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Executive Chef Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

the Chef Agency

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Qualification: * 5+ years of Executive Chef experience in an upscale Italian restaurant, steakhouse, or fine dining environment * Strong background in Italian cuisine and premium steakhouse ...

Beatrix

Executive Chef

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Overview Beatrix Oakbrook is now hiring an EXECUTIVE CHEF! Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants is looking for a Executive Chef with 2 years of Executive Chef experience. We reward our teams with ...

Confidential Search

Executive Chef

Naperville, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Executive Chef - Upscale Steakhouse | Naperville, IL Salary: Up to $85,000 + Performance Bonus + Outstanding Benefits Bring your culinary vision to one of Naperville's premier dining destinations. We ...

Beatrix

Executive Chef

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Overview Beatrix Oakbrook is now hiring an EXECUTIVE CHEF! Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants is looking for a Executive Chef with 2 years of Executive Chef experience. We reward our teams with ...

Kings Bowl of Rosemont

Executive Chef

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

KINGS DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT IS SEEKING AN EXECUTIVE CHEF Now is the time to join an exciting and fun team. We're growing and looking for someone who wants to grow with us! Are you interested in:

Mercadito Lincoln Park

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead our culinary team, drive operational excellence, and continue elevating our food quality and consistency. Position Summary The Executive Chef is ...

Invited Clubs

Executive Chef

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

$72K - $100K/yr

Executive Chef at Ravinia Green Country Club | Riverwoods, IL | Invited Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the success of the business?

Invited

Executive Chef

Riverwoods, IL

$74K - $102K/yr

Executive Chef at Ravinia Green Country Club | Riverwoods, IL | Invited Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the success of the business?

ClubCorp

Executive Chef

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Executive Chef at Ravinia Green Country Club | Riverwoods, IL | Invited Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the success of the business?

Jobs on Cash

Executive Chef

Naperville, IL · On-site

$71K - $98K/yr

Executive Chef Location: Naperville IL Employment Type: Full-time Responsibilities: * Oversee all culinary operations at Hunt Valley Country Club, ensuring the highest standards of food quality ...

The Garlands of Barrington

Executive Chef

Barrington, IL

$110K - $120K/yr

Executive Chef Base Salary $110,000 - $120,000 (With a discretionary Annual Incentive Bonus) Role Definition: The accomplished and passionate Executive Chef is responsible for leading the culinary ...

Gecko Hospitality

Executive Chef

Downers Grove, IL

$100K - $130K/yr

Executive Chef - Full-Service Hotel Location: Near Aurora, Illinois Salary: $100,000-$130,000 annually Bonus: Annual Bonus Incentive Plan The Opportunity We are seeking an accomplished Executive Chef ...

Ancho & Agave

Executive Chef (4231)

Lombard, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Executive Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences for our guests, overseeing the daily operations of the restaurant's kitchen, interviewing ...

MAXBY HOSPITALITY INC

Executive Chef (4231)

Lombard, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Executive Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences for our guests, overseeing the daily operations of the restaurant's kitchen, interviewing ...

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All JobsChef JobsExecutive Chef JobsExecutive Chef Jobs in Elgin, IL

Executive Chef information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$39.5K

$85.9K

$128.5K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Elgin, IL is $85,888.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,700.00 and $97,400.00 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 Elgin, IL?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Elgin, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Executive Chef jobs in Elgin, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Executive Chef jobs in Elgin, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Executive Chef jobs in Elgin, IL are:

What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Executive Chef jobs?

Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Executive Chef job openings:

Executive Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,888 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL • On-site

the Chef Agency
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about the Chef Agencyexternal

$125K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 5 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description


Location: Chicago, IL
Salary: $125K
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, 401K, Dining Benefits, Free Parking
A legendary Chicago steakhouse is seeking an Executive Chef to preserve the restaurant's rich culinary heritage while leading kitchen operations.
Qualification:
  • 5+ years of Executive Chef experience in an upscale Italian restaurant, steakhouse, or fine dining environment
  • Strong background in Italian cuisine and premium steakhouse operations
  • Proven financial acumen with experience managing food cost, labor, budgeting, inventory, purchasing, and overall P&L performance

Responsibilities:
  • Lead all daily culinary operations while maintaining the restaurant's historic standards of quality, consistency, and execution
  • Preserve the integrity of signature recipes and the guest experience that has defined the restaurant for generations
  • Manage food and labor costs, inventory, purchasing, and overall kitchen financial performance
  • Collaborate with ownership and leadership on menu enhancements while respecting the restaurant's legacy
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About Chef Agency

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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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