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Culinary Chef Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Laurus Home Care

Sous Chef

Louisville, KY · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

Directly supervises all culinary staff * Assist Executive Chef in managing and training culinary and dining personnel * Supervises culinary staff regarding product quality, portion, cost controls ...

New

Gecko Hospitality

Be Seen First

Chef/Kitchen Manager

Lexington, KY · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

We are a great company for talented Culinary Professionals to make their mark! Don't miss this fresh, exciting and rewarding career opportunity as an Executive Chef in Lexington, Kentucky. Title of ...

Posted today

The Rackhouse Tavern

Sous Chef

Lexington, KY · On-site

$43K - $59K/yr

Sous Chef We are seeking a talented and motivated Sous Chef to support the Executive Chef in leading kitchen operations and delivering exceptional culinary experiences. This role includes supervising ...

The Rackhouse Tavern

Sous Chef

Lexington, KY · On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

Sous Chef We are seeking a talented and motivated Sous Chef to support the Executive Chef in leading kitchen operations and delivering exceptional culinary experiences. This role includes supervising ...

The Rackhouse Tavern

Sous Chef

Lexington, KY · On-site

$43K - $59K/yr

Sous Chef We are seeking a talented and motivated Sous Chef to support the Executive Chef in leading kitchen operations and delivering exceptional culinary experiences. This role includes supervising ...

Ditto'sGrill

SOUS CHEF

Louisville, KY

$20 - $25/hr

Sous Chef - at an upscale casual restaurant on Bardstown Road (Louisville, KY) oversees daily ... Culinary degree or formal training preferred; significant experience may substitute. * Valid Food ...

PF Changs

Executive Chef

Louisville, KY

$80K - $100K/yr

This includes the hiring, training and development of the culinary team and kitchen staff, as well as managing inventory and controlling costs incurred in the kitchen. The Executive Chef or Kitchen ...

New

The Rackhouse Tavern

Sous Chef

Lexington, KY

$43K - $59K/yr

Sous Chef We are seeking a talented and motivated Sous Chef to support the Executive Chef in leading kitchen operations and delivering exceptional culinary experiences. This role includes supervising ...

PF Changs

Executive Chef

Louisville, KY

$80K - $100K/yr

This includes the hiring, training and development of the culinary team and kitchen staff, as well as managing inventory and controlling costs incurred in the kitchen. The Executive Chef or Kitchen ...

New

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Maysville, KY · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

Exceptional cuisine is prepared by chefs who have extensive culinary credentials and training from some of the most prestigious culinary institutes. Using only the freshest ingredients, menus are ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Maysville, KY

$40K - $55K/yr

Exceptional cuisine is prepared by chefs who have extensive culinary credentials and training from some of the most prestigious culinary institutes. Using only the freshest ingredients, menus are ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Grand Rivers, KY · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

Exceptional cuisine is prepared by chefs who have extensive culinary credentials and training from some of the most prestigious culinary institutes. Using only the freshest ingredients, menus are ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Grand Rivers, KY · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

Exceptional cuisine is prepared by chefs who have extensive culinary credentials and training from some of the most prestigious culinary institutes. Using only the freshest ingredients, menus are ...

Old Chicago - Hourly

Cook

Lexington, KY

$11.75 - $16/hr

Previous kitchen / culinary / chef experience is preferred, but not required. * Experience and knowledge of kitchen equipment including but not limited to knives, slicer, mixer, stoves, ovens ...

Galt House Hotel

Sous Chef

Louisville, KY · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

Our Sous Chef will assist in directing culinary operations on a daily basis to prepare and deliver high quality menu items and lead daily kitchen operations to ensure we remain in compliance with ...

AJS Hotels

Sous Chef

Louisville, KY · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

Our Sous Chef will assist in directing culinary operations on a daily basis to prepare and deliver high quality menu items and lead daily kitchen operations to ensure we remain in compliance with ...

AJS Hotels

Sous Chef

Louisville, KY · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

Our Sous Chef will assist in directing culinary operations on a daily basis to prepare and deliver high quality menu items and lead daily kitchen operations to ensure we remain in compliance with ...

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Culinary Chef information

See Kentucky salary details

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How much do culinary chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for culinary chef in Kentucky is $15.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $16.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a culinary chef?

A Culinary Chef needs expert knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety regulations, and menu planning, often supported by a culinary arts degree or professional certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and specialized culinary tools is typically required. Creativity, time management, and leadership are crucial soft skills that help chefs excel in high-pressure kitchen environments. These skills ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality dishes, efficient kitchen operations, and effective team coordination.

What are some common challenges culinary chefs face when managing a kitchen team?

Culinary Chefs often encounter challenges such as coordinating a diverse team with varying skill levels, handling high-pressure situations during peak service hours, and ensuring consistent quality across all dishes. Effective communication and leadership are essential to delegate tasks, resolve conflicts, and maintain a positive work environment. Successful chefs also need to adapt quickly to last-minute changes, such as special dietary requests or ingredient shortages, all while upholding safety and sanitation standards.

What is the difference between Culinary Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectCulinary ChefLine Cook
CredentialsFormal culinary training or certification often preferredBasic culinary skills, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentKitchen management, menu planning, overseeing kitchen staffPreparing specific dishes on the kitchen line
Industry UsageLeads kitchen operations, develops recipesExecutes dishes as per instructions
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in culinary settingsLearning about entry-level or specialized kitchen positions

The main difference between a Culinary Chef and a Line Cook is that a Culinary Chef typically has leadership responsibilities, menu planning, and more extensive culinary training, while a Line Cook focuses on preparing specific dishes on the kitchen line under supervision. Culinary Chefs oversee kitchen operations, whereas Line Cooks execute dishes as part of a team. Both roles are essential in the culinary industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How do you become a culinary chef?

To become a culinary chef, individuals typically complete formal culinary education through culinary schools or programs, gain hands-on experience in kitchens, and develop skills in cooking techniques and kitchen management. Many chefs also pursue certifications such as ServSafe or other food safety credentials to enhance their qualifications.

Is 25 too late to become a culinary chef?

There is no age limit to becoming a culinary chef, and many successful chefs start their careers later in life. Skills such as cooking techniques, creativity, and experience can be developed at any age through culinary schools, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Culinary Chef jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Culinary Chef job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Culinary Chef jobs in KY?

For Culinary Chef jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Culinary Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Culinary Chef job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,571 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Sous Chef/Executive Sous Chef

Gecko Hospitality

Lexington, KY

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Executive Sous Chef

Upscale Casual- Highly Awarded Concept

Are you an Executive Sous Chef passionate about your culinary skills? We are seeking a professional Executive Sous Chef with strong leadership building skills and high energy. To become the Executive Sous Chef of this upscale casual establishment, apply today for our location in Lexington, Kentucky! We opened our doors in the early 2000’s after we were inspired from a trip to Ireland. We are a high-energy pub with no plans on slowing down! We are supplied with local, seasonal, and sustainable foods from the communities we are located in. With over 50 items on our food menu, everyone will be able to find their favorite dish. We also have over 50 brews that are homebrewed from the local community as well as our own craft brew creations. As the Executive Sous Chef, you will make sure the culinary team is organized and well prepared for the seasonal changes that are being made quarterly. You do not want to miss this amazing opportunity as the Executive Sous Chef at our location in Lexington, Kentucky apply today!

 

Title of Position: Executive Sous Chef

Job Description: Our Executive Sous Chef will be challenged every single day. The person in this position will assist the Executive Chef in educating and mentoring the kitchen staff, keeping them up to date with any menu adjustments and maintaining consistent top-quality ingredients in every dish, every time. The Executive Sous Chef must be able to build top line sales and guest counts through the delivery of a competitively superior team that will be recruited, trained and mentored by the Executive Sous Chef. Responsibilities will also include maintaining proper food safety and making sure sanitation procedures are being met.

Benefits:

·       Career Growth Opportunities

·       Work/ Life Balance

·       Fun Atmosphere

·       Competitive Salary

·       And Many More!

Qualifications:

  • The Executive Sous Chef must possess 3-5 years high-volume Kitchen Management experience
  • Proven experience creating a safe work environment incorporating teamwork and professional development is necessary for the Executive Sous Chef
  • The Executive Sous Chef must have proven success in controlling of costs associated with running a profitable business such as food, labor and beverage
  • The Executive Sous Chef must have a strong passion for culinary excellence
  • The ability to perform basic math calculations and knowledge of systems, methods and processes is a must for the Executive Sous Chef

Apply Now – Executive Sous Chef located in Lexington, Kentucky

If you would like to be considered for this position, email your resume to douglas@gekohospitality.com

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