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Entry Level Sous Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Line Cook

Clemson, SC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Assume operational leadership by executing full BOH management responsibilities in the Sous Chef's absence and ensuring all production goals are met * Elevate team performance by coaching Entry Level ...

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 · 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 ...

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 · 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

Manhattan, NY · 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

New York, NY · 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 ...

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.

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.

Line - Jr. Sous

La Jolla, CA · 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 · 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 ...

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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 Jul 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.

Is 35 too late to become a chef?

Entry level sous chefs can start at any age, and 35 is not too late to pursue a culinary career. Many successful chefs begin their training or switch careers later in life, often bringing valuable life experience and skills to the kitchen. Gaining relevant certifications, such as culinary school or food safety courses, can help facilitate the transition.

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.

Is sous chef an entry-level position?

A sous chef is typically not an entry-level position; it usually requires several years of experience as a line cook or chef de partie. Entry-level roles in kitchens often include prep cook or line cook, with sous chef being a supervisory role that involves managing kitchen staff and assisting the head chef.

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 often start with little to no professional experience, especially if they have basic cooking skills, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn. Many employers provide on-the-job training and look for candidates with a passion for cooking and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Certifications like food safety training can also improve chances of employment.
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Chef Sous North Coast Cafe

Chef Sous North Coast Cafe

IHG Hotels & Resorts

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


IHG rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 106 rated hotels


Job description


Assist in managing the food and beverage outlet or a shift or section of food and beverage operations. Supervise kitchen employees and entry-level Culinary Staff in preparation and cooking of various food items and their garnishment and presentation. Responsible for menu planning and development and cost control.
At IHG Hotels® we want our guests to relax and be themselves which means we need team members to:
  • Be you - by being natural, professional and personable in the way you are with people
  • Get ready - by taking notice and using your knowledge so that you are prepared for anything
  • Show you care - by being thoughtful in the way you welcome and connect with guests
  • Take action - by showing initiative, taking ownership and going the extra mile

Duties and Responsibilities
FINANCIAL RETURNS
  • Assist in developing new menu concepts. Develop, test, and cost out new menu items. Maintain updated and accurate recipes and costing of all dishes prepared and sold in assigned area of responsibility.
  • Oversee methods of preparation, portion sizes, and timeliness of food preparation; control food usage to minimize waste.
  • Supervise activities of assigned staff, communicate goals, and assign/schedule work. Communicate and enforce policies and procedures.
  • Recommend and initiate disciplinary or other staffing/human resource-related actions in accordance with company rules and policies. Alert management of potentially serious issues. Assist with employee selection, training and development, and performance coaching.
  • Promote teamwork and quality service through daily communication and coordination with other departments. Key departmental contacts include Sales and Marketing, Catering, Banquets, Maintenance, and Guest Services. Assist sales, catering, and banquet staffs with banquets, parties and other special events.
  • Interact with outside contacts:
    • Guests - to ensure their total satisfaction
    • Vendors - to order supplies and equipment and ensure best prices and quality
    • Health Department and other regulatory agencies - regarding safety matters and kitchen inspections
  • Inspect the cleanliness of the line floor and all kitchen stations. Maintain and strictly abide by proper storage procedures and state sanitation and health regulations. Notify the Maintenance Department of any needed repairs.
  • Review the following day's menus and complete requisitions for food and supplies needed from various storerooms; maintain inventory control procedures.
  • Maintain and enforce procedures to (1) ensure the security and proper storage of food and beverage products, kitchen inventory and equipment, (2) replenish supplies, inventory, uniforms, etc. in a timely and efficient manner, and (3) to minimize waste and control costs.
  • Assist in determining the minimum and maximum stocks of all food, material and equipment.
  • Assist in cooking and food preparation as required.
  • May serve as Manager on Duty or perform other duties as assigned.

PEOPLE
GUEST EXPERIENCE
RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS
aCCOUNTABILITY
Assists Executive Chef in supervising the preparation of food for multiple F&B outlets or facilities, or may independently supervise food preparation for one or more outlets. Primary duty is professional chef work and supervision of other culinary employees.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
Completion of a high school diploma or equivalent, plus two years of experience as a chef, or equivalent combination of education and culinary/kitchen operations experience. Degree or certificate in culinary arts preferred.
  • This job requires ability to perform the following:
  • Carrying or lifting items weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Moving about the kitchen
  • Handling food, objects, products and utensils
  • Bending, stooping, kneeling

Other:
  • Communication skills are utilized a significant amount of time when interacting with others; demonstrated ability to interact with employees and guests that reflects highly on the hotel, the brand and the Company.
  • Mathematical skills, including basic math, budgeting, profit/loss concepts, percentages, and variances are utilized frequently.
  • Reading and writing abilities are utilized often when giving and receiving instructions and preparing recipes
  • Problem solving, reasoning, motivating, organizational and training abilities are used often.
  • Alcohol awareness certification and/or food service permit or valid health/food handler card as required by local or state government agency.
  • May be required to work nights, weekends, and/or holidays.

The rate of pay for this role is $27/hr.
The statements in this job description are intended to describe the essential nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be ALL responsibilities or qualifications of the job.
About Us
At IHG, we've made a promise. As one of the world's leading hotel groups, we're here to deliver True Hospitality for Good. Making our guests and colleagues feel welcome, cared for, recognised and respected - wherever they are in the world. Want to be part of the journey?
About the Team
As the world's first and most global luxury hotel brand, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has pioneered international travel since the 1940s, we are passionate about sharing our renowned international know-how and cultural wisdom in truly impressive surroundings. We all take great pride in being genuine ambassadors of the InterContinental®️ brand and to be part of the brand you will have a thirst for travel, passion for culture and appreciation for diversity. We create inspiring experiences for those seeking a richer perspective on the world. If you'd like to embrace a world of opportunities, we'd like to welcome you to the world's most international luxury hotel brand.

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About IHG Hotels & Resorts

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Staybridge Suites is an extended stay hotel, offering elevated residential style-studios and suites, complimentary daily breakfast buffet, complimentary light bites & happy hour 3 days a week, and ample amenities to accommodate both short term and extended-stay guests. We know that being on the road means balancing work with family and friends, so we go out of our way to make your stays enjoyable while keeping you connected to what matters most.

Industry

Hospitality services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Chandler, AZ, US