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Head Chef Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Athenian Grill Fayette Mall

Head Chef

Lexington, KY · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Head Chef -- Athenian Grill (Fayette Mall, Lexington) Pay: $20-$25/hour, based on experience | Full-time Athenian Grill is hiring an experienced Head Chef to run the kitchen at our Fayette Mall ...

New

Holly Hill Inn

Head Chef

Lexington, KY · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Chef Reports To: General Manager/Director of Culinary Position Summary: Responsible for leading and managing the kitchen team, overseeing cost of goods, menu planning, recipe writing. Duties and ...

Deer Creek Lodge

Sous Chef/ line cook

Sebree, KY · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

The Sous Chef/Line Cook plays a crucial role in a luxury 5-star dining establishment, supporting the Head Chef in delivering specialty cuisine. This position involves preparing and cooking high ...

Deer Creek Lodge

Sous Chef/ line cook

Sebree, KY · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

The Sous Chef/Line Cook plays a crucial role in a luxury 5-star dining establishment, supporting the Head Chef in delivering specialty cuisine. This position involves preparing and cooking high ...

Upper Crust Food Service

Sous chef

Lexington, KY · On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

Sous Chefs are responsible for supporting the Head Chef in food preparation, management of additional staff, maintaining a clean kitchen/dining room, and ensuring best practices with safety and ...

Toogie's Table

Line Cook

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Prepares soups, salads, and sauces as instructed by the head chef. * Plates and garnishes meal items in accordance with the instructions provided by the head chef. * Cooks menu items in accordance ...

Toogie's Table

Line Cook

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Prepares soups, salads, and sauces as instructed by the head chef. * Plates and garnishes meal items in accordance with the instructions provided by the head chef. * Cooks menu items in accordance ...

Toogie's Table

Line Cook

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Prepares soups, salads, and sauces as instructed by the head chef. * Plates and garnishes meal items in accordance with the instructions provided by the head chef. * Cooks menu items in accordance ...

Toogie's Table

Line Cook

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Cooks menu items in accordance with instruction provided by the head chef. Attends pre-shift meeting to review/communicate information regarding service, VIP's, Specials. Ensures that all cooking ...

Toogie's Table

Line Cook

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Prepares soups, salads, and sauces as instructed by the head chef. * Plates and garnishes meal items in accordance with the instructions provided by the head chef. * Cooks menu items in accordance ...

Bardstown Motor Lodge

Line Cook

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Prepares soups, salads, and sauces as instructed by the head chef. * Plates and garnishes meal items following the instructions provided by the head chef. * Cooks menu items following instruction ...

Bardstown Motor Lodge

Line Cook

Bardstown, KY

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Prepares soups, salads, and sauces as instructed by the head chef. * Plates and garnishes meal items following the instructions provided by the head chef. * Cooks menu items following instruction ...

Bardstown Motor Lodge

Line Cook

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Prepares soups, salads, and sauces as instructed by the head chef.Plates and garnishes meal items following the instructions provided by the head chef.Cooks menu items following instruction provided ...

CRAFTS & VINES LLC

Kitchen Associate

Covington, KY · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous experience in a similar role is preferred but not required * Obtain ServeSafe or Food Handler ...

CRAFTS & VINES LLC

Kitchen Associate

Covington, KY · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous experience in a similar role is preferred but not required * Obtain ServeSafe or Food Handler ...

CRAFTS & VINES LLC

Kitchen Associate

Covington, KY · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous experience in a similar role is preferred but not required * Obtain ServeSafe or Food Handler ...

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All JobsHead Chef JobsHead Chef Jobs in Kentucky

Head Chef information

See Kentucky salary details

$24.8K

$55.6K

$82.5K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Kentucky is $55,581.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $65,100.00 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 Kentucky?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Kentucky are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Head Chef job openings:

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

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

Head Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,581 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Head Chef

Lexington, KY • On-site

Athenian Grill Fayette Mall
See more jobs at Athenian Grill Fayette Mallexternal

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Head Chef — Athenian Grill (Fayette Mall, Lexington)
Pay: $20–$25/hour, based on experience | Full-time

Athenian Grill is hiring an experienced Head Chef to run the kitchen at our Fayette Mall location. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who can hold a line during a rush and keep a kitchen organized, clean, and consistent.

What you'll do

  • Lead daily kitchen operations, including prep, line, and close
  • Set the standard on food quality, portioning, and plating
  • Manage prep lists, ordering, inventory, and food cost
  • Train and direct kitchen staff; build and manage kitchen schedules
  • Hold the kitchen to health department and food safety standards
  • Work the line alongside the team during peak hours

What we're looking for

  • Prior experience as a Head Chef, Kitchen Manager, or Sous Chef ready to step up
  • Strong Mediterranean or Greek cuisine background is a plus, but not required
  • Comfortable leading a team and holding people accountable
  • Able to work in a fast-paced mall environment, including weekends
  • Food Handler / ServSafe certification preferred
  • Able to stand for long shifts and lift up to 50 lbs

Why work here

  • Family-owned and growing across Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee
  • Real advancement — we promote from within
  • Free or discounted shift meals
  • Immediate hire for the right candidate

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