The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining ...
The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining ...
The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining ...
Quick apply
The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining ...
The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining ...
The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining ...
The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining ...
The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining ...
Culinary Director
Clear Lake, IA · On-site
Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance programs Position Summary The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining ...
Culinary Director
Clear Lake, IA · On-site
Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance programs Position Summary The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining ...
Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance programs Position Summary The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining ...
Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance programs Position Summary The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining ...
Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance programs Position Summary The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining ...
Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance programs Position Summary The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining ...
Culinary Director
Charles City, IA · On-site
Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance programs Position Summary The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining ...
Culinary Director
Charles City, IA · On-site
Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance programs Position Summary The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining ...
Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance programs Position Summary The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining ...
Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance programs Position Summary The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $44K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $44K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $45K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $45K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $46K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $46K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $44K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $44K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$31K - $42K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$31K - $42K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $46K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $46K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $45K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $45K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$28K - $38K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Specialist
$28K - $38K/yr
... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety; attention to detail and ability to follow recipes ...
Culinary Professional information
See Iowa salary details
$9.71 - $11.29
10% of jobs
$11.29 - $12.87
9% of jobs
$13.51 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.87 - $14.45
17% of jobs
The median wage is $15.46 / hr.
$14.45 - $16.03
23% of jobs
$17.26 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.03 - $17.61
21% of jobs
$17.61 - $19.19
10% of jobs
$19.19 - $20.77
7% of jobs
$20.77 - $22.35
1% of jobs
$22.35 - $23.93
1% of jobs
$23.93 - $25.51
1% of jobs
$25.51 - $27.09
0% of jobs
$9
$16
$27
How much do culinary professional jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for culinary professional in Iowa is $16.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Culinary Professional, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Culinary Professional, you need a solid foundation in cooking techniques, food safety, and menu planning, typically supported by a culinary arts degree or relevant certifications. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications like ServSafe are commonly required. Creativity, teamwork, and attention to detail are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies ensure consistently high food quality, efficient kitchen operations, and exceptional dining experiences for guests.
What is the difference between Culinary Professional vs Chef?
| Aspect | Culinary Professional | Chef |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Often includes culinary certifications, food safety, and hospitality training | Typically requires culinary school, apprenticeships, and culinary certifications |
| Work Environment | Restaurants, catering, food service, hospitality industry | Professional kitchens, restaurants, hotels, culinary establishments |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Used broadly for food service roles in hospitality and catering | Specific to kitchen leadership and culinary arts |
The term "Culinary Professional" encompasses a wide range of food service roles, including cooks, food prep staff, and kitchen assistants, often with various certifications. A "Chef" is a specialized culinary professional who typically has formal culinary training and leads kitchen operations. While all chefs are culinary professionals, not all culinary professionals are chefs. The main difference lies in the scope of responsibilities and level of specialization.
What is a culinary professional?
A culinary professional is an individual trained in the art and science of preparing, cooking, and presenting food. This can include chefs, cooks, bakers, and others working in restaurants, hotels, catering, or other food service establishments. Culinary professionals are skilled in a variety of cooking techniques, food safety, kitchen management, and menu planning. They often work in fast-paced environments, requiring creativity, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills. Many pursue formal education at culinary schools, while others gain experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training.
What are some common challenges culinary professionals face in a fast-paced kitchen environment?
Culinary professionals often navigate challenges such as time management, maintaining consistency under pressure, and adapting to last-minute menu changes. Working in a bustling kitchen requires effective communication with team members and the ability to multitask without compromising food quality or safety standards. Additionally, long hours and physically demanding tasks are common, so resilience and a passion for the craft are essential for success and growth in this field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Culinary jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Culinary jobs in Iowa are:
WesleyLife rating
4.3
Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Position Summary
The Culinary Innovation & Research Intern will spend 10 weeks immersed in WesleyLife's culinary culture, operations, and innovation efforts. The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining experience for older adults. This internship is designed as a talent pipeline opportunity, with the goal of identifying future culinary leaders interested in joining WesleyLife following the completion of the program.
Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities
- Participate in community tours and culinary immersion experiences.
- Research industry-leading adaptive dining and finger-food programs.
- Develop creative culinary concepts and recipes.
- Conduct recipe testing, tastings, and resident evaluations.
- Analyze nutrition, production feasibility, and food costs.
- Create standardized recipes and production procedures.
- Document culinary innovations.
- Gather resident and team member feedback.
- Assist in establishing the framework for future WesleyLife culinary internship programs.
- Present a final project and recommendations to WesleyLife leadership.
Education & Experience
- Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Food Science, Nutrition, or related program
- ServSafe Certification required
- Passion for culinary innovation and hospitality
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Previous restaurant, hotel, healthcare, or foodservice experience preferred
- Interest in senior living, wellness, healthcare dining, or culinary research and development
- Interest in pursuing a culinary career within WesleyLife following internship completion
What WesleyLife employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About WesleyLife
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Health care and social assistance
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Johnston, IA, US
Year founded
1947