Chef
CredentialsTypically requires culinary degree and extensive experienceSame as Complex Executive Chef, often with additional certifications
Work EnvironmentManages multiple restaurants or large culinary operationsManages a single restaurant or culinary unit
Industry UsageCommon in large hotel groups, resorts, or multi-unit operationsFound in standalone restaurants or smaller establishments
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for in multi-unit hospitality contextsMore common in individual restaurant settings

The main difference between a Complex Executive Chef and an Executive Chef lies in the scope of responsibilities. A Complex Executive Chef oversees multiple culinary outlets or large-scale operations, requiring broader management skills. An Executive Chef typically manages a single restaurant or kitchen. Both roles demand similar credentials and experience, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Complex Executive Chef jobs in Washington?

For Complex Executive Chef jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Complex Executive Chef jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Complex Executive Chef jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Complex Executive Chef job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA • On-site

Restaurant Associates
Food Services and Drinking Places • 10K+ employees

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Restaurant Associates rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 240 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position Title: Executive Chef 

Salary: $85,000 - $95,000

Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus Opportunity (Up to 20% of Base Salary) 

Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry’s leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and corporations! Voted Glassdoor's Employee Choice AwardsBest Places to Work, This is R/A !

Job Summary
Restaurant Associates is seeking an experienced, hospitality-focused Executive Chef to lead culinary operations at our premier corporate dining account with CoStar Group. This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on culinary leader who is passionate about food, hospitality, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
 
The Executive Chef will oversee a high-volume café, as well as catering and coffee bar operations. Beyond culinary excellence, this role requires a visible and engaging leader who enjoys interacting with guests, building client relationships, and creating memorable dining experiences.
 
The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic corporate environment, balancing day-to-day operations with elevated hospitality standards and executive-level events. This role offers significant visibility with senior leadership at CoStar, including support for executive gatherings and events hosted by the CEO. The Executive Chef should be comfortable operating in a client-facing environment, engaging with guests, and delivering elevated hospitality experiences.
 
While the primary schedule is Monday through Friday, flexibility is important as occasional evening and after-hours events are a regular part of the operation. Success in this role requires a hospitality-first mindset, executive presence, and a willingness to step beyond the kitchen to help create memorable experiences for employees, clients, and leadership.
 
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead all culinary operations for a high-volume corporate dining program.
  • Oversee daily café service, catering operations, and coffee bar offerings.
  • Plan regular and modified menus in accordance with client expectations, company standards, and culinary trends.
  • Ensure consistent quality, presentation, portion control, and execution of all food offerings.
  • Follow and enforce standardized recipes, production procedures, and food presentation standards.
  • Complete and utilize production worksheets and waste logs to support operational efficiency.
  • Taste completed meals and monitor quality throughout service.
  • Maintain a hands-on leadership presence in both kitchen and guest-facing environments.
  • Partner closely with client leadership and onsite teams to deliver an exceptional hospitality experience.
  • Support executive functions, VIP receptions, and CEO-hosted events, including occasional evening engagements.
  • Train, coach, and develop culinary team members on food preparation, equipment usage, food safety, sanitation, and company standards.
  • Establish and maintain cleaning, maintenance, and sanitation schedules for kitchen equipment, storage areas, and workspaces.
  • Manage food and non-food inventories while maintaining financial and operational objectives.
  • Monitor food safety, sanitation, maintenance, and compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
  • Utilize inventory controls, waste reduction strategies, and production planning tools to drive operational excellence.
  • Participate in client engagement initiatives, satisfaction programs, department meetings, and professional development opportunities.
What We're Looking For
  • Associate degree in Culinary Arts or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Progressive culinary leadership experience in corporate dining, restaurants, hospitality, hotels, or catering environments.
  • Experience leading high-volume and complex foodservice operations.
  • Strong catering and special event execution experience.
  • Institutional or batch cooking experience is a plus.
  • Demonstrated success developing and leading culinary teams.
  • Hands-on chef experience with a commitment to food quality and innovation.
  • Knowledge of food trends, menu planning, cost controls, sanitation, and production management.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, Outlook, email, and related business technology tools.
  • ServSafe Certification preferred.
  • Experience participating in client satisfaction and hospitality-focused initiatives.

Apply to Restaurant Associates today!

Restaurant Associates is a member of Compass Group USA

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

  

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Associates at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Restaurant Associates maintains a drug-free workplace.

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_RA.pdf

Req ID:  1559758

Restaurant Associates 

Michael Abbey 

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What Restaurant Associates employees say

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About Restaurant Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A chef-driven company with a mission to deliver hospitality excellence. Since the very beginning, we’ve delivered culinary quality and innovation coupled with unparalleled hospitality to some of the most recognizable companies, institutions, and brands in the world. At R/A, food is inspiration. Our reputation is built on our ability to continuously evolve and innovate. Our work goes beyond the excellence of our food and hospitality. It extends to industry-best wellness and sustainability practices and a commitment to integrating human-centered technology.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US