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Executive Chef Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Executive Chef

Abingdon, VA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr (+ commission)

We are seeking an Executive Chef to join our team! You will thrive in a fast-paced environment and dedicate time to expanding our clientele base to establish the restaurant's brand and reputation.

Executive Chef

Burke, VA · On-site

$71K - $97K/yr

The Executive Chef is responsible for all food production including that used for restaurants. Develop menus, food purchase specifications and recipes, supervise staff, develop and monitor food and ...

Executive Chef-Reston

Reston, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Description The Executive Chef must be able to cook different and delicious food items, while leading the kitchen staff team and managing the inventory of food and supplies for the week. The ...

Executive Chef

Abingdon, VA · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Job Summary Working as the Executive Chef, you will oversee kitchen operations while maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment for the staff. This position is based in a 116-bed hospital with ...

Executive Chef-Reston

Reston, VA · On-site

$74K - $102K/yr

The Executive Chef must be able to cook different and delicious food items, while leading the kitchen staff team and managing the inventory of food and supplies for the week. The Executive Chef will ...

Executive Chef-Reston

Reston, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Description The Executive Chef must be able to cook different and delicious food items, while leading the kitchen staff team and managing the inventory of food and supplies for the week. The ...

Executive Chef

Abingdon, VA · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Job Summary Working as the Executive Chef, you will oversee kitchen operations while maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment for the staff. This position is based in a 116-bed hospital with ...

Job Summary Working as the Executive Chef, you will oversee kitchen operations while maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment for the staff. This position is based in a 116-bed hospital with ...

Executive Chef I

Springfield, VA · On-site

$78K - $85K/yr

We are seeking an Executive Chef to lead culinary operations for a dynamic, multi-venue dining program serving more than 600 covers daily. This hands-on culinary leader will inspire a culture of ...

We are seeking an Executive Chef to lead culinary operations for a dynamic, multi-venue dining program serving more than 600 covers daily. This hands-on culinary leader will inspire a culture of ...

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$72K - $100K/yr

With all this exciting growth, we are seeking an Executive Chef to join our growing team! Are you looking for: * A way to be a part of something special? * A fun work environment with a serious ...

Executive Chef

Fairfax, VA

$73K - $100K/yr

With all this exciting growth, we are seeking an Executive Chef to join our growing team! Are you looking for: * A way to be a part of something special? * A fun work environment with a serious ...

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$72K - $100K/yr

With all this exciting growth, we are seeking an Executive Chef to join our growing team! Are you looking for: * A way to be a part of something special? * A fun work environment with a serious ...

Executive Chef-Reston

Reston, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

The Executive Chef must be able to cook different and delicious food items, while leading the kitchen staff team and managing the inventory of food and supplies for the week. The Executive Chef will ...

Executive Chef

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

The Executive Chef is the leader for all things culinary at the location - from setting the menu standards to training team members and being the face of Levy on social media. Food is a central part ...

The Executive Chef is the leader for all things culinary at the location - from setting the menu standards to training team members and being the face of Levy on social media. Food is a central part ...

Showing results 41-60

Executive Chef information

See Virginia salary details

$39.7K

$86.1K

$128.9K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Virginia is $86,141.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,900.00 and $97,700.00 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.

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

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Executive Chef jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Executive Chef job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,141 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Executive Chef

The Martha Washington Inn & Spa

Abingdon, VA • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr (+ commission)

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

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Job description

We are seeking an Executive Chef to join our team! You will thrive in a fast-paced environment and dedicate time to expanding our clientele base to establish the restaurant's brand and reputation.

Responsibilities:

  • Oversee day-to-day culinary operations
  • Coordinate food and kitchenware orders
  • Check freshness and quality of ingredients
  • Assist in the development of menu items
  • Standardize recipes and plate presentations
  • Work with management to create a memorable experience for guests

Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in culinary arts, cooking, or other related fields
  • Knowledge of cost and labor systems
  • Passion for food and cooking techniques
  • Strong leadership qualities
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

Company Description

An established operation with a well-deserved reputation of quality service and value.