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Event Chef Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Well Dunn Catering

Event Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Experienced Event Chefs Well Dunn Catering - Washington, DC. Full-Time and Part-Time. $25 -$35 per hour. As one of DC's premier caterers, Well Dunn Catering is a leader in creating innovative ...

Well Dunn Catering

Event Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Experienced Event Chefs Well Dunn Catering - Washington, DC. Full-Time and Part-Time. $25 -$35 per hour. As one of DC's premier caterers, Well Dunn Catering is a leader in creating innovative ...

Elior North America

Event Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

Event Chef Job Reference Number: 41941 Employment Type: Part-Time , Onsite Segment: Dining & Events Brand: Design-Cuisine The Role at a glance: We are looking to add a skilled, experienced Event Chef ...

Elior North America

Event Chef

Arlington, VA

Event Chef Job Reference Number: 41941 Employment Type: Part-Time , Onsite Segment: Dining & Events Brand: Design-Cuisine The Role at a glance: We are looking to add a skilled, experienced Event Chef ...

Design-Cuisine

Event Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

Event Chef Job Reference Number: 41941 Employment Type: Part-Time , Onsite Segment: Dining & Events Brand: Design-Cuisine The Role at a glance: We are looking to add a skilled, experienced Event Chef ...

Elior North America

Event Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Event Chef Job Reference Number: 39757 Employment Type: Part-Time , Onsite Segment: Dining & Events Brand: Design-Cuisine Location: Arlington , Virginia (US-VA) The Role at a glance: We are looking ...

Main Event Caterers

Catering Event Sous Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Join our team at Main Event Caterers as a Catering Event Sous Chef! As a vital member of our culinary team, you will have the opportunity to showcase your talent and creativity while delivering mouth ...

Union Square Events

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Sous Chef Salary: $75,000 to $85,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Eligible for a 10% bonus ... We produce one-of-a-kind catered events and unparalleled dining experiences in a variety of ...

Sulgrave Club

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$56K - $76K/yr

The Sous Chef will work at the direction of the Executive Chef and Executive Sous Chef and supervises and assists in all aspects of food preparation for dining room, private parties, special events ...

Union Square Events

Chef de Cuisine

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Chef De Cuisine Salary: $110,000 to $120,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Bonus Founded in 2005 as ... We produce one-of-a-kind catered events and unparalleled dining experiences in a variety of ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$75K - $85K/yr

Sous Chef Salary: $75,000 to $85,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Eligible for a 10% bonus ... We produce one-of-a-kind catered events and unparalleled dining experiences in a variety of ...

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Event Chef information

See Washington salary details

$11

$27

$50

How much do event chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for event chef in Washington is $27.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $35.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an event chef?

Event Chefs are professional cooks who specialize in preparing and serving food for special occasions such as weddings, corporate gatherings, parties, and other events. They plan menus tailored to the event, manage food preparation, and often oversee a team of kitchen staff to ensure timely and high-quality service. Event Chefs may work for catering companies, hotels, or as independent contractors, adapting their skills to suit various cuisines and event sizes. Their role is crucial in creating memorable dining experiences that complement the overall event atmosphere.

How does an event chef typically collaborate with event planners and service staff during large functions?

Event Chefs work closely with event planners to understand the theme, dietary requirements, and timing of each event. They coordinate with service staff to ensure efficient food delivery, maintain food quality during service, and address any on-site changes or guest requests. Clear communication and adaptability are essential, as the Event Chef must often adjust menus or service styles in real-time to accommodate unexpected challenges, ensuring a seamless dining experience for guests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an event chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Event Chef, you need advanced culinary skills, experience in high-volume food preparation, and often formal culinary training or certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food safety standards, and event management software is typically required. Strong leadership, time management, and adaptability are essential soft skills for coordinating teams and handling the dynamic nature of events. These abilities ensure exceptional food quality, efficient service, and successful event execution under pressure.

What is the difference between Event Chef vs Catering Chef?

AspectEvent ChefCatering Chef
Credentials Culinary degree or equivalent, food safety certifications Culinary degree or equivalent, food safety certifications
Work Environment Temporary, event-specific settings like weddings, parties Often in catering kitchens, large-scale food prep for events
Industry Usage Commonly employed in event planning and hospitality Used in catering companies, banquet halls, and large events
Job Focus Preparing food for specific events, managing event kitchens Preparing large quantities of food for catering services

Both Event Chefs and Catering Chefs require culinary skills and certifications. Event Chefs focus on preparing food for specific events in temporary settings, while Catering Chefs handle large-scale food prep for multiple events in more permanent catering facilities. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in work environment and scope.

Event Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Event Chef job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,017 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Event Chef

Washington, DC • On-site

Well Dunn Catering
Food Services and Drinking Places • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Well Dunn Cateringexternal

$28 - $35/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Experienced Event Chefs

Well Dunn Catering - Washington, DC.
Full-Time and Part-Time.
$25 -$35 per hour.
As one of DC's premier caterers, Well Dunn Catering is a leader in creating innovative, collaborative, and delicious events in the DMV area--from cocktail receptions to weddings, galas, and much more.
At the heart of our business is a diverse, knowledgeable staff who bring our events to life. As our business continues to grow, we are looking to grow our team of expertly-trained event chefs. And we hope you will join us!
In becoming a member of our event staff, we look for folks who possess the following characteristics: 
  • Experience working as a catering chef.
  • Customer service skills.
  • Reliability.
  • Punctuality. 
  • Collaborative. 
  • Attention to detail. 
  • A love for food service and an affinity for Well Dunn's mission. 

If you are looking for a flexible part-time job to supplement your income, Well Dunn could be the place for you! Do you have experience in the hospitality industry? We'd love to talk to you! 
Chef pay rates begin at $28 per hour, and we can offer more based on experience. Please attach a resume in your email that details your work experience and history.