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Executive Chef Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef (6784)

Bloomington, IL ยท On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Sous Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences for our guests, overseeing & participating in the daily kitchen operations (opening/closing ...

Sous Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences for our guests, overseeing & participating in the daily kitchen operations (opening/closing ...

FOOD SERVICE MANAGER- NORMAL, IL

Normal, IL ยท On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

As a member of Eurest's leadership and professional support team, you will help our 16,000 chefs, and in-unit associates excel as they deliver world-class meals in corporate cafes and executive ...

FOOD SERVICE MANAGER- NORMAL, IL

Normal, IL ยท On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

As a member of Eurest's leadership and professional support team, you will help our 16,000 chefs, and in-unit associates excel as they deliver world-class meals in corporate cafes and executive ...

Showing results 21-37

Executive Chef information

See Normal, IL salary details

$39.1K

$84.9K

$127.1K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Normal, IL is $84,943.00, 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Normal, IL?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Normal, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,943 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Sous Chef (6784)

Ancho & Agave

Bloomington, IL โ€ข On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Ancho & Agave is seeking a hardworking and reliable Sous Chef to help us create the ultimate dining experience forย our guests. If you are passionate about the culinary arts and committed to professional success, APPLY TODAY!ย 

Qualified candidates must be motivated, friendly, team-oriented, honest, and comfortable with managing people. Mustย be available to work consistently, act in a professional manner & have a positive attitude.ย 

Sous Chef responsibilities include but are not limited to creating exceptional culinary experiences for our guests,ย overseeing & participating in the daily kitchen operations (opening/closing procedures, receiving, food prep, cooking),ย training kitchen staff following company policies & procedures, upholding standards for food preparation and plating,ย food safety and sanitation, and workplace safety, controlling operational costs, taking inventories, and ordering foodย and supplies.ย 

Sous Chef Skills & Qualifications:

  • Minimum 1 years of experience as a Sous Chef in a full-service, high-volume restaurant.ย 
  • Current Food Safety and Sanitation certification.ย 
  • Strong culinary skills including food preparation and cooking best practices.ย 
  • Working knowledge of restaurant industry operations, safety, and sanitation standards.ย 
  • Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively (verbal and written).ย 
  • Ability to lead a diverse team with varying degrees of experience.ย 
  • Strong leadership skills with ability to motivate employees and obtain positive results.ย 
  • Strong time management, organizational, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.ย 
  • Ability to uphold vendor relationships and troubleshoot any daily challenges with a customer service representative.ย 
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously to deliver on-time results.ย 
  • Must be able to travel away from home for 35-45 days to participate in management training.ย 
  • Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.ย 
  • Must be able to work a variety of morning, afternoon, evening & late-night work shifts, to match operational needs.ย 
  • Ability to work 45-55 hour work weeks. Work week hours will vary based on operational needs.ย 
  • Must have exceptional hygiene and grooming habits.ย 
  • Must have reliable transportation to and from work.ย 
  • High level of stamina to work on feet for extended periods.ย 
  • Must be able to stand, sit, push, pull, reach, bend, stoop and frequently lift up to 50 lbs.ย 
  • Must be 21 years or age or olderย 

ย Sous Chef Employment Benefits:

  • Competitive Salary ($50,000-$65,000 annually, based on experience)
  • Performance-based Bonus Program (up to $5,000 annually)
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life Insuranceย 
  • Paid Vacation upon hireย 
  • 401(k) with company matchย 
  • Career advancement opportunitiesย 
  • Allowance for off-duty diningย 
  • Relocation assistanceย 

Ancho & Agave was born out of a flavor-obsessed craving for fresh, delicious Mexican food with a side of fun. Weโ€™reย more than just tacos, amigos and tequila โ€ฆ weโ€™re the champions of bringing together quality ingredients, refreshingย beverages and good times for a crave-worthy experience in a casual setting.ย 

Ancho & Agave is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all persons regardless of age, race, creed,ย color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information,ย military or veteran's status, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State, or local law.

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