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Executive Chef Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Driven by a team of in-house executive chefs, sommeliers, and seasoned hospitality professionals, our group is committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Each concept we develop is a ...

Bartender

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$200 - $500/day

Driven by a team of in-house executive chefs, sommeliers, and seasoned hospitality professionals, our group is committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Each concept we develop is a ...

Server

Huntsville, AL

$200 - $500/day

Driven by a team of in-house executive chefs, sommeliers, and seasoned hospitality professionals, our group is committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Each concept we develop is a ...

Driven by a team of in-house executive chefs, sommeliers, and seasoned hospitality professionals, our group is committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Each concept we develop is a ...

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Executive Chef information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$37.5K

$81.5K

$121.9K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Decatur, AL is $81,452.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $92,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

How much is the salary of an executive chef?

The salary of an executive chef typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the establishment. In high-end restaurants or large hotels, salaries can exceed $100,000, especially with additional benefits and bonuses.

What are Executive Chefs?

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 does Gordon Ramsay pay his executive chef?

Gordon Ramsay's executive chefs typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the restaurant's size. Compensation may also include bonuses, benefits, and opportunities for career advancement within his restaurant group.

Do executive chefs get paid well?

Executive chefs typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on location, experience, and the size of the establishment. In general, they are among the higher-paid roles in the culinary industry, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits. Their compensation reflects leadership responsibilities, culinary skills, and management duties.

What does an executive chef actually do?

An executive chef oversees the entire kitchen operation, including menu planning, managing staff, ensuring food quality, and controlling costs. They coordinate between kitchen staff and management, often handle administrative tasks, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Executive Chef jobs in Decatur, AL? For Executive Chef jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Executive Chef jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Executive Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,452 per year, or $39.2 per hour.
Chef Manager - Alabama A&M - Huntsville, AL

Chef Manager - Alabama A&M - Huntsville, AL

Aramark

Normal, AL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago


Aramark rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 1,243 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

361st of 451 rated business services


Job description

Job Description

We know that a Chef's job isn't only about the food. It takes skills, dedication, patience, and the right opportunities. We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer service and food experiences. Reporting to the General Manager, you'll take a hands-on approach in focusing on team development, culinary expertise, safety protocol, and client relations. Our Chef Manager will also play a key role in helping us meet budget requirements and execute company-delivered programs. 

Just like you, we're passionate about everything we do, and we'll make sure you have the right growth opportunities to reach the peak of your career. 

Job Responsibilities
  • Train and manage kitchen personnel and supervise/coordinate all related culinary activities 

  • Estimate food consumption and requisition or purchase food 

  • Select and develop recipes as well as standardize production recipes to ensure consistent quality 

  • Establish presentation technique and quality standards, and plan and price menus 

  • Ensure proper equipment operation/maintenance and ensure proper safety and sanitation in kitchen 

  • Oversee special catering events and may also offer culinary instruction and/or demonstrates culinary techniques 

At Aramark, developing new skills and doing what it takes to get the job done make a positive impact for our employees and for our customers. In order to meet our commitments, job duties may change or new ones may be assigned without formal notice. 

Qualifications
  • Requires 2-3 years of experience in a related position  

  • Requires 2-3 years of post-high school education or equivalent experience 

  • Culinary degree preferred 

  • Requires advanced knowledge of the principles and practices within the food profession 

  • Requires experiential knowledge of management of people and/or problems 

  • Requires oral, reading and written communication skills 

Education
About Aramark

Our Mission

Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet.

At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

About Aramark

The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food and facilities in 15 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at http://www.aramarkcareers.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.


What Aramark employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Aramark logo

About Aramark

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food, facilities, and uniform services in 19 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Industry

Hospitality services and facilities support services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US