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Executive Chef Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

the Chef Agency

Executive Chef

Palm Springs, CA

$125K - $135K/yr

Executive Chef Location: Palm Springs/Palm Desert area Salary: $125,000 - $135,000 Base Salary + Bonus Benefits: MDV, PTO, 401(k), relocation assistance Property Description: Upscale resort ...

Piatti Mill Valley

Executive Chef

Mill Valley, CA · On-site

$110 - $120/hr

Executive Chef - Piatti Mill Valley Compensation: $110,000-$120,000 annually Candidates should have 3+ years as an Executive Chef for a full service, high volume restaurant - previous working ...

Piatti Mill Valley

Executive Chef

Mill Valley, CA · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Executive Chef - Piatti Mill ValleyCompensation: $110,000-$120,000 annuallyCandidates should have 3+ years as an Executive Chef for a full service, high volume restaurant - previous working ...

Piatti Mill Valley

Executive Chef

Mill Valley, CA · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Executive Chef - Piatti Mill Valley Compensation: $110,000-$120,000 annually Candidates should have 3+ years as an Executive Chef for a full service, high volume restaurant - previous working ...

Piatti Mill Valley

Executive Chef

Mill Valley, CA · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Executive Chef - Piatti Mill Valley Compensation: $110,000-$120,000 annually Candidates should have 3+ years as an Executive Chef for a full service, high volume restaurant - previous working ...

RMD Group

Executive Chef

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Executive Chef Location: San Diego, CA Job Id: 162-1 # of Openings: 1 EXECUTIVE CHEF - RUSTIC ROOT (GASLAMP) Salary | Full-Time | $90,000-$120,000 We're seeking a strategic, hands‑on Executive Chef ...

Nbutexas

Executive Chef

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

We're seeking a highly accomplished and dynamic Executive Chef to join our culinary leadership team at a premier, high-volume fine dining restaurant in Beverly Hills . This is an exceptional ...

New

Crestline Hotels and Resorts

Executive Chef

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

The Executive Chef is responsible for the successful operation and administration of the culinary department to include stewarding. The Executive Chef must ensure that the culinary department is ...

Hotel Spero

Executive Chef

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

The Executive Chef is responsible for the successful operation and administration of the culinary department to include stewarding. The Executive Chef must ensure that the culinary department is ...

Wally's Wine & Spirits

Executive Chef

Culver City, CA · On-site

$110 - $120/hr

Executive Chef# Executive ChefCulver City, CA 90232## OverviewSalary Range$110,000.00 - $120,000.00 Salary/yearPosition TypeFull TimeJob ShiftAnyCategoryRestaurant - Food Service## DescriptionWally ...

Everline Resort & Spa

Executive Chef

Olympic Valley, CA

$79K - $109K/yr

As Executive Chef, you will help shape the culinary identity of Everline Resort & Spa while delivering exceptional dining experiences for resort guests, members, groups, weddings, and special events.

Everline Resort & Spa

Executive Chef

Olympic Valley, CA · On-site

$110 - $130/hr

As Executive Chef, you will help shape the culinary identity of Everline Resort & Spa while delivering exceptional dining experiences for resort guests, members, groups, weddings, and special events.

Everline Resort & Spa

Executive Chef

CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

As Executive Chef, you will help shape the culinary identity of Everline Resort & Spa while delivering exceptional dining experiences for resort guests, members, groups, weddings, and special events.

CoralTree Hospitality

Executive Chef

Olympic Valley, CA

$110K - $130K/yr

As Executive Chef, you will help shape the culinary identity of Everline Resort & Spa while delivering exceptional dining experiences for resort guests, members, groups, weddings, and special events.

Oakmont Senior Living

Executive Chef

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Executive Chef for Full Scratch Kitchen Needed Pay Range: $100,000 - $115,000 Our Chefs are the creative force of our growth, the heart of our strength, and the key to our success. We are not looking ...

Oakmont Management Group

Executive Chef

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$82 - $90/hr

Executive Chef for Full Scratch Kitchen Needed Pay Range: $82,000-90,000 Annual Our Chefs are the creative force of our growth, the heart of our strength, and the key to our success. We are not ...

Mavericks Van Nuys

Executive Chef

Los Angeles, CA

$78K - $85K/yr

Executive Chef at Mavericks Van Nuys! Are you passionate about the food industry and have a wealth of kitchen experience? Mavericks Van Nuys, is a brand new dynamic restaurant & in-flight catering ...

New

Oakmont Senior Living

Executive Chef

Oakland, CA

$97K/yr

Executive Chef for Full Scratch Kitchen Needed Pay Range: $ 95,000- $97,000 Our Chefs are the creative force of our growth, the heart of our strength, and the key to our success. We are not looking ...

New

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All JobsChef JobsExecutive Chef JobsExecutive Chef Jobs in California

Executive Chef information

See California salary details

$39.5K

$85.7K

$128.3K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in California is $85,749.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $97,200.00 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 California?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Executive Chef jobs?

Cities in California with the most Executive Chef job openings:

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

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

Executive Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,749 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Executive Chef

the Chef Agency

Palm Springs, CA

$125K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Executive Chef
Location: Palm Springs/Palm Desert area
Salary: $125,000 - $135,000 Base Salary + Bonus
Benefits: MDV, PTO, 401(k), relocation assistance
Property Description: Upscale resort destination featuring multiple dining outlets, banquet operations, catering, and in-room dining.
Qualifications:
  • Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef experience in a high-volume upscale, luxury, or fine dining environment.
  • Strong fine dining background with experience overseeing multiple outlets and banquet operations.
  • Proven success in managing food and labor costs while developing and leading high-performing culinary teams.
Requirements:
  • Lead all culinary operations, including restaurants, banquets, catering, and in-room dining, while maintaining exceptional quality and consistency.
  • Develop seasonal menus, drive operational efficiency, and ensure profitability through effective cost controls.
  • Recruit, mentor, and develop culinary talent while maintaining sanitation, safety, and service standards throughout the property.
Additional Requirement: Valid U.S. work visa required. No sponsorship available.
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About Chef Agency

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

THE MOST TALENTED RECRUITING TEAM IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY. With our support, you’ll have exclusive access to top-tier clients, a robust candidate database, insight from industry experts, and the necessary training and tools needed to build your book of business. Reach out today, and create your own work-life balance while achieving success in the recruiting world.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

2013

Social media

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