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Entry Level Chef Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

JCSI

Food Preparer

Portland, OR · On-site

$18/hr

Previous food industry experience is helpful but not required * Entry-level candidates are welcome ... Use chef knives and kitchen equipment safely * Follow all customer specifications, paperwork, work ...

Market of Choice

Kitchen Clerk

Portland, OR · On-site

$20.50/hr

... team! Entry-level hourly kitchen clerk positions start at $19.00/hour and go up to $20.50/hour ... Chefs! This is a unique opportunity to be part of a tight-knit team atmosphere that is creative ...

Market of Choice

Kitchen Clerk

Portland, OR · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

... team! Entry-level hourly kitchen clerk positions start at $19.00/hour and go up to $20.50/hour ... Chefs! This is a unique opportunity to be part of a tight-knit team atmosphere that is creative ...

Market of Choice

Kitchen Clerk

Portland, OR

$20.50/hr

... team! Entry-level hourly kitchen clerk positions start at $19.00/hour and go up to $20.50/hour ... Chefs! This is a unique opportunity to be part of a tight-knit team atmosphere that is creative ...

Market of Choice

Kitchen Clerk

Portland, OR · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

... team! Entry-level hourly kitchen clerk positions start at $19.00/hour and go up to $20.50/hour ... Chefs! This is a unique opportunity to be part of a tight-knit team atmosphere that is creative ...

Sysco

Sales Consultant - East Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

... or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco

Sales Consultant - Florence

Portland, OR · On-site

... or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco

Sales Consultant - Eugene, OR

Portland, OR · On-site

... or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco

Sales Consultant - Corvallis

Portland, OR · On-site

... or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco

Sales Consultant - Roseburg

Portland, OR · On-site

... or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco

Sales Consultant

Portland, OR · On-site

... or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco Corporation

Sales Consultant

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

... or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco

Sales Consultant

Portland, OR

$45K - $75K/yr

... or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco

Sales Consultant - East Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

... or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

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All JobsChef JobsEntry Level Chef JobsEntry Level Chef Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Chef information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$25

$45

How much do entry level chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level chef in Portland, OR is $25.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $31.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level Chef job?

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 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.

What is an entry level chef position?

An entry level chef position is a beginner role in a kitchen, often involving basic food preparation, cooking, and cleaning tasks. It typically requires minimal experience and may involve working under the supervision of more experienced chefs, with opportunities to learn culinary skills and gain certifications like food safety training.

How much do beginner chefs make?

Entry-level chefs typically earn between $20,000 and $30,000 annually, depending on location, establishment, and experience. Starting salaries may be lower at smaller or less established restaurants, but with skills and certifications, earnings can increase over time.

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.

Can I get a cooking job with no experience?

Entry level chef positions often do not require prior professional experience and focus on basic cooking skills, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Employers may provide on-the-job training and look for candidates with a positive attitude and basic knowledge of kitchen safety and hygiene. Certifications like food handler permits can also improve chances of employment.

How to get a chef job with no experience?

Entry level chef positions often do not require prior experience and focus on basic cooking skills, a willingness to learn, and a positive attitude. Gaining experience through volunteering, completing culinary courses, or working in entry-level food service roles can improve chances of securing a chef job without experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Chef jobs in Portland, OR? For Entry Level Chef jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Chef jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Chef jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Chef jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Chef job openings:
Entry Level Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Chef job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,346 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Food Preparer

Food Preparer

JCSI

Portland, OR • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Food Preparer – $18.00/HR | Airline Catering | Portland, OR

Location: Portland, OR 97218 (Portland International Airport Area)

Full-Time | Immediate Openings | Weekly Pay

Food Service employees prepare meals according to airline specifications by cutting, chopping, wrapping, and assembling dishes and meals. They also set up food carts for airlines with all required food items.

Minimum Requirements – Please Read Before Applying

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Required Qualifications

  • Ability to speak, read, and understand English

  • Ability to follow and understand customer specifications and paperwork in English

  • Full compliance with all work rules and regulations

  • Flexibility and ability to react to changing priorities

  • Ability to use knives and kitchen equipment

  • Good organizational skills

  • Ability to adapt to frequent changes

  • Ability to communicate with customers and coworkers

  • Ability to work in a high-stress environment with changing priorities

  • Ability to work assigned schedules, which may include days, nights, weekends, or holidays

  • Ability to work overtime when required

  • Ability to handle dry ice

  • Ability to stand on your feet all day

  • Ability to regularly stand, bend, lift, and move during shifts of 8+ hours

  • Ability to perform heavy lifting and pushing up to 75 lbs

  • Ability to work in a temperature-controlled environment

  • Ability to work while wearing required items such as hair nets and lab coats

  • Must follow appearance and food safety standards, including no piercings or fake nails

Security & Screening Requirements

Candidates must be able to:

  • Pass a criminal background check

  • Pass a drug test

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous food industry experience is helpful but not required

  • Entry-level candidates are welcome and can be trained

Pay & Benefits

  • $18.00 per hour

  • Medical Insurance after 30 days, if elected

  • Dental Insurance after 30 days, if elected

  • Vision Insurance after 30 days, if elected

  • Supplemental Insurance after 30 days, if elected

  • Company-Paid Life Insurance

  • Paid Sick Days

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Vacation

  • Free Daily Lunch

  • Free Parking

  • Overtime Opportunities

  • Discounted standby flights with Alaska Airlines after 90 days

What You'll Do

  • Prepare meals according to airline specifications

  • Cut, chop, wrap, and assemble dishes and meals

  • Set up food carts for airlines with all required food items

  • Follow diagrams and specifications that outline ingredients, portions, weights, and preparation steps

  • Assemble food items according to exact customer guidelines

  • Plate food prepared by the hot food area

  • Track food temperatures using a digital system/iPad

  • Wrap food items

  • Write tags with expiration dates and temperatures

  • Use chef knives and kitchen equipment safely

  • Follow all customer specifications, paperwork, work rules, and regulations

Work Environment

  • Active food preparation environment

  • Temperature-controlled work area

  • Exposure to extreme temperature changes and noise

  • Regular standing, bending, lifting, walking, and moving throughout the shift

  • Heavy lifting and pushing up to 75 lbs

  • Shifts may be 8+ hours

  • Required use of hair nets and lab coats

  • No piercings or fake nails permitted

Apply today to start an entry-level airline catering role in Portland with paid benefits, free daily lunch, free parking, and overtime opportunities.