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Executive Chef Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Executive Chef Job Code: 502040 Department: Culinary / Food & Beverage Reports To: General Manager / Director of Food & Beverage Supervises: Sous Chefs, Line Cooks, Pastry Chefs, Stewards, Kitchen ...

Executive Chef

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Executive Chef Job Code: 502040 Department: Culinary / Food & Beverage Reports To: General Manager / Director of Food & Beverage Supervises: Sous Chefs, Line Cooks, Pastry Chefs, Stewards, Kitchen ...

Executive Chef

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$25/hr

Looking for an Executive Chef. Must be able to make healthy food. Must be able to manage a kitchen team. Should have a good understanding of the food handling and proper cooking procedures. Please ...

Executive Chef

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$25/hr

Looking for an Executive Chef. Must be able to make healthy food. Must be able to manage a kitchen team. Should have a good understanding of the food handling and proper cooking procedures. Please ...

Executive Chef

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$25/hr

Looking for an Executive Chef. Must be able to make healthy food. Must be able to manage a kitchen team. Should have a good understanding of the food handling and proper cooking procedures. Please ...

Executive Chef

Brea, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

As the Executive Chef you will: * Manage shifts which include daily decision making, scheduling, and planning * Demonstrate superior ingredient knowledge and understanding of culinary trends * Use ...

Executive Chef

Mission Viejo, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

As the Executive Chef you will: * Manage shifts which include daily decision making, scheduling, and planning * Demonstrate superior ingredient knowledge and understanding of culinary trends * Use ...

Executive Chef

Riverside, CA

$74K - $102K/yr

Position Summary The Executive Chef is responsible for the strategic leadership and daily operation of all culinary functions at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, a historic AAA Four Diamond luxury ...

Executive Chef

La Verne, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Working as an Executive Chef , you are responsible for overseeing all culinary functions for a dining account. You will manage and lead a team of associates and oversee all safety and sanitation as ...

Executive Chef

La Verne, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Working as an Executive Chef , you are responsible for overseeing all culinary functions for a dining account. You will manage and lead a team of associates and oversee all safety and sanitation as ...

Corporate Chef

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$140K/yr

Reporting to executive leadership, the Corporate Chef will play a key role in menu development, culinary consistency, operational performance, and future company growth. The position is based out of ...

In the absence of the Executive Chef, the Sous Chef may be called upon to ensure that quality food service is always provided by directing the overall operations of the Culinary Department. All ...

Sous Chef

Murrieta, CA ยท On-site

$24 - $26/hr

In the absence of the Executive Chef, the Sous Chef may be called upon to ensure that quality food service is always provided by directing the overall operations of the Culinary Department. All ...

Chef de Cuisine

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $88K/yr

The Chef de Cuisine supports the Executive Chef and Banquet Chef in supervising daily kitchen operations. This role is responsible for training, leading, and organizing kitchen staff while ensuring ...

Chef de Cuisine

Irvine, CA

$76K - $104K/yr

The Chef de Cuisine supports the Executive Chef and Banquet Chef in supervising daily kitchen operations. This role is responsible for training, leading, and organizing kitchen staff while ensuring ...

Sous Chef (Angel Stadium)

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

THE ROLE Under the direction of the Executive Chef, the Sous Chef is responsible for effectively supporting all culinary operations. This includes oversight of food production, kitchen operations ...

Sous Chef

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Job Purpose The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef and culinary leadership team in delivering exceptional food quality, consistent execution, and efficient kitchen operations. This role is hands ...

Job Purpose The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef and culinary leadership team in delivering exceptional food quality, consistent execution, and efficient kitchen operations. This role is hands ...

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Executive Chef information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$41.7K

$90.6K

$135.6K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Riverside, CA is $90,646.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,600.00 and $102,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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. In high-end restaurants or large hotels, salaries can exceed $100,000, especially with experience and leadership skills in kitchen management and menu development.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Executive Chef jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Executive Chef jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Executive Chef jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Executive Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,646 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description

Job Title: Executive Chef

Job Code: 502040

Department: Culinary / Food & Beverage

Reports To: General Manager / Director of Food & Beverage

Supervises: Sous Chefs, Line Cooks, Pastry Chefs, Stewards, Kitchen Staff

Position Type: Full-Time

________________________________________

Position Summary:

The Executive Chef is the culinary leader of the hotel, responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations, menu development, food quality, kitchen staff supervision, and budget control. This role ensures a high standard of food presentation and guest satisfaction across all dining outlets including restaurants, in-room dining, banquets, and special events. The Executive Chef plays a key strategic and creative role in defining the hotel's culinary identity while maintaining cost-effective operations and adhering to food safety regulations.

________________________________________

Key Responsibilities:

  • Culinary Operations & Leadership
  • Plan, organize, and direct the preparation of all food items across all outlets (restaurant, bar, banquet, in-room dining).
  • Develop and implement seasonal menus that align with guest preferences, food trends, and hotel standards.
  • Supervise and coordinate the activities of all kitchen staff to ensure consistent high-quality food and service.
  • Conduct regular tastings and inspections to maintain quality, consistency, and presentation.


Staff Management & Development

  • Recruit, train, and manage all kitchen personnel, ensuring high levels of motivation and teamwork.
  • Evaluate staff performance and provide coaching, disciplinary action, or promotions as appropriate.
  • Foster a positive and professional kitchen environment that promotes continuous learning and safety.



Financial Oversight & Cost Control

  • Prepare and manage kitchen budgets, food cost targets, labor cost percentages, and monthly financial reports.
  • Monitor food and labor costs daily to maintain profitability while upholding quality standards.
  • Work closely with the purchasing department or vendors to ensure quality sourcing and competitive pricing.

Sanitation & Safety Compliance

  • Ensure all kitchen areas are clean, organized, and in compliance with local health and safety regulations.
  • Enforce proper food handling, hygiene, and sanitation practices among staff.
  • Maintain HACCP documentation and ensure kitchen staff follow all SOPs and safety standards.

Collaboration & Communication

  • Partner with the F&B Manager and General Manager to plan promotions, events, and banquet menus.
  • Attend department head meetings and contribute to the overall hotel strategy.
  • Collaborate with front-of-house teams to ensure alignment between kitchen and service operations.

________________________________________

Qualifications:

  • Degree or diploma in Culinary Arts, Hospitality, or related field preferred.
  • Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in an executive or head chef role in a hotel or high-volume operation.
  • Strong knowledge of international cuisines, fine dining, banquets, and buffet service.
  • Proven leadership and staff development skills.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and time management abilities.
  • Proficiency with kitchen management software and Microsoft Office.
  • Food Safety Certification required (e.g., ServSafe).

________________________________________

Working Conditions:

  • Fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environment.
  • Must be able to work flexible hours including early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Requires standing for long periods, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in hot or humid environments.

Compensation

  • Competitive wage, commensurate with experience.


This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; additional details will be specified by the direct supervisor. The associate may also perform other reasonable business duties assigned by their direct supervisor.ย 

Dreamscape Hospitality reserves the right to change this job description, job responsibilities, duties, and working hours as needs prevail.