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Head Chef Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Breakfast Line Cook

Kailua, HI · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous experience in a similar role is preferred * ServeSafe or Food Handler's Certification * Advanced knowledge ...

Line Cook

Kailua, HI · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous experience in a similar role is preferred * ServeSafe or Food Handler's Certification * Advanced knowledge ...

Line Cook

Kailua, HI · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous experience in a similar role is preferred * ServeSafe or Food Handler's Certification * Advanced knowledge ...

Line Cook

Kailua, HI · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous experience in a similar role is preferred * ServeSafe or Food Handler's Certification * Advanced knowledge ...

Line Cook PM Closer

Kailua, HI · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous experience in a similar role is preferred * ServeSafe or Food Handler's Certification * Advanced knowledge ...

Kitchen Prep

Kapolei, HI · On-site

$16/hr

Completing all tasks, in order, on the prep list from the Head Chef or other kitchen manager Labeling and stocking all ingredients on easily accessible shelves Washing, chopping, and sorting ...

Anticipate and prepare for unexpected changes in menu or head count. * Oversee banquet food ... May relieve other sous chefs as needed in outlets. * Perform other related duties as assigned or ...

Anticipate and prepare for unexpected changes in menu or head count. * Oversee banquet food ... May relieve other sous chefs as needed in outlets. * Perform other related duties as assigned or ...

Line Cook

Kaneohe, HI · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous experience in a similar role is preferred * ServeSafe or Food Handler's Certification * Advanced knowledge ...

Line Cook

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Koko Head Cafe is a dynamic, fast-paced restaurant with an outstanding team culture. It is a great ... Chef/Owner Lee Anne Wong! Lee Anne is at the restaurant on a regular basis and is an excellent ...

Banquets Chef (Salary)

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Anticipate and prepare for unexpected changes in menu or head count. * Oversee banquet food ... May relieve other sous chefs as needed in outlets. * Perform other related duties as assigned or ...

Support the Chef de Cuisine in leading daily kitchen operations, including dinner service, private events, menu execution, and luxury guest requests. * Supervise, train, and schedule the culinary ...

Yakitori Chef

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$58K - $60K/yr

Yakitori Chef / Cook New Japanese Restaurant Opening Are you a talented Chef or Cook with experience in yakitori, Japanese cuisine, or live-fire cooking? We are seeking skilled Yakitori Chefs and ...

Location - Waimea, Big Island, HI Salary - $75-90k Benefits - MDV, 401k w/ company match, paid vacation, life insurance Seeking a talented Chef de Cuisine to oversee kitchen teams, craft menus, and ...

Sous Chef

Kailua Kona, HI · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Executive Sous Chef Location: Kailua- Kona Hawaii Department: Back of the House (Kitchen) Reports To: Executive Chef Employment Type: Full-Time Position Summary We are seeking a talented and driven ...

Restaurant Sous Chef

Koloa, HI · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Sous Chef Upscale Dining - Culinary Leader Are you a Sous Chef passionate about your culinary skills? We are seeking a Professional Sous Chef with strong leadership, building skills, and high energy.

Restaurant Sous Chef

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$65K - $72K/yr

Sous Chef Upscale Casual - Culinary Leader Are you a Kitchen Manager passionate about your culinary skills? We are seeking a Professional Sous Chef with strong leadership, building skills, and high ...

Restaurant Sous Chef

Lahaina, HI · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Sous Chef Upscale Casual - Culinary Leader Are you a Kitchen Manager passionate about your culinary skills? We are seeking a Professional Sous Chef with strong leadership, building skills, and high ...

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Head Chef information

See Hawaii salary details

$29.6K

$66.5K

$98.7K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Hawaii is $66,487.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,900.00 and $77,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a head chef?

A head chef oversees the kitchen of a restaurant or other dining facility. They are the top of the chef chain-of-command in most establishments; larger restaurants have an executive chef above the head chef. As head chef, you control inventory and order supplies to ensure they are replenished, develop menu items, and train and manage staff. While you may supervise the cooking and completion of dishes in the kitchen, the day-to-day operations are usually handled by someone lower down the chef hierarchy, such as the sous chef.

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

To thrive as a Head Chef, you need advanced culinary skills, menu planning expertise, and several years of professional kitchen experience, often supported by a degree or certification in culinary arts. Familiarity with kitchen management systems, inventory software, and food safety certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Strong leadership, creativity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing a team and fostering a positive kitchen environment. These competencies ensure consistent food quality, efficient operations, and a motivated staff, all critical for a successful kitchen.

What are some of the main challenges head chefs face in managing kitchen operations?

Head Chefs often face the challenge of balancing high-quality food preparation with efficient kitchen management, especially during busy service periods. They must coordinate and motivate a diverse team, ensure food safety standards are consistently met, and adapt quickly to supply chain or staffing issues. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential, as the Head Chef is responsible for both the culinary output and the smooth operation of the kitchen. Successfully overcoming these challenges can lead to greater leadership opportunities within the hospitality industry.

What is the difference between Head Chef vs Sous Chef?

AspectHead ChefSous Chef
CredentialsCooking certifications, culinary degrees often preferredSimilar credentials, often with experience in kitchens
Work EnvironmentOversees entire kitchen, manages staffAssists Head Chef, manages specific sections
Industry UsageLeads kitchen operations in restaurants, hotelsSupports Head Chef, second-in-command
Search & ComparisonOften searched with Sous Chef for role distinctionsCommonly compared to Head Chef for hierarchy understanding

The Head Chef is responsible for the overall kitchen management, menu creation, and staff supervision, while the Sous Chef acts as the second-in-command, assisting the Head Chef and managing specific kitchen sections. Both roles require culinary expertise and certifications, but the Head Chef holds the primary leadership position.

How much do head chefs get paid?

Head chefs typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $80,000, depending on the location, restaurant size, and experience. Salaries can be higher in upscale establishments or in regions with a higher cost of living, and many head chefs also receive tips and bonuses.

What other jobs can a head chef do?

A head chef can transition into roles such as culinary director, food service manager, restaurant owner, or food consultant, leveraging skills in kitchen management, menu development, and leadership. They may also pursue positions in catering, hospitality management, or culinary education, often requiring certifications or experience in business and operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Hawaii?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Hawaii are:

What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in Hawaii?

For Head Chef jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Hawaii are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities in Hawaii with the most Head Chef job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in HI?

For Head Chef jobs in HI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,487 per year, or $32 per hour.

Sous Chef, High Volume Restaurant

the Chef Agency

Waikoloa, HI • On-site

$46K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Location - Waikoloa, Big Island HI
Pay - $22-27/hr , will get OT (45-55 hrs/week)
Benefits - MDV, 401k match, PTO
Seeking a sous chef with high volume scratch kitchen experience!
Qualifications
  • Minimum 3 years managing a busy scratch kitchen
  • strong knowledge of health code compliance
  • Willingness to work alongside cooks and lead service flow in the kitchen
  • No tattoos on face/neck/head/hands

Responsibilities
  • Lead daily kitchen operations, ensuring exceptional food quality, presentation, and adherence to company standards.
  • Train, mentor, and develop culinary team members in cooking techniques, knife skills, time management, and food safety.
  • Monitor kitchen expenses and maintain compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health regulations.

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About Chef Agency

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

THE MOST TALENTED RECRUITING TEAM IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY. With our support, you’ll have exclusive access to top-tier clients, a robust candidate database, insight from industry experts, and the necessary training and tools needed to build your book of business. Reach out today, and create your own work-life balance while achieving success in the recruiting world.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

2013

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