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Executive Chef Jobs in Lancaster, SC (NOW HIRING)

Napa at stonecrest

Executive Chef

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$80K/yr

Right now, we're looking for an Executive Chef who's passionate about curating amazing dishes-someone who can share that passion with our guests and elevate their experience. Our Culture At Napa ...

Napa at stonecrest

Executive Sous Chef

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$60K/yr

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF SUMMARY As the Executive Sous Chef, you play a pivotal role in shaping the culinary identity and success of the restaurant. This leadership position requires a creative and ...

Napa at Kingsley

Executive Sous Chef

Fort Mill, SC · On-site

$57K - $72K/yr

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF SUMMARY As the Executive Sous Chef, you play a pivotal role in shaping the culinary identity and success of the restaurant. This leadership position requires a creative and ...

Napa at Kingsley

Executive Sous Chef

Fort Mill, SC · On-site

$57K - $72K/yr

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF SUMMARY As the Executive Sous Chef, you play a pivotal role in shaping the culinary identity and success of the restaurant. This leadership position requires a creative and ...

Napa at Kingsley

Executive Sous Chef

Fort Mill, SC · On-site

$57K - $72K/yr

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF SUMMARY As the Executive Sous Chef, you play a pivotal role in shaping the culinary identity and success of the restaurant. This leadership position requires a creative and ...

Compass Group

HEALTHCARE EXECUTIVE CHEF II

Rock Hill, SC · On-site

$80K - $83K/yr

Job Summary Working as the Executive Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations while maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment for the staff. You will prepare or direct ...

Compass Group

HEALTHCARE EXECUTIVE CHEF II

Rock Hill, SC · On-site

$80K - $83K/yr

Job Summary Working as the Executive Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations while maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment for the staff. You will prepare or direct ...

Compass Group

HEALTHCARE EXECUTIVE CHEF II

Rock Hill, SC · On-site

$80K - $83K/yr

Job Summary Working as the Executive Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations while maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment for the staff. You will prepare or direct ...

Olde Mecklenburg Brewery LLC

Sous Chef

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$52K - $65K/yr

Executive Chef Location: Ballantyne, Charlotte, NC Type: Salaried, full-time If you want to be a key player in a high-volume scratch kitchen inside one of the most iconic craft beer destinations in ...

NAPA Bistro & Wine Bar - Glenwood

Sous Chef

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

As Sous Chef, you'll partner closely with the Executive Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations. You'll play a key role in maintaining the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and team ...

Invited

Sous Chef

Marvin, NC

$46K - $63K/yr

Reporting Structure • Reports to the Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef Day to Day * Ensure proper preparation, presentation, and excellence of all food products, adhering to portion sizes and ...

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All JobsChef JobsExecutive Chef JobsExecutive Chef Jobs in Lancaster, SC

Executive Chef information

See Lancaster, SC salary details

$34.1K

$74.1K

$110.9K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Lancaster, SC is $74,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $84,000.00 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 Lancaster, SC?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Lancaster, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Executive Chef jobs in Lancaster, SC?

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

What cities near Lancaster, SC are hiring for Executive Chef jobs?

Cities near Lancaster, SC with the most Executive Chef job openings:

Executive Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Lancaster, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,102 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Executive Chef

Little Mama's Italian Kitchen

Charlotte, NC

$95K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Little Mama's Italian| Executive Chef

Since its debut in 2020, Little Mama's Italian-inspired by the nostalgic Italian-American restaurants of the 1960s and 70s-has become one of Charlotte's premier Italian dining destinations. A sister concept to the beloved Mama Ricotta's, Little Mama's delivers classic charm, heartfelt hospitality, and elevated Italian-American cuisine in a vibrant, welcoming setting.

Why Choose a Career with FS Food Group?

Competitive base salary: up to $95,000 depending on experience

Achievable monthly bonus structure

100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance

Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at 6 months

Executive Chef Responsibilities

Execute and oversee a diverse, high-quality Italian-American menu

Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff to ensure consistency and excellence

Manage food costs, inventory, ordering, and waste control

Maintain and exceed food safety and sanitation standards

Collaborate with leadership on seasonal features and menu innovation

Foster a positive, professional, and team-oriented kitchen culture

What We're Looking For

Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a high-volume, full-service restaurant

Strong knowledge of Italian-American cuisine and culinary techniques

Exceptional leadership, communication, and team-building skills

Creativity and passion for menu development

Solid understanding of food cost control and kitchen operations

ServSafe / Food Safety Manager Certification (preferred)

A genuine passion for hospitality and delivering memorable guest experiences

Be Part of Our Story

At Little Mama's Italian, we're more than a restaurant-we're a destination for those who love authentic Italian-American cuisine and warm, genuine hospitality. If you're a driven culinary leader who thrives in a supportive, fast-paced environment, we'd love to meet you.

Apply today and join FS Food Group as our next Executive Chef.

Little Mama's Italian Kitchen is inspired by the old classic Italian restaurants in New England from the 60s and 70s. Really well done classics, without pretense. A stiff cocktail and a bowl of fresh pasta or a knob of just-made mozzarella are the simple but elegant menu items to look out for here. But the broiled steak will bowl you over too.

Education:{"credentialcategory":"high school","@type":"EducationalOccupationalCredential"}Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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