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Executive Chef Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Buddys Bar-B-Q

SOUS CHEF/COOK - BANQUET HALL

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$41K - $55K/yr

Key Responsibilities: * Assist the Executive Chef in the preparation and execution of banquet menus for weddings, corporate events, and special functions. * Supervise kitchen staff during event prep ...

Buddys Bar-B-Q

SOUS CHEF/COOK - BANQUET HALL

Knoxville, TN

$41K - $55K/yr

Key Responsibilities: * Assist the Executive Chef in the preparation and execution of banquet menus for weddings, corporate events, and special functions. * Supervise kitchen staff during event prep ...

Clayton Homes

Pastry Chef

Maryville, TN · On-site

$21.69 - $27.11/hr

The Pastry Chef works in support of the Sous Chef and Executive Chef to prepare a variety of healthy and high-quality baked goods in a collaborative and fast-paced environment. The Pastry Chef Duties

Clayton Homes

Pastry Chef

Maryville, TN · On-site

$21.69 - $27.11/hr

The Pastry Chef works in support of the Sous Chef and Executive Chef to prepare a variety of healthy and high-quality baked goods in a collaborative and fast-paced environment. The Pastry Chef Duties

Foothills Milling Company Inc

Sous Chef

Maryville, TN · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

Prepare and plate food according to kitchen specifications * Assist Executive Chef with kitchen operations with a goal of increasing revenue and profit * Supervise and coordinate all food preparation ...

TN-Big Orange Grill

Chef

Knoxville, TN

$70K - $100K/yr

Requirements * Proven experience as a Chef, Executive Chef, Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume kitchen * Strong command of food cost, inventory, ordering, and labor management

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF

Maryville, TN · On-site

$19.75/hr

Helps Executive Chef prepare and cook foods. Coordinates activities of cooks and other food-service associates. Assumes responsibility for kitchen and food-service associates in the absence of ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Maryville, TN · On-site

$19.75/hr

Helps Executive Chef prepare and cook foods. Coordinates activities of cooks and other food-service associates. Assumes responsibility for kitchen and food-service associates in the absence of ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Maryville, TN · On-site

$19.75/hr

Helps Executive Chef prepare and cook foods. Coordinates activities of cooks and other food-service associates. Assumes responsibility for kitchen and food-service associates in the absence of ...

Chartwells HE

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Maryville, TN · On-site

$19.75/hr

Helps Executive Chef prepare and cook foods. Coordinates activities of cooks and other food-service associates. Assumes responsibility for kitchen and food-service associates in the absence of ...

BLACKBERRY FARM

Sous Chef - Blackberry Mountain

Walland, TN · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

... the Executive Chef • Contact for all maintenance issues for the kitchen • Maintain a professional atmosphere in the kitchen at all times • Communication with other departments to assure ...

BLACKBERRY FARM

Sous Chef - Blackberry Mountain

Walland, TN · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

... Executive Chef Contact for all maintenance issues for the kitchen Maintain a professional atmosphere in the kitchen at all times Communication with other departments to assure seamless hotel ...

Rainbow Room

Demi Chef de Partie, Culinary

Midtown, TN · On-site

$28.89/hr

Verify that all dishes are uniform and that established portion sizes are adhered to as per the specifications set out by the Executive Chef and all other Culinary Management. Ensure that the daily ...

Oliver Hospitality Payroll

F&B Director

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Works with the Executive Chef and develops menus and food and beverage marketing strategies * Works with the Executive Chef and implements new menus and promotions, such as holiday and special event ...

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All JobsChef JobsExecutive Chef JobsExecutive Chef Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Executive Chef information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$38.2K

$83.1K

$124.3K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Oak Ridge, TN is $83,067.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,400.00 and $94,200.00 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 Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What are popular job titles related to Executive Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

For Executive Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Executive Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Executive Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Executive Chef jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Executive Chef job openings:

Executive Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,067 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

SOUS CHEF/COOK - BANQUET HALL

Buddys Bar-B-Q

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$41K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description:

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Sous Chef/Cook to join our banquet hall culinary team. The ideal candidate will assist in planning, preparing, and executing high-volume banquet events, ensuring consistent food quality, efficient kitchen operations, and exceptional guest satisfaction. This role requires strong culinary skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist the Executive Chef in the preparation and execution of banquet menus for weddings, corporate events, and special functions.
  • Supervise kitchen staff during event prep and service; provide direction, training, and support.
  • Ensure all food is prepared and presented according to the banquet standards and event specifications.
  • Maintain high standards of food quality, hygiene, and safety in compliance with health regulations.
  • Coordinate timing and execution of meal service with front-of-house staff.
  • Oversee food storage, inventory rotation, and minimize waste through efficient planning.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen at all times.
  • Step in and lead the kitchen during the Executive Chef’s absence.
Requirements:

Qualifications:

  • Proven experience as a sous chef or line cook in a banquet, hotel, or high-volume kitchen environment.
  • Culinary degree or equivalent experience preferred but not required.
  • Strong knowledge of food preparation techniques, kitchen safety, and sanitation.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and time management skills.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.