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Head Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Diamond Jo Worth Casino

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 ...

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 ...

Koch Fertilizer

Plant Operator

Wever, IA · On-site

$52 - $75/hr

Koch Fertilizer in Wever, IA is looking for a Plant Operator to join our Ammonia, UREA, UAN, Nitric ... Turn numerous ball valves at rapid pace at knee level and above head height. * Work in extreme ...

Fleming's

Sous Chef

West Des Moines, IA

$45K - $62K/yr

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 ...

Bon Appetit

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mount Vernon, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mount Vernon, IA

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

Pritchard Auto Company

Line Chef

Clear Lake, IA · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Seasonal Line Chef The Line Chef plays a critical role in the culinary operations of a professional kitchen, responsible for preparing and cooking menu items to the highest standards of quality and ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mount Vernon, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

Aparium Hotel Group

Executive Chef

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

THE ROLE The Executive Chef reports to the General Manager and leads menu planning and development, while overseeing the culinary operation. It is critical that you possess a strong background and ...

Sodexo

Chef Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$59 - $76/hr

Sodexo is seeking a Chef Manager at UnityPoint Health St. Luke's Hospital located in Cedar Rapids, IA. About the job Take on a leadership position where your vision and expertise will drive culinary ...

Park-Centre

Executive Chef

Newton, IA · On-site

$65 - $90/hr

A Typical Day in the life of an Executive Chef at Park Centre: * Assist with meal service and determination of amount and type of food and supplies required for daily menus. * Lead and collaborate ...

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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 Sep 5, 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 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.
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 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,108 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Executive Chef

Diamond Jo Worth Casino

Northwood, IA • On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Boyd Gaming Corporation has been successful in gaming jurisdiction in which we operate in the United States and is one of the premier casino entertainment companies in the United States. Never content to rest upon our successes, we will continue to evolve and retain a position of leadership in our industry. Our past success, our current business philosophies and our sound business planning, combine to position Boyd Gaming Corporation to maximize value for our shareholders, our team members and our communities.

Job Description

Responsible for the overall operations of the kitchens and personnel to ensure guest satisfaction and consistent compliance with all departmental goals, standards and procedures as well as all company, health, safety, and all other applicable regulatory standards and procedures.

• 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 findings in a practical manner to improve the overall operations.

• Assist the Food and Beverage Director in establishing budget goals and objectives, monitoring financial status and performance of the department, menu and recipe creation, and food and plate cost percentages.

• Promote and ensure positive guest relations at all times.

• Other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age.

• High school diploma or equivalent GED required.

• Certification of culinary training or apprenticeship is a plus.

• Five (5) years of experience in a similar position. Must have high volume experience with multiple outlets.

• Must have an extensive knowledge of food products, recipes, preparation, and presentation styles.

• Must be able to stand, walk for extended periods of time. Bend, twist, and stoop as needed.

• Must have excellent customer service and communication skills.

• Must be able to obtain/maintain any necessary licenses and/or certifications including able to pass a background check.


Additional Information

Boyd Gaming is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.

Boyd Gaming is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.