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Entry Level Sous Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chef Instructor

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Minimum 4 years of leadership experience in a professional kitchen (Executive Chef or Sous Chef ... entry level careers. Apex is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and ...

Minimum 4 years of leadership experience in a professional kitchen (Executive Chef or Sous Chef ... entry level careers. Apex is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and ...

Chef Instructor

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Minimum 4 years of leadership experience in a professional kitchen (Executive Chef or Sous Chef ... entry level careers. Apex is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and ...

Chef Instructor

New York, NY ยท On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Minimum 4 years of leadership experience in a professional kitchen (Executive Chef or Sous Chef ... entry level careers. Apex is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and ...

Line - Jr. Sous

Thousand Oaks, CA ยท On-site

$17.90 - $21.51/hr

The Jr. Sous position is an entry level leadership development position for Team Members seeking to ... Seeing our managers and chefs walking the floor provides an extra level of confidence that allows ...

Line - Jr. Sous

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $24.95/hr

The Jr. Sous position is an entry level leadership development position for Team Members seeking to ... Seeing our managers and chefs walking the floor provides an extra level of confidence that allows ...

Line - Jr. Sous

Manhattan Beach, CA ยท On-site

$17.90 - $22.03/hr

The Jr. Sous position is an entry level leadership development position for Team Members seeking to ... Seeing our managers and chefs walking the floor provides an extra level of confidence that allows ...

Minimum 4 years of leadership experience in a professional kitchen (Executive Chef or Sous Chef ... entry level careers. Apex is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and ...

Line - Jr. Sous

Davis, CA

$17.90 - $21.72/hr

The Jr. Sous position is an entry level leadership development position for Team Members seeking to ... Seeing our managers and chefs walking the floor provides an extra level of confidence that allows ...

The Jr. Sous position is an entry level leadership development position for Team Members seeking to ... Seeing our managers and chefs walking the floor provides an extra level of confidence that allows ...

Line - Jr. Sous

Vista, CA ยท On-site

$18.87 - $23.45/hr

The Jr. Sous position is an entry level leadership development position for Team Members seeking to ... Seeing our managers and chefs walking the floor provides an extra level of confidence that allows ...

Line - Jr. Sous

La Jolla, CA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $23.54/hr

The Jr. Sous position is an entry level leadership development position for Team Members seeking to ... Seeing our managers and chefs walking the floor provides an extra level of confidence that allows ...

Line - Jr. Sous

Aliso Viejo, CA ยท On-site

$17.90 - $22.66/hr

The Jr. Sous position is an entry level leadership development position for Team Members seeking to ... Seeing our managers and chefs walking the floor provides an extra level of confidence that allows ...

Line - Jr. Sous

Davis, CA

$17.90 - $21.72/hr

The Jr. Sous position is an entry level leadership development position for Team Members seeking to ... Seeing our managers and chefs walking the floor provides an extra level of confidence that allows ...

Cook III

Charlottesville, VA ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

This entry-level role is perfect for someone passionate about food and eager to grow their culinary ... Monitor stock levels and report shortages or discrepancies to the Sous Chef or Executive Chef.

Cook III

Charlottesville, VA ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

This entry-level role is perfect for someone passionate about food and eager to grow their culinary ... Monitor stock levels and report shortages or discrepancies to the Sous Chef or Executive Chef.

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Entry Level Sous Chef information

See salary details

$30.5K

$59K

$77.5K

How much do entry level sous chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level sous chef in the United States is $58,998.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Sous Chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Sous Chef, you need a solid understanding of culinary techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations, often supported by a culinary degree or relevant restaurant experience. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food handling certifications (such as ServSafe) is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and the ability to work calmly under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure efficient kitchen operations, high food quality, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

Can you be a sous chef with no experience?

Becoming an entry-level sous chef typically requires some culinary training or kitchen experience, as the role involves supervising kitchen staff and managing food preparation. While prior experience is often preferred, individuals with strong cooking skills, a good work ethic, and relevant certifications like food safety may qualify for such positions, especially in smaller or less formal establishments.

What is the most entry level chef position?

The most entry-level chef position is typically a line cook or prep cook, responsible for basic food preparation and assisting more experienced chefs. These roles often require minimal experience, focus on learning kitchen skills, and may lead to higher positions like sous chef with experience and training.

How much experience do you need to become a sous chef?

Entry level sous chefs typically need 2 to 5 years of experience working in professional kitchens, often starting as line cooks or prep cooks. Developing skills in food preparation, kitchen management, and teamwork is essential before advancing to a sous chef role.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level sous chefs when transitioning into a management role?

Entry level sous chefs often encounter challenges such as balancing hands-on cooking duties with new leadership responsibilities, managing time effectively during busy shifts, and communicating clearly with both kitchen staff and front-of-house teams. Learning to delegate tasks, handle inventory, and maintain quality standards under pressure are also typical hurdles. However, these challenges provide valuable learning experiences that help build confidence and prepare for more advanced culinary leadership roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Sous Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectEntry Level Sous ChefLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma, culinary certification preferredHigh school diploma, culinary training often preferred
Work EnvironmentKitchen, restaurant, culinary teamKitchen, restaurant, station-specific
ResponsibilitiesAssist head chef, oversee kitchen operations, supervise staffPrepare dishes, follow recipes, maintain station
Experience LevelEntry-level, some culinary experienceEntry-level, often beginner cooks

While both roles work in restaurant kitchens, an Entry Level Sous Chef typically has more responsibilities, including supervising staff and assisting with kitchen management, whereas a Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes at a specific station. The Entry Level Sous Chef often requires some culinary experience and certification, making it a step above a basic Line Cook position.

What is an entry level sous chef?

An entry level sous chef is an assistant to the head chef in a kitchen, typically responsible for helping manage kitchen staff, overseeing food preparation, and ensuring quality standards are met. While they may have less experience than senior sous chefs, entry level sous chefs often handle day-to-day kitchen operations, assist with inventory, and help train junior staff. This role is a key stepping stone for chefs aspiring to advance to higher leadership positions in the culinary field.

Can you work as a chef with no experience?

Entry level sous chefs can sometimes start with little or no professional experience if they have basic cooking skills, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn. Many employers offer on-the-job training and look for candidates with a passion for cooking and the ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Certifications like food safety training can also improve chances of employment without prior experience.
More about Entry Level Sous Chef jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Sous Chef jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Sous Chef job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Sous Chef jobs? The most popular types of Sous Chef jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Sous Chef jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Sous Chef jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Sous Chef jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Sous Chef jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sous Chef job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 48% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,998 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Chef Instructor

The Fedcap Group

Manhattan, NY โ€ข On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Apex Technical School, a trusted vocational institution serving New York City since 1961, is looking for a passionate Culinary Arts Instructor to join our team. At Apex, we take pride in providing high-quality training programs in the skilled trades that open doors to meaningful and lasting careers. As an instructor, you won't just be teaching recipes or techniques-you'll be mentoring adult learners, sharing real-world knowledge, and shaping the next generation of culinary professionals. Through a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and one-on-one guidance, you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting difference in students' lives while enjoying the stability and satisfaction of a teaching career in a well-established school.
Salary: $75,000 - $80,000 annually (depending on experience)
Responsibilities
  • Teach and demonstrate culinary techniques in both classroom and kitchen settings.
  • Deliver lessons based on Apex's curriculum while emphasizing workplace safety and industry standards.
  • Supervise, guide, and evaluate students to ensure they meet performance goals.
  • Maintain accurate records of attendance, grades, and student progress.
  • Ensure tools, equipment, and kitchen facilities are safely maintained and properly used.
  • Provide constructive feedback, supplemental training, and make-up sessions as needed.
  • Participate in professional development and maintain required certifications and licenses.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent; post-secondary education in Culinary Arts preferred.
  • Minimum 4 years of leadership experience in a professional kitchen (Executive Chef or Sous Chef experience strongly preferred).
  • Current NYC Food Handler's License and ServSafe certification required.
  • BPSS license (or ability to obtain).
  • Strong understanding of kitchen safety, tools, and equipment.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Classroom, and Zoom.
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to teach a diverse student population and create a safe, supportive learning environment.

Physical & Work Environment
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and stand for extended periods.
  • Classroom and kitchen/shop settings with variable noise levels and exposure to odors, oil, fumes, and power equipment.

Why Join Apex
At Apex, you'll be part of a mission-driven organization with a long history of helping students build skills and achieve economic mobility. We offer steady work, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth while working in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Apex Technical School and The Fedcap Group are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
About Us
Apex Technical School is an adult vocational technical school located in Long Island City, New York, that provides top-tier vocational training in high-growth trades. Founded in 1961, Apex serves about 1,400 students annually with seven 900-hour certificate courses in skilled trades including refrigeration, automotive service, auto body, welding technology, electrical and advanced electrical, plumbing and construction. Apex certificate programs are highly regarded and have been shown to have a substantial positive impact on economic mobility-leading to entry level careers.
Apex is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, and licensed by New York State Department of Education Apex offers job placement assistance, financial aid and work-study jobs to those who qualify.
Website: https://apexschool.com/