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Executive Chef Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Beatrix

Executive Chef

Oak Brook, IL

$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

$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 ...

Fabio Viviani Hospitality Group

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$95K - $98K/yr

The Executive Chef will champion Seville's culinary vision by bringing Mediterranean flavors to life through every dish. As the leader of the culinary team, the Executive Chef is responsible for ...

Fabio Viviani Hospitality Group

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $98K/yr

The Executive Chef will champion Seville's culinary vision by bringing Mediterranean flavors to life through every dish. As the leader of the culinary team, the Executive Chef is responsible for ...

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?

Invited Clubs

Executive Chef

Riverwoods, IL

$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?

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 · On-site

$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 ...

MAXBY HOSPITALITY INC

Executive Chef (4231)

Lombard, IL

$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 ...

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 ...

East Bank Club

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL

$135K - $145K/yr

Job Details The Executive Chef is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational excellence, and financial performance of all culinary operations at East Bank Club. This role oversees the ...

CIEL VERNON HILLS LLC

Executive Chef

Vernon Hills, IL

$69K - $96K/yr

Executive Chef REPORTS TO: Food & Beverage Director FLSA: Nonexempt OUR MISSION: We are united in our mission to offer seniors an elevated way of life, where comfort, connection, and joy thrive.

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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 24, 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:

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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

Beatrix

Oak Brook, IL

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

About US

Beatrix is a neighborhood coffeehouse, restaurant and meeting place, featuring healthy meets delicious menu options plus in-house pastries and signature cookies.

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 benefits, career-long training and growth opportunities.

A Few of Our Benefits:

  • Competitive Salary
  • Quarterly Bonus
  • Paid Time Off - including Paid Holidays, Personal Days & Vacation
  • 401(k)
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical Insurance
  • Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Life, Accident Protection & Critical Illness Insurance
  • Domestic Partner Benefits
  • Restaurant Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program - focusing on a commitment to mental health & wellness

 

Why Work With Lettuce? 

Lettuce is a culinary-driven restaurant company with a genuine commitment to our people: we welcome unique perspectives and nurture diverse talents at 130+ locations, supported by our Culture of Caring. If you're ready to be a part of what we do next, then explore your possibilities at Lettuce and apply today! We participate in E-Verify / Participamos en E-Verify

Responsibilities
  • Oversee, monitor and ensure effective and efficient BOH operations including monitoring and ensuring consistent purchasing standards and inventory, and tracking and controlling food costs
  • Provide guidance and leadership to hourly and management teams while fostering our Culture of Caring
  • Research, develop and execute seasonal menus and new menu items as directed in partnership with divisional leaders 
  • Ensure effective BOH training in collaboration with divisional trainers and chefs
  • Conduct quarterly in-restaurant audit of BOH standard operating procedures and systems
  • Partner with designated chefs to purchase and order food product and supplies for the restaurant
  • Partner with GM and/or designated managers/chefs to regularly review and maintain recipe books
  • Create new and maintain existing recipe costing in partnership with GM and designated chefs
  • Partner with GM and management team to interview, hire, onboard, train, supervise and develop all BOH employees and teams as needed
  • Model and promote teamwork across all teams
  • Use tact and good judgment when dealing with challenges pertaining to guests, vendors and employees, and respond with patience and courtesy
  • Work a variety of days and shifts (including early mornings, late nights and weekends) at multiple sites with or without overnight travel, as needed
  • Move and lift up to 10 pounds, frequently move and/or lift up to 25 pounds, occasionally move and/or lift up to 50 pounds
Qualifications
  • 5+ years of Executive Chef experience in a full-service restaurant
  • Ability to lead and develop teams
  • Skilled in managing BOH systems
Salary RangeUSD $70,000.00 - USD $100,000.00 /Yr.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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