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Entry Level Chef Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lead Cook

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $22.50/hr

This is an entry-level structured training program designed to be completed within 6 months with ... What will I do? * Assist the Sous Chef in running the kitchen and managing employees, overseeing ...

EARN A BONUS UP TO $1,500! We're looking for entry-level leaders who are passionate and ready to ... Gold Pan Meals, Chef Eric (Video, Opens in Modal) Developing delicious meals Learn More * Meet ...

Cook Full Time

Henrico, VA · On-site

$16.70 - $20.34/hr

Works with Chef in menu planning and suggests changes, when necessary, in production or recipe ... Fundamental knowledge of general kitchen and ingredient offerings to perform entry-level duties in ...

Cook Part Time - Mornings

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.70 - $20.34/hr

Works with Chef in menu planning and suggests changes, when necessary, in production or recipe ... Fundamental knowledge of general kitchen and ingredient offerings to perform entry-level duties in ...

Cook 1

Centreville, VA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Cook 1

Centreville, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Cook 1

Haymarket, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Cook 1

Centreville, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Cook 1

Haymarket, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Cook 1

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Cook 1

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Cook 1

Haymarket, VA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Cook 1

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Fast Food Cook

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16.50/hr

The Fast Food Cook is an entry level position that prepares food for guests in accordance with the ... Provides food and utensils for chef by carrying pans, kettles, and trays of food to and from ...

Fast Food Cook

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16.50/hr

The Fast Food Cook is an entry level position that prepares food for guests in accordance with the ... Provides food and utensils for chef by carrying pans, kettles, and trays of food to and from ...

Fast Food Cook

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16.50/hr

The Fast Food Cook is an entry level position that prepares food for guests in accordance with the ... Provides food and utensils for chef by carrying pans, kettles, and trays of food to and from ...

Prep Cook

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

This may include positions such as prep cook, dishwasher, kitchen assistant, or other entry-level ... Head Chef/Sous Chef Collaborates With: Management team, Administrative support Supports & Engages ...

Line Cook

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Supporting Cooks and Chefs: Prep cooks provide essential support to line cooks, sous chefs, and ... This may include positions such as prep cook, dishwasher, kitchen assistant, or other entry-level ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Chef information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$24

$44

How much do entry level chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level chef in Virginia is $24.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $30.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level chef?

An Entry Level Chef, often called a Commis Chef, is a beginner role in a professional kitchen. They assist senior chefs with food preparation, basic cooking tasks, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. Responsibilities may include chopping ingredients, plating dishes, and learning cooking techniques. This role is a stepping stone for gaining hands-on experience and advancing in the culinary industry. Many Entry Level Chefs work in restaurants, hotels, or catering services while developing their skills.

What are the typical career growth opportunities for an entry level chef?

As an Entry Level Chef, you typically start by assisting with food preparation and basic cooking tasks, but there are many opportunities for advancement. With experience and continued training, you can progress to more senior kitchen roles such as Line Cook, Sous Chef, or even Head Chef over time. Many kitchens and restaurants offer on-the-job training, mentorship, and sometimes tuition assistance for further culinary education. Demonstrating strong work ethic, creativity, and a willingness to learn can significantly enhance your advancement prospects within the culinary field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level chef position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Chef, you need basic culinary skills, a strong understanding of food safety, and often a high school diploma or culinary certification. Experience with kitchen tools, food preparation equipment, and safe handling procedures is typically required. Attention to detail, the ability to work well under pressure, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills that help you succeed. These skills ensure you can prepare dishes efficiently, contribute positively to kitchen operations, and maintain high standards of cleanliness and cooperation.

How to get an entry level chef job with no experience?

To secure an entry-level chef position with no experience, focus on gaining basic culinary skills through cooking classes or volunteering in food service settings. Building a strong work ethic, demonstrating enthusiasm, and obtaining relevant certifications like food safety can improve your chances; some employers also value a willingness to learn and adaptability.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Chef jobs in Virginia?

For Entry Level Chef jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Chef jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Chef jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Chef jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Chef job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Chef job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,786 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Lead Cook

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Wegmans Food Markets
Food and Beverage Stores • 10K+ employees

$21.75 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Wegmans Food Markets rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 844 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 124 rated grocery stores


Job description

Location:
14361 Newbrook Drive Chantilly, VA 20151
Availability Requirement for this role:
Morning, afternoon, evening (includes weekends).
Age Requirement:
Must be 18 years or older
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Range:
$21.75 - $22.50 / hour
Why Work Here
Working at Wegmans provides opportunities to grow, flexible scheduling, incredible benefits, and the experience of working for a company with a reputation you can be proud of.
Job Description:
As a culinary leader in our kitchen, you are a team player and positive role model that ensures the development and education of the cooks. You will assist with bottom line profitability and make sure we are only serving the best products to our customers. If you are looking for an opportunity where the store is your pantry, the work is exciting and meaningful with some of the best culinarians in the industry, this could be the role for you!
This is an entry-level structured training program designed to be completed within 6 months with support from a mentor and trainer. Successful program completion will result in placement as a Lead Cook in our Restaurant Foods Kitchen area.
What will I do?
  • Assist the Sous Chef in running the kitchen and managing employees, overseeing the operations in the absence of the Sous Chef
  • Follow recipes and proper cooking techniques to ensure products are consistently prepared to showcase our high standards and giving our guests a meal they can't find elsewhere
  • Educate customers and employees on products, share knowledge to offer complete meal solutions and suggest ways for them to prepared meal items incorporating items from different departments.
  • Manage employee performance by providing resources, training, feedback and development opportunities
  • Note to Applicant: Candidates may be considered for multiple store locations within the specified region, based on current openings

Required Qualifications
  • 2 or more years' experience as a prep or line cook
  • Food safety and quality assurance knowledge

Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Experience working in a multi-faceted food service facility, including restaurant, hotel, country club, conference center, casino, theme park, etc.

What Wegmans Food Markets employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Wegmans Food Markets logo

About Wegmans Food Markets

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Wegmans Food Markets, situated in Rochester, NY, US, is a widely recognized name in the retail grocery industry. The company was founded in 1916 by Walter Wegman as Rochester Fruit and Vegetable Company and has since been providing a diverse series of high-quality grocery products. It is built on the mission of “helping families live healthier, better lives through food.” Core values of caring, high standards, making a difference, respect, and empowerment drive the firm to uphold its quality, bringing every meal an opportunity for happiness. Wegmans has been celebrated with multiple accolades and was named the best grocery chain in the U.S. by Food & Wine in 2020.

Industry

Food and beverage stores

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US

Year founded

1916