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Executive Chef Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Catherine's Market

Executive Chef

Alexander City, AL · On-site

$60K - $83K/yr

Executive Chef - About Catherine's Market: Built in 2009, Catherine's Market is a boutique style grocery store, bakery, deli and coffee shop, that is part of Russell Lands' hospitality footprint on ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Executive Chef

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Overview Our Executive Chefs are responsible for all back of house team members, operations, and food production. Our Executive Chefs develop and lead team members by coaching and providing feedback ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Executive Chef

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Overview Our Executive Chefs are responsible for all back of house team members, operations, and food production. Our Executive Chefs develop and lead team members by coaching and providing feedback ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Executive Chef

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Overview Our Executive Chefs are responsible for all back of house team members, operations, and food production. Our Executive Chefs develop and lead team members by coaching and providing feedback ...

Ruth's Chris Steak House

Executive Chef

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Executive Chef Ruth's Chris Steak House Where legendary flavor meets refined leadership. Ruth's Chris Steak House is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and passionate Executive Chef to lead our kitchen ...

Ruth's Chris Steak House

Executive Chef

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$70K - $97K/yr

Executive Chef Ruth's Chris Steak House Where legendary flavor meets refined leadership. Ruth's Chris Steak House is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and passionate Executive Chef to lead our kitchen ...

Mintex Technology

Executive Chef

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$90K/yr

Executive Chef - Multi-Outlet, High-Volume Facility Location: Montgomery, AL Compensation: No negotiation with Right Fit Client: Large-scale industrial dining operation with multiple outlets and 3 ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Be Seen First

Executive Chef

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Our Executive Chefs are responsible for all back of house team members, operations, and food production. Our Executive Chefs develop and lead team members by coaching and providing feedback on job ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking an Executive Chef to join our Morrison Healthcare team and lead culinary operations within a healthcare setting in Birmingham, AL. ** Relocation Assistance Available ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Birmingham, AL

$75K - $85K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking an Executive Chef to join our Morrison Healthcare team and lead culinary operations within a healthcare setting in Birmingham, AL. ** Relocation Assistance Available ...

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

Florence, AL · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

Executive Chef American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing immersive travel, exceptional service, and world-class cuisine while sharing America's story on the finest ...

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

Decatur, AL · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Executive Chef American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing immersive travel, exceptional service, and world-class cuisine while sharing America's story on the finest ...

Highlands College

Executive Chef

Birmingham, AL

$67K - $92K/yr

The Executive Chef provides strategic, operational, and spiritual leadership for all culinary operations at Highlands College. This role is responsible for shaping and executing a compelling campus ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Anniston, AL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking an Executive Chef to join our Morrison Healthcare team and lead culinary operations within a healthcare setting in Anniston, AL. **Relocation Assistance Available Working ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking an Executive Chef to join our Morrison Healthcare team and lead culinary operations within a healthcare setting in Birmingham, AL. ** Relocation Assistance Available ...

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

Decatur, AL

$67K - $92K/yr

Executive Chef American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing immersive travel, exceptional service, and world-class cuisine while sharing America's story on the finest ...

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All JobsChef JobsExecutive Chef JobsExecutive Chef Jobs in Alabama

Executive Chef information

See Alabama salary details

$36.3K

$78.8K

$117.8K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Alabama is $78,753.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,800.00 and $89,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an executive chef do?

An executive chef is the head of the entire kitchen operation of a restaurant. Executive chefs manage inventory, budgeting, menu planning, training, plating, and all kitchen staff, from sous chefs to dishwashers. They ensure the high standard of food quality and that service runs smoothly and efficiently. Executive chefs are the highest level of level of management in the kitchen, and they are ultimately responsible for its success or failure.

What is an executive chef?

Executive Chefs are the head of a restaurant or hotel's kitchen, responsible for overseeing all culinary operations. They develop menus, manage kitchen staff, ensure food quality, and handle budgeting and inventory. Executive Chefs also collaborate with management on menu pricing and may be involved in hiring and training staff. Their primary goal is to maintain high standards of food preparation and presentation while ensuring the kitchen runs efficiently.

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

To thrive as an Executive Chef, you need advanced culinary skills, menu development expertise, and significant kitchen management experience, often supported by a degree from a culinary school or equivalent professional experience. Proficiency with inventory management systems, commercial kitchen equipment, and food safety certifications (like ServSafe) is typically required. Leadership, creativity, and strong communication are essential soft skills to inspire teams and maintain high service standards. These skills ensure operational efficiency, innovation, and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced culinary environment.

What are some of the main challenges executive chefs face when managing kitchen staff and operations?

Executive Chefs often balance creative menu development with the practicalities of managing a diverse kitchen team. Common challenges include maintaining high food quality standards during busy service periods, training and motivating staff, and handling tight budgets for food costs and labor. Effective communication is crucial, as Executive Chefs collaborate closely with restaurant management, waitstaff, and suppliers to ensure smooth operations. Adapting quickly to unexpected issues, such as equipment breakdowns or staff shortages, is also a key part of the role.

What is the difference between Executive Chef vs Sous Chef?

AspectExecutive ChefSous Chef
CredentialsCulinary degree, extensive experienceCulinary degree or equivalent, experience in kitchens
Work EnvironmentOversees entire kitchen operations, manages staffAssists Executive Chef, manages specific kitchen sections
Industry UsageHigh-end restaurants, hotels, resortsAll restaurant types, including casual and fine dining

The Executive Chef is responsible for overall kitchen management, menu creation, and staff supervision, while the Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef by managing daily kitchen operations and specific sections. Both roles require culinary credentials and experience, but the Executive Chef holds a higher leadership position within the culinary hierarchy.

What does an executive chef get paid?

The average salary for an executive chef varies depending on location and establishment but typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually. Experienced executive chefs in high-end restaurants or large hotels can earn over $100,000, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits. Strong leadership, culinary skills, and management experience are essential for higher compensation.

What is the work of an executive chef?

An executive chef is responsible for overseeing the entire kitchen operation, including menu planning, managing staff, ensuring food quality and safety, and controlling costs. They often coordinate with suppliers, maintain health standards, and lead culinary staff to deliver a consistent dining experience.
More about Executive Chef jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Executive Chef jobs in Alabama?

For Executive Chef jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Executive Chef jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Executive Chef jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Executive Chef jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Executive Chef job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Executive Chef jobs in AL?

For Executive Chef jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Executive Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,753 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Executive Chef

Catherine's Market

Alexander City, AL • On-site

$60K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Executive Chef – Job Description

About Catherine’s Market:

Built in 2009, Catherine’s Market is a boutique style grocery store, bakery, deli and coffee shop, that is part of Russell Lands’ hospitality footprint on beautiful Lake Martin, in Central Alabama. We are 40 minutes from Auburn and 1 ½ hours from Birmingham. Find more information on our websites, https://catherinesatcrossroads.com/ and www.russelllands.com

Position Summary:
The Executive Chef oversees all culinary and bakery operations, ensuring high-quality food preparation, menu development, kitchen efficiency, and strong cost control. The Executive Chef must work closely with other store departments including butchery and produce.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership

  • Develop, test, and refine menus that align with Catherine’s core concept.
  • Ensure consistent food quality, flavor profiles, and presentation standards.
  • Lead and mentor culinary staff

Kitchen Operations

  • Oversee daily back-of-house operations, including prep, cooking and service flow.
  • Maintain proper sanitation, cleanliness, and safety procedures in compliance with local food safety regulations.
  • Monitor and maintain kitchen equipment; coordinate repairs or replacements as needed.

Financial amp; Administrative

  • Manage food and labor costs; maintain profitability targets.
  • Create and maintain inventory systems, ordering protocols, and vendor relationships.
  • Develop recipes and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to control portioning and consistency.

Team Management

  • Recruit, train, schedule, and evaluate kitchen staff.
  • Foster a positive kitchen culture based on teamwork, respect, and accountability.
  • Conduct performance reviews and implement ongoing skill development.

Quality Control

  • Taste dishes regularly and ensure strict adherence to recipes.
  • Oversee standards to ensure quality and to maintain consistency.
  • Monitor guest feedback and take action to improve overall satisfaction.

Compliance amp; Standards

  • Maintain compliance with health department regulations and company policies.
  • Train staff in safe food handling, allergen protocols, and hygiene standards.
  • Maintain appropriate certifications (e.g., ServSafe or equivalent)

Qualifications

Essential

· Some background in scratch-made pastry operations.

· Very strong organizational abilities.

Additional

· Proven experience as an Executive Chef, Head Chef, or Senior Sous Chef.

· Strong leadership and communication skills.

· Creativity and passion for food, and an ability to stay calm under pressure

· Experience in grocery store-based food operations

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift up to 40–50 lbs.
  • Work in a fast-paced, high-heat environment.

Apply