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Development Chef Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Jibek Jolu

Chef

Glenview, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We are seeking a talented and motivated Chef to lead our Back of House (BOH) operations and drive ... Room for professional growth and development. How to Apply: If you're passionate about culinary ...

Hawksmoor

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Sous Chef - Hawksmoor Chicago Chicago is the historical powerhouse of American beef, and when ... Taking part in menu development and tastings * Efficiency of services/kitchen * Product and service ...

Laurus Home Care

Executive Chef

Silvis, IL · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Executive Chef StoryPoint Silvis Position Summary: The Executive Chef is responsible for the ... Must have previous experience and proficient with menu development and pricing. * Must have ...

Osaka Nikkei - Chicago

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K/yr

In this role, you'll work directly under the Head Chef to ensure seamless daily service, manage ... Growth and development opportunities * Dynamic, multicultural team environment * Competitive salary ...

StoryPoint

Executive Chef

Silvis, IL · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Executive Chef StoryPoint Silvis Position Summary: The Executive Chef is responsible for the ... Must have previous experience and proficient with menu development and pricing. * Must have ...

StoryPoint Group

Executive Chef

Silvis, IL · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Executive Chef StoryPoint Silvis Position Summary: The Executive Chef is responsible for the ... Must have previous experience and proficient with menu development and pricing. * Must have ...

DineAmic Hospitality

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $101K/yr

The Executive Chef is responsible for the successful management of the restaurant's kitchen. The ... and professional development * Ability to efficiently identify issues and problem solve.

QUEST FOOD MANAGEMENT SERVICES LLC

Chef Manager

Dixon, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

We support professional growth through training, development and access to highly visible leadership. Position Summary The Chef Manager position will assist in overseeing the cafeteria and catering ...

DineAmic Group

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $101K/yr

The Executive Chef is responsible for the successful management of the restaurant's kitchen. The ... and professional development * Ability to efficiently identify issues and problem solve.

Trinityhealth

Executive Chef

Mount Carmel, IL · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

Attracts, develops and trains talent to ensure program quality, sustainability, long-term growth, and development. The Executive Chef leads by exemplifying the mission, vision and values of Trinity ...

Trinity Health

Executive Chef

Mount Carmel, IL · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

Attracts, develops and trains talent to ensure program quality, sustainability, long-term growth, and development. The Executive Chef leads by exemplifying the mission, vision and values of Trinity ...

Kraft Heinz Company

Corporate Chef

Glenview, IL · On-site

$104K - $130K/yr

As the Corporate Chef- Non-Commercial Accounts, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and ... Provide on-site consultations, engaging in menu concept development, tastings, and culinary ...

Air Culinaire Worldwide

Executive Chef

Park Ridge, IL · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

... development. The Kitchen Manager/Executive Chef must have an excellent driving record and valid ... driver's license, and be able to pass a FAA on-ramp security clearance and pre-employment and ...

Cindy's

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$70K - $75K/yr

Continually working through R&D process with the Executive Chef to further dishes on the menu Qualifications: * 3-4 years of experience in a Sous Chef role * Open availability, including nights ...

Skokie Country Club

Sous Chef

Glencoe, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Benefits: * Training & development * Company parties * 401(k) * 401(k) matching * Competitive ... The Sous Chef is responsible to assist the Executive Chef for the overall kitchen operation ...

One Off Hospitality Group Ltd

Sous Chef

Highwood, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

For almost 30 years, One Off Hospitality has developed and operated some of Chicago's most beloved places to eat and drink. More importantly, we're a group of people - chefs, hospitality veterans ...

Goodwin Recruiting

Chef de Cuisine

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K/yr

The Chef de Cuisine is responsible for all aspects of Culinary operations, including food ... Expertise in staff development, including coaching, training, and leading teams, as well as ...

BLUE PLATE CATERING LTD

Pastry Chef

Chicago, IL

Executive Chef Customary Days: Sunday - Saturday Customary Hours: Varies to include evenings ... Leadership & Team Development: Recruit, hire, train, coach, mentor, and develop pastry employees.

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsDevelopment Chef JobsDevelopment Chef Jobs in Illinois

Development Chef information

See Illinois salary details

$32K

$75K

$128.9K

How much do development chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for development chef in Illinois is $75,040.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $87,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a development chef?

A Development Chef is a culinary professional who specializes in creating and testing new recipes, food products, and menu items for restaurants, food manufacturers, or catering businesses. They blend creativity with technical expertise to innovate dishes that meet specific market trends, dietary requirements, and brand standards. Development Chefs often work closely with food technologists, marketing teams, and suppliers to ensure new products are both delicious and commercially viable. Their work may involve research, taste testing, and refining recipes to achieve the best possible result for consumers.

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

To thrive as a Development Chef, you need strong culinary expertise, creativity in recipe development, and a solid understanding of food safety regulations, often supported by formal culinary training and relevant certifications. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food production management systems, and nutritional analysis software is typically expected. Strong project management, collaboration, and communication skills set outstanding Development Chefs apart. These abilities ensure innovative yet practical menu concepts that meet business goals and delight customers.

How does a development chef collaborate with other departments to create new menu items?

A Development Chef works closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, procurement, and operations, to develop innovative menu items that align with brand objectives and operational capabilities. This often involves conducting taste panels, sourcing new ingredients, and ensuring recipes are scalable for production. Regular communication and collaboration with these departments are essential to ensure that new dishes meet cost, quality, and consistency standards before being rolled out to restaurants or retail outlets.

What is the difference between Development Chef vs Sous Chef?

AspectDevelopment ChefSous Chef
CredentialsCulinary degree, culinary certificationsCulinary degree, culinary certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch and development kitchens, innovation labsRestaurant kitchens, food service establishments
Employer & IndustryFood companies, product development firmsHotels, restaurants, catering services
Primary FocusCreating new recipes, product developmentManaging kitchen operations, preparing dishes

The main difference between a Development Chef and a Sous Chef lies in their focus and work environment. Development Chefs primarily work in research and development settings, creating new recipes and food products, while Sous Chefs are hands-on kitchen leaders managing daily kitchen operations in restaurants or hotels. Both roles require culinary credentials, but their responsibilities and workplaces differ significantly.

What do development chefs do?

Development chefs create and test new recipes, menu items, and food products for restaurants, food companies, or manufacturers. They often work in test kitchens, collaborate with culinary teams, and use their knowledge of ingredients, food trends, and food safety standards to innovate and improve offerings.

What is a typical day for a development chef?

A development chef's day involves creating and testing new recipes, developing product concepts, and collaborating with cross-functional teams such as marketing and production. They often work in a kitchen or laboratory environment, utilizing culinary skills, food science knowledge, and sometimes specialized tools or software to refine products and ensure quality standards.

What are popular job titles related to Development Chef jobs in Illinois?

For Development Chef jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Development Chef jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Development Chef jobs in Illinois are:

Development Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Development Chef job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,040 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Chef

Glenview, IL • On-site

Jibek Jolu
Restaurants • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Jibek Joluexternal

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Company parties
  • Employee discounts
  • Paid time off

About Us:
We are a dynamic and innovative restaurant dedicated to delivering exceptional culinary experiences. Our team is passionate about creativity, quality, and guest satisfaction. We are seeking a talented and motivated Chef to lead our Back of House (BOH) operations and drive culinary excellence.
Responsibilities:
  • Oversee daily BOH operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and adherence to recipes.
  • Develop and implement seasonal menus, ensuring consistency in flavor, portion sizes, and presentation.
  • Lead, train, and mentor BOH staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
  • Maintain high standards of food safety, sanitation, and compliance with health regulations.
  • Manage inventory, optimize food costs, and minimize waste.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to execute catering, events, and marketing initiatives.
  • Analyze guest feedback and implement improvements to enhance dining experiences.
  • Ensure adherence to SOPs, schedules, and operational standards.
Requirements:
  • Proven experience as a  Chef or similar role in a high-volume restaurant.
  • Strong culinary skills with a passion for innovation and food trends.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
  • In-depth knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and inventory management.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and adapt to challenges.
  • Flexibility to handle emergencies and participate in meetings as needed.
Why Join Us?
  • Opportunity to lead a talented team and shape the culinary direction of our restaurant.
  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • A collaborative and inclusive work environment.
  • Room for professional growth and development.
How to Apply:
If you’re passionate about culinary excellence and ready to take on a leadership role, we’d love to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to hr@jibekjolu.us.