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Executive Chef Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Illini Country Club

Cook

Springfield, IL

$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

$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 ...

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 ...

Compass Group

SENIOR COOK

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19/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 ...

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All 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 Jun 22, 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 are Executive Chefs?

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 does Gordon Ramsay pay his executive chef?

Gordon Ramsay's executive chefs typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the restaurant location, experience, and responsibilities. Compensation may also include bonuses, benefits, and opportunities for career advancement within his restaurant group.

How much is an executive chef paid?

An executive chef's salary varies based on experience, location, and establishment size, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually. In high-end restaurants or large hotels, salaries can exceed $100,000, and many executive chefs also receive benefits and bonuses.

What does an executive chef actually do?

An executive chef oversees the entire kitchen operation, including menu planning, managing staff, ensuring food quality, and controlling costs. They coordinate between kitchen staff and management, often requiring leadership skills, culinary expertise, and certifications such as ServSafe. Their role is essential in maintaining the restaurant's standards and profitability.

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 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 highest paid chef position?

The highest paid chef position is typically that of a Executive Chef or Culinary Director in high-end restaurants, luxury hotels, or private estates, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. Executive Chefs oversee kitchen operations, menu development, and staff management, and their compensation varies based on location, experience, and establishment size.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,114 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Cook - Hilton Garden Inn

Hilton Garden Inn Springfield

Springfield, IL

$16/hr

Other

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

The Cook plays a vital role in delivering high-quality meals to guests by preparing and cooking food items according to recipes and standards. This role is essential in maintaining the kitchen's efficiency and ensuring that guests receive exceptional culinary experiences.

Pay Rate: $16 per hour

_____________________________________________________________________________

Essential functions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Prepares and cooks food items according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and food preparation checklists. Ensures all food is prepared in a timely manner and according to specifications.

  • 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 organized work area, including cleaning kitchen equipment, utensils, and work surfaces. Ensures compliance with sanitation and safety standards.

  • Assists with the receiving and storage of deliveries. Rotates stock to maintain freshness and minimize waste. Monitors inventory levels and communicates needs to the Kitchen Manager.

  • Monitors food quality throughout the preparation and cooking process. Adjusts seasoning and presentation to ensure dishes meet the highest standards. Conducts regular taste tests to ensure consistency.

  • Oversees a specific station in the kitchen, ensuring all prep work and cooking duties are performed efficiently. Coordinates with other kitchen staff to ensure timely and accurate food delivery.

  • Assists with the training of new kitchen staff, helps with food preparation for events, and supports other kitchen team members as needed. Steps in to cover other stations when necessary.

  • Adheres to all health department regulations and ensures that food is stored, prepared, and served in a manner that complies with these standards. Properly labels and dates food items.

  • Implements practices to reduce food waste and optimize kitchen resources. Participates in discussions on improving kitchen sustainability.

  • Ensure all guest interactions are conducted in a courteous and professional manner, aligning with company standards.


Qualifications:

Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred; culinary training or certification is a plus.

Experience: Prior experience as a cook in a professional kitchen environment is preferred.

  • Ability to follow recipes accurately, strong knife skills, and knowledge of various cooking techniques. Must have excellent time management skills and the ability to work under pressure.

  • Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs regularly, and work in a fast-paced environment with varying temperatures.

  • Most tasks are performed in the kitchen, with exposure to varying temperatures, including working near hot surfaces and ovens. Some tasks may require working in refrigerated or freezer areas.

This description is a summary of primary responsibilities and qualifications. The job description is not intended to include all duties or qualifications that may be required now or in the future.

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