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Event Chef Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Garces Events is looking for a dynamic and motivated Event Chef who is keenly focused on the culinary experience. Ideal candidates will possess exceptional leadership qualities and are ...

Executive Event Chef

Elkins Park, PA · On-site

$69K - $95K/yr

Position Overview The Executive Event Chef plays a critical leadership role in delivering exceptional culinary experiences across our events division. This individual must be deeply engaged in the ...

Executive Event Chef

Elkins Park, PA · On-site

$69K - $95K/yr

Position Overview The Executive Event Chef plays a critical leadership role in delivering exceptional culinary experiences across our events division. This individual must be deeply engaged in the ...

Executive Event Chef

Elkins Park, PA

$69K - $95K/yr

Position Overview The Executive Event Chef plays a critical leadership role in delivering exceptional culinary experiences across our events division. This individual must be deeply engaged in the ...

Executive Chef

New Hope, PA

$70K - $96K/yr

... Event Chef and Pastry Chef. · Maintain the highest standards of food safety and guest satisfaction. What We're Looking For · 5+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience. · 2+ years as ...

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Event Chef information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$10

$24

$44

How much do event chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for event chef in Philadelphia, PA is $24.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $31.15 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.

Infographic showing various Event Chef job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,473 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Event Chef (Lead)

12TH STREET CATERING INC

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Event Chef

Looking for a culinary role that fits your schedule—not the other way around? 12th Street Catering is hiring Event Chefs for flexible, event-based work where you choose when and where you work.

This is a perfect opportunity for working chefs, culinary students, or industry professionals looking to earn extra income while cooking at incredible events—from elegant weddings and high-profile corporate gatherings to intimate private dinners.

With our easy-to-use staffing app, you can pick up shifts that fit your availability. No pressure, no long-term commitment—just great events when you’re available.


What You’ll Do

As an Event Chef, you’ll be the culinary lead on-site, responsible for bringing our menus to life with precision, professionalism, and creativity. Responsibilities include:

· Executing event menus on-site with accuracy and attention to detail

· Leading and supporting kitchen staff during events

· Overseeing prep, plating, and service execution

· Maintaining composure and problem-solving in fast-paced environments

· Upholding food safety, cleanliness, and quality standards

· Delivering memorable dining experiences for our clients and guests


Why Work With Us

· Flexible, event-based scheduling — work as much or as little as you want

· Competitive pay

· Variety of event styles and locations

· Opportunities for growth within a well-established catering company

· Supportive, team-oriented culture that values creativity and integrity

With over 30 years of experience, 12th Street Catering is a full-service catering and hospitality company built by people who truly love food. From scratch-made menus to thoughtful service and curated details, we put heart into everything we do—and we’re looking for chefs who do the same.

What We’re Looking For

· Culinary experience (professional kitchen or event experience preferred)

· Ability to work independently and lead a team during service

· Strong time management and adaptability under pressure

· Passion for food, hospitality, and guest experience

· Reliable transportation and weekend availability a plus