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Executive Chef Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Culinaire Staffing

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $111K/yr

Executive Chef | High-Volume, Upscale Restaurant Relocation Assistance Available About the Role: We are seeking an exceptional Executive Chef to lead culinary operations at our chef-driven, high ...

Elizabeth's

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

The Executive Chef will oversee all aspects of the kitchen, including designing and managing the menu, supervising kitchen staff, ensuring food quality and safety, and maintaining inventory.

FTK Hospitlatity DC

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Executive Chef - Full Time FTK Hospitality Baltimore | Washington, DC FTK Hospitality DC is seeking a dedicated Executive Chef to lead the kitchen at one of Baltimore's most acclaimed upscale coastal ...

Clyde's Restaurant Group

Be Seen First

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Join Clyde's Restaurant Group as an Executive Chef -- a culinary leadership opportunity within one of the DC Metro area's most respected and enduring restaurant groups, known for upscale American ...

Clyde's Restaurant Group

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$100K - $130K/yr

Join Clyde's Restaurant Group as an Executive Chef -- a culinary leadership opportunity within one of the DC Metro area's most respected and enduring restaurant groups, known for upscale American ...

Clyde's Restaurant Group

Be Seen First

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Join Clyde's Restaurant Group as an Executive Chef -- a culinary leadership opportunity within one of the DC Metro area's most respected and enduring restaurant groups, known for upscale American ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus Opportunity (Up to 20% of Base Salary) Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA

$85K - $95K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus Opportunity (Up to 20% of Base Salary) Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading ...

Restaurant Associates

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus Opportunity (Up to 20% of Base Salary) Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading ...

Invited

Executive Chef

Leesburg, VA

$72K - $99K/yr

Executive Chef at River Creek Club | Premier Golf & Country Club in Leesburg, VA Championship Golf on the Potomac River Creek Club is home to an 18-hole championship course that blends thoughtful ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus Opportunity (Up to 20% of Base Salary) Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading ...

New CHG US Holdings LLC

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$96K - $110K/yr

EXECUTIVE CHEF We are seeking an entrepreneurial minded Executive Chef to lead the day-to-day culinary operations of our DC location. Reporting to the General Manager, the Executive Chef will have ...

Retirement Unlimited, Inc.

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 ...

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Executive Chef information

See Washington salary details

$45.3K

$98.4K

$147.2K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Washington is $98,407.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $111,600.00 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 Washington?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Washington are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Executive Chef jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Executive Chef job openings:

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

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

Executive Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,407 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Executive Chef

Culinaire Staffing

Washington, DC • On-site

$80K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Executive Chef | High-Volume, Upscale Restaurant

Relocation Assistance Available

About the Role: We are seeking an exceptional Executive Chef to lead culinary operations at our chef-driven, high-volume restaurant. In our kitchen, people shape experiences—you will define our culinary identity, craft memorable dining experiences for our guests, and inspire a talented culinary team to achieve excellence.

As Executive Chef, you will own the end-to-end culinary vision, guest experience, and kitchen operations. This role demands a proven leader who balances creative excellence with high-volume operational efficiency, fiscal discipline, and strong team mentorship.

Key Responsibilities

  • Culinary Leadership & Vision: Seasonal menu changes, recipe standardization, and high-volume plate execution to maintain top-tier culinary standards.

  • Team Development & Culture: Recruit, train, schedule, and mentor all BOH personnel. Build a collaborative, accountable, and growth-focused kitchen culture.

  • Financial & Operational Management: Drive kitchen profitability by managing inventory, vendor relationships, purchasing, food costs, and labor targets. Oversee kitchen equipment maintenance and operational workflows.

  • Cross-Functional Synergy: Partner with FOH leadership to conduct daily pre-shift meetings, training service staff on menu storytelling, sourcing, preparation techniques, and potential allergens.

  • Guest & Floor Engagement: Maintain an active presence in the dining room as needed to connect with guests, support front-of-house operations, and act as the brand ambassador for the kitchen.

  • Compliance & Safety: Enforce strict compliance with state and federal health codes, sanitation standards, OSHA regulations, and Department of Labor guidelines.

    Benefits & Compensation

    • Highly competitive compensation package

    • Paid monthly bonus program based on KPI achievements

    • Career advancement and growth opportunities

    • Relocation support for qualified out-of-market candidates

Qualifications & Experience

  • Experience: Proven track record as an Executive Chef in a high-volume, upscale, or fine-dining chef-driven environment exceeding $ 7 million

  • Business Acumen: Strong proficiency in P&L management, food and labor cost control, inventory software, and kitchen scheduling.

  • Leadership Skills: Outstanding communication, organizational, and teaching abilities with a passion for developing culinary talent.