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Executive Chef Jobs in Columbus, MS (NOW HIRING)

Altius Search Group

Executive Chef

Starkville, MS · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

The Executive Chef is to direct food ordering, preparation, production, and control for all food outlets and banquet facilities of the hotel. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Responsible for enhancing the ...

Hotel Madelon

Executive Chef

Starkville, MS · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

The Executive Chef is to direct food ordering, preparation, production, and control for all food outlets and banquet facilities of the hotel. The Executive Chef reports to Food and Beverage Manager ...

Charlestowne Hotels

Executive Chef

Starkville, MS · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

The Executive Chef is to direct food ordering, preparation, production, and control for all food outlets and banquet facilities of the hotel. The Executive Chef reports to Food and Beverage Manager ...

Harveys - Columbus

Cook / BOH Crew Member

Columbus, MS

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Would you like to work under the best Executives Chefs in the area and learn valuable culinary skills? * Are you the type person that enjoys working at a fast pace with a group, while following ...

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Executive Chef information

See Columbus, MS salary details

$39.1K

$84.9K

$127K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Columbus, MS is $84,905.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,900.00 and $96,300.00 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 Columbus, MS?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Columbus, MS are:

What are popular job titles related to Executive Chef jobs in Columbus, MS?

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

What job categories do people searching Executive Chef jobs in Columbus, MS look for?

The top searched job categories for Executive Chef jobs in Columbus, MS are:

What cities near Columbus, MS are hiring for Executive Chef jobs?

Cities near Columbus, MS with the most Executive Chef job openings:

Executive Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Columbus, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,905 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Executive Chef

Altius Search Group

Starkville, MS • On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Our client is currently building out a new boutique hotel in Starkville, Mississippi and is searching for their opening Executive Chef. The hotel is slated to open in August 2027.
The Executive Chef is to direct food ordering, preparation, production, and control for all food outlets and banquet facilities of the hotel.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Responsible for enhancing the food product that is presented to guests
Make changes that respond to the marketplace and to guests' needs, both present and anticipated
Recommend changes to the food product
Use market research to develop new products
Responsible for maintaining quality of food product and ensuring consistency in food delivery and standards
Work in support of team goals and measures effectiveness through the Food & Beverage profit and service performance of the hotel
Responsible for the selection, training, and development of the personnel within the department
Able to exercise hire and fire discretion within the hotel's policies
Oversee divisional matters as they relate to federal, state and local employment and civil rights laws
Control the elements that determine profit and loss
Responsible for all major operating expenses
Set margins and manage the business against projections
Participate, support and make recommendations for ongoing hotel programs with continuous improvement in networking
Professionally represent the hotel in community and industry organizations and events
Participate as a team player with all departments
Provide constructive feedback to all departments
Be a leader and a role model to all employees
KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE:
3 years' experience as a Executive Chef, Exec Sous Chef or CDC, preferably with a full-service property
Management experience required
Graduate of an accredited Culinary School program preferred
Must have experience at properties of similar size and quality
Proficiency in Microsoft applications is required
Verifiable record improving measurable metrics relation to the Food Department and guest satisfaction
SKILLS:
Clear, concise written and verbal communication skills
Excellent service & communication skills
Strong technical skills
Excellent time management skills
Strong organizational skills
Computer and telephone skills required
Excellent listening skills
Exceptional detail in follow-up
Excellent safety and sanitation skills
Creative problem solving skills
Basic mathematical skills required
Strong attention to detail

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