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Executive Chef Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Illini Country Club

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Consistently follow portion control and presentation specifications set by the Executive Chef. * Collaborate with the front of house team to ensure food service is seamless and efficient, especially ...

Bella Milano

Sous Chef

Springfield, IL · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

Goals: -Food Quality - maintain highest level of food quality -Sanitation - Ensure kitchen is clean at all times and able to pass Inspections from Health Inspectors and Executive Team -Labor Cost ...

Hilton Garden Inn Springfield

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Collaborates with the Executive Chef and kitchen team to develop new recipes and menu items. Suggests improvements to existing dishes and introduces innovative culinary ideas. * Maintains a clean and ...

Hilton Garden Inn Springfield

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Collaborates with the Executive Chef and kitchen team to develop new recipes and menu items. Suggests improvements to existing dishes and introduces innovative culinary ideas. * Maintains a clean and ...

Hilton Garden Inn Springfield

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Collaborates with the Executive Chef and kitchen team to develop new recipes and menu items. Suggests improvements to existing dishes and introduces innovative culinary ideas. * Maintains a clean and ...

Hilton Garden Inn Springfield

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Collaborates with the Executive Chef and kitchen team to develop new recipes and menu items. Suggests improvements to existing dishes and introduces innovative culinary ideas. * Maintains a clean and ...

Hilton Garden Inn Springfield

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Collaborates with the Executive Chef and kitchen team to develop new recipes and menu items. Suggests improvements to existing dishes and introduces innovative culinary ideas. * Maintains a clean and ...

Cedarhurst

Executive Director

Springfield, IL · On-site

The Executive Director, reporting directly to the Regional Director of Operations or Divisional Director of Operations, serves as the senior leader of the Community with responsibility for strategic ...

Compass Group

COOK (FULL TIME)

Springfield, IL · On-site

$18/hr

With more than 31,000 dedicated team members, including 1,600 registered dietitians and 1,200 executive chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ...

Compass Group

DISHWASHER (FULL TIME)

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16.23/hr

With more than 31,000 dedicated team members, including 1,600 registered dietitians and 1,200 executive chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ...

Compass Group

DISHWASHER (FULL TIME)

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16.23/hr

With more than 31,000 dedicated team members, including 1,600 registered dietitians and 1,200 executive chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ...

Compass Group

COOK

Springfield, IL · On-site

$18/hr

With more than 31,000 dedicated team members, including 1,600 registered dietitians and 1,200 executive chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ...

Compass Group

DISHWASHER

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16.23/hr

With more than 31,000 dedicated team members, including 1,600 registered dietitians and 1,200 executive chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ...

Compass Group

COOK (FULL TIME)

Springfield, IL · On-site

$18/hr

With more than 31,000 dedicated team members, including 1,600 registered dietitians and 1,200 executive chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ...

Cooper's Hawk

Kitchen Manager

Springfield, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

You will partner closely with the Executive Kitchen Manager to deliver uncompromising hospitality, while coaching and inspiring our Team Members to ensure high food quality and a memorable guest ...

Ilitch

Little Caesars - Co-Manager - 1714

Waverly, IL

$19/hr

Many of our most successful executives and franchisees have started their careers in the stores learning our operations! Who We Are: Little Caesars is built on a strong foundation of family, fun and ...

All JobsChef JobsExecutive Chef JobsExecutive Chef Jobs in Springfield, IL

Executive Chef information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$39.6K

$86.1K

$128.8K

How much do executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive chef in Springfield, IL is $86,114.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,900.00 and $97,600.00 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.
More about Executive Chef jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Executive Chef jobs in Springfield, IL? For Executive Chef jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Executive Chef jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Executive Chef jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Executive Chef jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Executive Chef job openings:
Executive Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Chef job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,114 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Cook

Illini Country Club

Springfield, IL • On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Join us at Illini Country Club, where culinary excellence meets exceptional member experiences. We strive to create memorable dining moments in a luxurious setting, offering top-notch amenities and a welcoming environment for our members and their guests.

We are seeking a talented and dedicated Cook to join our culinary team. As a Cook on our team, you will play a crucial role in creating high-quality dishes that exceed our members' expectations. You will prepare and cook a variety of meals with precision and care, contributing to an exceptional dining experience in our club’s restaurants and event settings.

The key responsibilities of a Cook on our team are to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of restaurant best practices and cooking methods.
  • Prepare and cook a diverse range of menu items, including appetizers, entrees, and desserts, following established recipes and presentation style.
  • Ensure all dishes are cooked to perfection, meeting our quality standards and exceeding member satisfaction.
  • Consistently follow portion control and presentation specifications set by the Executive Chef.
  • Collaborate with the front of house team to ensure food service is seamless and efficient, especially during peak hours.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment in accordance with health and safety regulations.
  • Assist in the development of new menu items and daily specials by providing creative input and testing recipes.
  • Manage and control food inventory, ensuring the freshness and quality of ingredients.

A successful candidate will:

  • Have proven experience as a cook or in a similar culinary role, preferably within a high-end restaurant or hospitality setting (preferred but not required).
  • Possess strong knowledge of cooking methods, kitchen equipment, and best practices.
  • Work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
  • Be detail-oriented with a commitment to maintaining a high standard of food quality and presentation.
  • Exhibit excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with team members from various departments.
  • Have a current Illinois food handler certification, or be willing to earn certification within seven (7) days of hire.
  • Be able to stand, walk, reach, bend, etc. for extended periods of time.
  • Be able to lift up to 30 pounds.
  • Be available to work a flexible schedule, including holidays and weekends.

We offer:

  • A competitive hourly wage.
  • Opportunities for growth and professional development.
  • A supportive and engaging work environment.
  • Time off under the Paid Leave for All Workers Act.
  • Insurance benefits, 401(k), and paid time off for employees who meet eligibility requirements.

This is a nonexempt position and will be paid on an hourly basis.

Join our team and enjoy being part of an exclusive setting where you can showcase your culinary skills while building rewarding relationships with your fellow employees. If you have a passion for creating memorable food experiences, can follow instructions, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this could be the job for you. We invite you to apply today to join our club community!


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