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Executive Chef Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Food Service - Sous Chef at Seneca Park Zoo

Rochester, NY

$49K - $66K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Executive Chef Who are we : For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring ...

Food Service - Sous Chef at Seneca Park Zoo

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Executive Chef Who are we : For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring ...

Sous Chef

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

... Executive Chef. • Prepare and cook food according to standards and monitor food production of associates. • Ensure opening and closing procedures are completed per checklists. • Ensure ...

Sous Chef

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

... Executive Chef. • Prepare and cook food according to standards and monitor food production of associates. • Ensure opening and closing procedures are completed per checklists. • Ensure ...

Junior Sous Chef (Various Campuses)

Rochester, NY

$19.25 - $24.10/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Performs other duties as assigned by the Food Service Manager and/or Executive Chef Candidate Requirements: * High School and GED- required * Reliable transportation (position operates multiple ...

Sous Chef Trainee

Pittsford, NY · On-site

$2.5K/day

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Wegmans Culinary Explore the many culinary career opportunities available at Wegmans, from Prep Cook to Executive Chef. Learn about our career paths, training programs, and the heart of what makes ...

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Catering Chef

Spencerport, NY · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Chef's" procedures and the way we do things ● Strict cleanliness and sanitation as well as organization ● Capable of managing themselves as well as others if asked to(on-site) ● Putting away ...

Household Cook

Rochester, NY

$16 - $19.65/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Daily returns to the Executive Chef, complete production and set-up sheet. * Responsible for immediately reporting malfunctions of equipment. * Responsible for daily, weekly and monthly cleaning ...

Household Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16 - $19.65/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Daily returns to the Executive Chef, complete production and set-up sheet. * Responsible for immediately reporting malfunctions of equipment. * Responsible for daily, weekly and monthly cleaning ...

Grill Cook

Rochester, NY

$14 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare service line for operation as instructed by Executive Chef and/or Management. The line is to be garnished properly at all times. * Check quality of food items, making sure they meet standards ...

Grill Cook

Rochester, NY

$14 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare service line for operation as instructed by Executive Chef and/or Management. The line is to be garnished properly at all times. * Check quality of food items, making sure they meet standards ...

Grill Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare service line for operation as instructed by Executive Chef and/or Management. The line is to be garnished properly at all times. * Check quality of food items, making sure they meet standards ...

Grill Cook

Rochester, NY

$14 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare service line for operation as instructed by Executive Chef and/or Management. The line is to be garnished properly at all times. * Check quality of food items, making sure they meet standards ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

  • PTO

Communicates any changes on production sheets to the Sous Chef and/or the Executive Chef for revisions. * Provides all necessary diet restrictions as recorded on production sheets. * Communicates any ...

Cook

Rochester, NY

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

  • PTO

Communicates any changes on production sheets to the Sous Chef and/or the Executive Chef for revisions. * Provides all necessary diet restrictions as recorded on production sheets. * Communicates any ...

Prep Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Work closely with the Executive Chef and/or Sous Chef to keep residents satisfied with food and dining programs. * Maintain kitchen in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition at all times. * Adhere to ...

Banquet Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Vision insurance Position Summary A Banquet Chef with Farmhouse Table Food is an engaging, organized, and customer service focused individual who works in conjunction with the Executive Chef, Sous ...

Showing results 21-40

Executive Chef information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$39.5K

$85.7K

$128.3K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Rochester, NY is $85,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,500.00 and $97,200.00 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 Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Executive Chef jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Executive Chef jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Executive Chef jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Executive Chef jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Executive Chef jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Executive Chef job openings:

Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,728 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Food Service - Sous Chef at Seneca Park Zoo

ssagroup

Rochester, NY

$49K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Sous Chef

Reports to: Executive Chef

Who are we:

For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused.

We bring together admissions, culinary, and retail with innovation and human connection to shape a seamless guest journey.

Our focus is on people, innovation, and operational intelligence as a means to create special moments with lasting impact. We call it 452 Hospitality, the foundation of how we serve our partners and their communities.

Responsibilities 

  • Live out 452 Hospitality by delivering warm, welcoming, and memorable experiences for every guest and client.          

  • Create Competitive quality products.             
  • Supervise and participate in creating high-quality products for events and food service locations.       
  • Assist in menu pricing and preparation.         
  • Estimate food consumption for events and request necessary products.        
  • Demonstrate new cooking techniques.         
  • Train, coach, counsel, and resolve problems.              
  • Comply with all food safety regulations and practices.            
  • Implement and enforce sanitary practices for food handling, general cleanliness, and maintenance of kitchen and/or dining areas.               
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations.                
  • Monitor and track proper cooking and holding temperatures.            
  • Support the management of payroll and controllable profit within established guidelines.
  • Oversee quality, product levels, and inventory of products.    
  • Manage employees in accordance with state and federal laws.           
  • Incorporate sustainable resources into the culinary selections.           
  • Perform specialty projects as assigned by the Executive Chef.             
  • Respond to guest requests and take action to ensure client satisfaction.         
  • Perform other tasks as deemed necessary.  
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
  • Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.

Job Requirements 

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to articulate to our client, General Manager and HQ personnel.
  • Proven leadership skills with an understanding of the importance of team building/development, while fostering partnerships.
  • Exceptional problem-solving/decision-making skills combined with the ability to be organized.
  • Demonstrates financial management, merchandising, analytical, planning, and leadership skills.
  • Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.
  • Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions.
  • Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (35lbs) as necessary to operate, which entails lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above.
  • Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed.

IDEA + Belonging 

  • Promote an inclusive & supportive approach within the Brand team, with networking continuing at all units.
  • Focuses on removing barriers and empowering growth and opportunity for team members at all levels.
  • Leads by example through Sustainability/Conservation efforts; displays knowledge of efforts in business application as well as giving adequate opportunity for teaching to unit staff as necessary. 
  • Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On opportunities of giving back.

Previous Experience

  • Three years of food preparation experience.
  • ServSafe or Food Handling Certified.
  • Knowledge of HAACP
  • Culinary training, must be 18 or older.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts or working conditions associated with this job description. SSA Group reserves the right to revise the job description or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change (i.e. emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs or technological developments) 

Compensation and Benefits

  • Full-Time, non-exempt, eligible for overtime pay.
  • Paid Time Off plan: up to 144 hours based on tenure.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and other voluntary benefits for you and your family; employee premiums applicable.
  • Participation in a 401(k) program with a 15% company match (must be 21 years or older, eligible after one year of employment with 1,000 hours worked, available to enroll during Open Enrollment Periods).
  • SSA Paid Benefit: Up to 120 hours of Paid Leave for qualifying reasons, including Parental Leave and your or your family’s serious medical conditions.
  • Up to 40 hours Paid Bereavement.
  • On-Demand Pay Program: Get access to a portion of earned wages before payday.
  • Meal Plan & Employee Discounts where applicable
  • Tuition Discount through Partnership College
  • Holiday pay of 1.5× the regular rate is provided for hours worked on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.
  • Paid sick leave is provided in accordance with applicable state and local laws. Accrual rates, caps, and usage rules vary by location. 

Locations include: Arizona, California, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Washington, D.C..  Colorado: Employees accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 48 hours per year, under the Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA).  Maryland: Employees accrue at least 1 hour of paid sick and safe leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours per year, as required under the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act.  Washington: Employees accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked, in accordance with the Seattle Paid Sick and Safe Time.

SSA Holdings and its affiliated companies, including SSA Group, A&F Souvenir, Cinchio Solutions, and Behavioral Essentials, are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our hiring practices and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. A diverse team strengthens our collective impact.

All California Residents: By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the SSA Group California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) Candidate and Employee Privacy Notice ("Notice").  

San Francisco Residents: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Please see the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" documentfor more information. By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document. 

We accept applications for this position on a rolling basis. Apply anytime at thessagroup.com. Applications are reviewed as received, and the position remains open until filled.