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Head Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Marcus Hotels

Executive Sous Chef

Coralville, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Executive Sous Chef Experienced culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment and enjoys leading teams that create memorable guest experiences? The Hyatt Regency Coralville ...

Marcus Hotels

Executive Sous Chef

Coralville, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Executive Sous Chef Experienced culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment and enjoys leading teams that create memorable guest experiences? The Hyatt Regency Coralville ...

Whispering Creek Senior Living

Sous Chef

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Sous Chef helps lead kitchen staff, ensures efficient meal service, and contributes to a positive dining experience. Essential Job Responsibilities * Prepare and portion food ingredients ...

Story County Medical Center

Chef - PRN

Nevada, IA

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Join us at Story County Medical Center as a CHEF within our Senior Care Center! Located in Nevada, Iowa, we deliver top-quality healthcare across multiple specialties in a community-focused setting.

Story County Medical Center

Chef - PRN

Nevada, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Join us at Story County Medical Center as a CHEF within our Senior Care Center! Located in Nevada, Iowa, we deliver top-quality healthcare across multiple specialties in a community-focused setting.

Boyd Gaming

Executive Chef

Northwood, IA · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Responsible for the direct supervision of all Room Chefs and Assistant Chefs. Manage staffing levels congruent with departmental and business needs. Review and analyze financial reports and apply ...

Boyd Gaming

Executive Chef

Northwood, IA · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

... Chefs and Assistant Chefs. • Manage staffing levels congruent with departmental and business needs. • Review and analyze financial reports and apply findings in a practical manner to improve the ...

APARIUM HOTEL GROUP

Executive Chef

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$69K - $96K/yr

EXECUTIVE CHEF Reports to: General Manager, position is exempt WHO WE ARE Surety Hotel is managed by Aparium Hotel Group which was founded in 2011. Since its founding, Aparium has grown into a new ...

Diamond Jo Worth Casino

Executive Chef

Northwood, IA

$67K - $92K/yr

Responsible for the direct supervision of all Room Chefs and Assistant Chefs. * Manage staffing levels congruent with departmental and business needs. * Review and analyze financial reports and apply ...

Riverside Casino & Golf Resort

Sous Chef

Riverside, IA

$47K - $64K/yr

The Sous Chef is responsible for overseeing all aspects of food service in both restaurants. This position must be able to lead and train other staff members, as well as possess extensive knowledge ...

Riverside Casino & Golf Resort

Sous Chef

Cedar Rapids, IA

$48K - $66K/yr

The Sous Chef is responsible for overseeing all aspects of food service in both restaurants. This position must be able to lead and train other staff members, as well as possess extensive knowledge ...

Aramark

Campus Dining Chef Manager

Fayette, IA

We know that a Chef's job isn't only about the food. It takes skills, dedication, patience, and the right opportunities. We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer ...

Aramark

Campus Dining Chef Manager

Fayette, IA · On-site

We know that a Chef's job isn't only about the food. It takes skills, dedication, patience, and the right opportunities. We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer ...

Aramark

Campus Dining Chef Manager

Fayette, IA

We know that a Chef's job isn't only about the food. It takes skills, dedication, patience, and the right opportunities. We're looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer ...

Fleming's

Sous Chef

West Des Moines, IA

$45K - $62K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

As a successful Sous Chef, you will be the key to fulfilling our promise to make every guest visit a memorable celebration of food, wine, and personalized service. Ensuring that Fleming's is an ...

Aramark

Campus Dining Chef Manager

Fayette, IA · On-site

We know that a Chef?s job isn?t only about the food. It takes skills, dedication, patience, and the right opportunities. We?re looking for Chef Manager who can help us deliver the best customer ...

WesleyLife

Chef

Atlantic, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Chef As our Chef, you'll play a key role in supporting the health, happiness, and daily experience of the residents at Heritage House in Atlantic As our Chef, you will: * Lead Meal Production with ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsHead Chef JobsHead Chef Jobs in Iowa

Head Chef information

See Iowa salary details

$26.8K

$60.1K

$89.2K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Iowa is $60,108.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $70,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How much do head chefs get paid?

Head chefs typically earn between $45,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on the location, restaurant size, and experience. Salaries can be higher in upscale establishments or major cities, and many head chefs also receive benefits and bonuses based on performance.

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.

Is a head chef a stressful job?

A head chef role is often considered stressful due to high-pressure environments, long hours, and the need to manage kitchen staff and ensure food quality. The job requires strong organizational skills, resilience, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Stress levels can vary depending on the establishment's size and workload.

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.

More about Head Chef jobs

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

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Head Chef jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Head Chef jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Head Chef job openings:

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

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

Head Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,108 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Executive Sous Chef

Marcus Hotels

Coralville, IA • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Marcus Hotels & Resorts rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Executive Sous Chef
Experienced culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment and enjoys leading teams that create memorable guest experiences?
The Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center is seeking an experienced, motivated, and hands-on Executive Sous Chef to support daily culinary operations across our award-winning hotel and conference center, including our award-winning restaurant, Watermill Kitchen + Bar, known for its elevated Midwest-inspired cuisine, locally influenced flavors, and exceptional guest experience.
This leadership role assists in overseeing banquet operations, restaurant outlets, stewarding, room service, associate dining, and overall kitchen operations while helping maintain exceptional food quality, operational efficiency, and a positive team culture.
The Executive Sous Chef serves as a key culinary leader and operational partner to the Executive Chef while helping drive consistency, creativity, cleanliness, associate development, and guest satisfaction throughout the property.
Schedule & Pay
  • Full-time leadership position
  • Annual salary starting at $60,000, commensurate with experience
  • Flexible schedule based on business demands and event volume
  • Must be available to work days, evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Salaried, exempt position

Why Our Culinary Team Loves Working Here
  • Competitive compensation package
  • Matching 401(k) and profit-sharing opportunities
  • Health benefits available after 30 days for full-time associates
  • Free and discounted meals & Starbucks
  • Free Marcus Theatre movie tickets
  • Hotel discounts at Hyatt and Marcus Hotels & Resorts properties
  • Free parking and uniforms
  • Opportunities for advancement and career growth
  • A fast-paced, team-focused culture built around People Pleasing People

What You'll Do
As Executive Sous Chef, you will help lead culinary operations throughout the hotel while supporting kitchen leadership, operational consistency, associate development, and exceptional guest experiences.
Responsibilities include:
  • Assist in overseeing daily culinary operations across banquet, restaurant, room service, stewarding, and other food & beverage outlets
  • Supervise, coach, train, and develop culinary associates and kitchen leadership teams
  • Support scheduling and staffing to maintain operational coverage while managing labor costs responsibly
  • Ensure food quality, presentation, consistency, and recipe adherence across all outlets
  • Maintain proper food handling, labeling, storage, sanitation, and rotation procedures in compliance with health department standards
  • Support food and labor cost control initiatives and operational efficiencies
  • Assist with ordering, receiving, inventory management, and product quality control
  • Ensure kitchen cleanliness, safety, organization, and sanitation standards are consistently maintained
  • Support preventative maintenance and proper care of kitchen equipment
  • Assist with execution of special events, VIP functions, banquets, and associate events
  • Collaborate closely with Food & Beverage, Banquets, Stewarding, and Purchasing teams
  • Step into operational leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Executive Chef
  • Participate in leadership meetings, operational planning, and associate development initiatives
  • Maintain professionalism and strong communication with guests, associates, and leaders
  • Assist with additional duties and special projects as assigned

What We're Looking For
We're looking for a strong culinary leader who thrives in a high-volume hospitality environment and enjoys mentoring teams while delivering exceptional food experiences.
Ideal candidates will have:
  • 3-5 years of high-volume culinary leadership experience preferred
  • Strong knowledge of food preparation, sanitation, safety, and kitchen operations
  • Experience leading teams in a fast-paced hospitality environment
  • Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
  • Knowledge of food and labor cost controls
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and remain calm under pressure
  • Professional appearance and dependable work ethic
  • Culinary degree, apprenticeship, or formal culinary training preferred, but not required
  • Basic computer knowledge and administrative skills helpful
  • ServSafe Certification or ability to obtain certification
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 100 lbs. with assistance as needed
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift

If you are passionate about culinary leadership, hospitality, and developing strong teams while creating memorable guest experiences, this could be an exciting opportunity to grow your career with an award-winning hotel team.
About Us
At Marcus Hotels & Resorts, we believe our associates are our greatest asset. Our culture is built around the philosophy of People Pleasing People, creating memorable experiences for both guests and team members.
The Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center offers a dynamic, welcoming, and fast-paced environment where associates can grow, develop, and take pride in delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.
Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
All offers of employment are subject to E-Verify verification of identity and employment eligibility.

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