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Full Time Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Wellington Place

Day Cook Full time

Decorah, IA · On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

Will train. Employment benefits include: -Insurance benefits package (Full-time employees) -Free employee meal program -Training by a professional chef consultant -Opportunities to be creative ...

Wellington Place

Day Cook Full time

Decorah, IA

$13 - $17.25/hr

Will train. Employment benefits include: -Insurance benefits package (Full-time employees) -Free employee meal program -Training by a professional chef consultant -Opportunities to be creative ...

APARIUM HOTEL GROUP

Barista (Full Time)

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

BARTISA - FULL TIME Reports to Food & Beverage Manager : position is non-exempt WHO WE ARE Located ... Communicate effectively with the chef on the line to ensure all guests get their food as ordered in ...

American Cruise Lines

Lead Line Cook

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

You assist the Executive Chef/Sous Chef with the preparation and service of "all" food related ... This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ...

American Cruise Lines

Lead Line Cook

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

You assist the Executive Chef/Sous Chef with the preparation and service of "all" food related ... This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ...

WesleyLife

Full-Time Cook (11am-7pm)

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Collaborate with Chefs and Food & Beverage Directors while gaining hands-on experience in a ... Current Openings: * 1 Full-time opening Compensation: * The starting pay rate will be based on ...

Edgewater

Full-Time Cook (11am-7pm)

Bettendorf, IA

$14.25 - $18/hr

Collaborate with Chefs and Food & Beverage Directors while gaining hands-on experience in a ... Current Openings: * 1 Full-time opening Compensation: * The starting pay rate will be based on ...

WesleyLife

Full-Time Cook (6am-2:30pm)

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Collaborate with Chefs and Food & Beverage Directors while gaining hands-on experience in a ... Current Openings: * 1 Full-time opening Compensation: * The starting pay rate will be based on ...

Edgewater

Full-Time Cook (6am-2:30pm)

Bettendorf, IA

$14.25 - $18/hr

Collaborate with Chefs and Food & Beverage Directors while gaining hands-on experience in a ... Current Openings: * 1 Full-time opening Compensation: * The starting pay rate will be based on ...

WesleyLife

Full-Time Cook (11am-7pm)

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Collaborate with Chefs and Food & Beverage Directors while gaining hands-on experience in a ... Current Openings: * 1 Full-time opening Compensation: * The starting pay rate will be based on ...

WesleyLife

Full-Time Cook (6am-2:30pm)

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Collaborate with Chefs and Food & Beverage Directors while gaining hands-on experience in a ... Current Openings: * 1 Full-time opening Compensation: * The starting pay rate will be based on ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsChef JobsFull Time Chef JobsFull Time Chef Jobs in Iowa

Full Time Chef information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$23

$41

How much do full time chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time chef in Iowa is $23.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $29.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Full Time Chef vs Part Time Chef?

AspectFull Time ChefPart Time Chef
Work HoursTypically 35-40 hours per weekFewer hours, often less than 20 hours per week
Employment StatusFull-time employment with benefitsPart-time employment, usually no benefits
CertificationsOften requires culinary certifications or experienceSimilar certifications, but less emphasis on experience
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesSame as full-time, but with flexible scheduling

Full Time Chefs work regular, full-week hours with benefits, while Part Time Chefs have flexible, fewer hours without benefits. Both roles require culinary skills and certifications, but the employment structure and hours differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time chef?

To thrive as a Full Time Chef, you need strong culinary skills, menu planning expertise, and a relevant culinary degree or apprenticeship. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food safety certifications, and inventory management systems is typically required. Leadership, creativity, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for consistently delivering high-quality dishes, maintaining kitchen efficiency, and leading a cohesive team in a demanding environment.

What are some common challenges faced by full time chefs in a professional kitchen?

Full-time chefs often encounter challenges such as managing high-pressure environments, maintaining consistency in food quality during busy service hours, and efficiently coordinating with kitchen staff. Balancing creativity with menu demands and dietary restrictions can also be demanding. Additionally, chefs must stay updated with food safety standards and often work long or irregular hours, especially during weekends and holidays. However, overcoming these challenges fosters strong teamwork, skill development, and career advancement opportunities.

What is a full time chef?

Full time chefs are professional cooks who work in restaurants, hotels, catering companies, or other food establishments on a consistent, usually 40-hour-per-week basis. They are responsible for planning menus, preparing and cooking meals, managing kitchen staff, and ensuring high standards of food quality and safety. Full time chefs may specialize in specific cuisines or types of dishes, and often oversee inventory, budgeting, and compliance with health regulations. Their role is essential to the daily operations of any food service establishment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Full Time Chef jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Full Time Chef job openings:
Full Time Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Chef job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,114 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Executive Sous Chef - Senior Living (Elevated Dining Program)

Thomas Cuisine

Cedar Falls, IA • On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 hours ago

Thomas Cuisine rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 68 rated caterers

Job description

REAL Food re-fined.
Executive Sous Chef - Senior Living (Elevated Dining Program) | Location: Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Compensation: $55,000-$60,000 annually + 5% bonus potential| Full-Time
Schedule: Open availability needed.
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Executive Sous Chef to turn fresh ideas into unforgettable dining within our Independent Living program-partnering with the Executive Chef to lead the brigade, craft inspired menus, and deliver show-stopping quality and presentation every service. This role combines culinary leadership with a strong understanding of nutrition, food safety, and hospitality. The Executive Sous Chef will supervise kitchen staff, contribute to menu planning, and help create an unforgettable dining experience.
What You'll Do
  • Assist in preparing and executing seasonal menus that reflect resident preferences and nutritional needs.
  • Oversee daily back-of-house operations for efficiency and consistency.
  • Supervise and support Sous Chefs, line cooks, and prep staff.
  • Lead hiring, training, performance management, and staff scheduling.
  • Ensure timely execution of menu items and catered events.
  • Drive menu planning, recipe development, and standardization.
  • Uphold food quality, taste, and presentation standards.
  • Incorporate culinary trends and resident feedback into menu innovation.
  • Foster a positive kitchen culture and team morale.
  • Enforce HACCP and local health regulation compliance.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and sanitized kitchen environments.
  • Conduct food safety training and monitor handling practices.
  • Manage ordering, inventory, and vendor relationships.
  • Control food and labor costs; reduce waste through smart portioning.
  • Collaborate with Executive Chef, front-of-house, and other departments.
  • Support planning and execution of special events and large functions.
  • Address service issues and implement operational improvements.
  • Maintain confidentiality and contribute as a key member of the management team.
  • Partner with culinary leadership in kitchen planning, goal-setting, and compliance.
  • Step in for the Executive Chef as needed to ensure smooth operations.
  • Other duties as assigned.

What You Will Bring
  • Culinary degree from an accredited program preferred.
  • Minimum 3-5 years of high-volume culinary experience in a professional kitchen, ideally in senior living, healthcare, or hospitality.
  • 2-4 years of experience in a sous chef leadership role in hospitality, healthcare, or similar setting.
  • Strong culinary skills and experience with a variety of cooking methods (roasting, braising, sautéing, grilling, etc.).
  • Ability to manage inventory, costs, and vendor relationships.
  • Proficiency in using kitchen equipment and recipe management systems.
  • Understanding of mathematics, including fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions.
  • Ability to interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
  • Strong leadership and team-building skills.
  • Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills.
  • Knowledge of nutrition, therapeutic diets, and senior-friendly cuisine.
  • Genuine passion for serving older adults and enhancing their quality of life.
  • Ability to walk or stand for extended periods during shifts.
  • Ability to lift up to 40 pounds frequently.
  • ServSafe® and State Food Handler Card (if applicable) required.
  • Ability to successfully pass a criminal background check (State and Federal) and drug screen.

Physical and Sensory Requirements
  • This job involves regular exposure to moving mechanical parts and a kitchen environment with fumes, airborne particles, and moderate noise. Employees must have the physical stamina to stand for long periods, lift trays, and perform repetitive tasks. Occasional exposure to wet or humid conditions, extreme temperatures, and vibration may occur. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.

At Thomas Cuisine, our people are purposeful. They care about food and quality and have a desire to make a positive impact in the world through REAL food. Embark on a rewarding culinary journey with us, where your skills will not only flourish but also contribute significantly to the satisfaction and well-being of our healthcare community.
What We Offer!
Life/Work Integration
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Baby Bonding Leave
  • Paid Elder Care Leave
  • Paid Time Off (Accrued)
  • Paid Holidays

Health & Wellness
  • 3 Medical Plans (Blue Cross)
  • Prescription, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Reimbursed Wellness Massages (Portion of cost)
  • Voluntary HSA with Company Match
  • Voluntary FSA
  • Free Employee Assistance Program (Behavioral Health Support)
  • Access to Wellness Initiatives (Fitness Memberships, etc.)

Financial Wellness
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
  • Company-Paid Basic Life Insurance
  • Company-Paid Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Policy
  • Voluntary Short-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Employee, Spouse, and/or child(ren) Life Insurance, with AD&D

Plus
  • A supportive, collaborative work environment
  • Opportunities for growth

Who We Are
Founded in 1986, Thomas Cuisine is an award-winning, privately held contract food service company. We advocate the healing power of whole foods and believe in preparing scratch-made cuisine fresh each day. Our people are purposeful, they care about food and quality, and have a desire to make a positive impact in the world through REAL food. Embark on a rewarding culinary journey with us, where your skills will not only flourish, but also contribute significantly to the satisfaction and well-being of our growing community.
Our commitment to you
At Thomas Cuisine, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace that is diverse, equitable, inclusive, and where every individual feels a sense of belonging. We know that this commitment is an ongoing journey, and we will strive to improve and adapt as we grow. Our DEIB commitment is not just a statement but a living part of our company culture.
REAL Food | Genuine Service | Enduring Relationships
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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