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Head Chef Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$48K - $55K/yr

Position Overview The Sous Chef will work closely with the Head Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, support staff development, and ensure high-quality food production for both catering events ...

Sous Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$48K - $55K/yr

Position Overview The Sous Chef will work closely with the Head Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, support staff development, and ensure high-quality food production for both catering events ...

Position Overview The Sous Chef will work closely with the Head Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, support staff development, and ensure high-quality food production for both catering events ...

Sous Chef

Ann Arbor, MI

$48K - $66K/yr

Position Overview The Sous Chef will work closely with the Head Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, support staff development, and ensure high-quality food production for both catering events ...

Sous Chef

Mount Clemens, MI

$46K - $63K/yr

Key Responsibilities * Assist the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations and meal preparation. * Supervise and support kitchen staff, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and according to ...

Sous Chef

Lansing, MI · On-site

$25/hr

Key ResponsibilitiesAssist the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations and meal preparation.Supervise and support kitchen staff, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and according to ...

Key ResponsibilitiesAssist the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations and meal preparation.Supervise and support kitchen staff, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and according to ...

Sous Chef

Lansing, MI · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Key Responsibilities * Assist the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations and meal preparation. * Supervise and support kitchen staff, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and according to ...

Sous Chef

Birmingham, MI · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Qualified Sous Chefs will possess most, if not all, of the following skills and experience: · 5+ years of experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, or similar position · Assisting with developing menus ...

Executive Chef

Birmingham, MI · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Qualified Executive Chefs will possess most, if not all, of the following skills and experience: * 5+ years of Executive Chef, Head Chef, or Chef de Cuisine experience leading high-volume restaurant ...

Sous Chef

East Lansing, MI · On-site

$47K - $63K/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 ...

Restaurant Cook

Rothbury, MI · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

As a qualified cook, you will help prepare menu items under the guidance of our head chef. The cook will play a vital role in upholding our food safety and cleanliness standards. In addition, you ...

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Head Chef information

See Michigan salary details

$24.8K

$55.8K

$82.8K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Michigan is $55,777.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $65,400.00 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.

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

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Michigan are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Head Chef job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,777 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

$48K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Now Hiring: Sous Chef
Dominos Farm, Ann Arbor
Managed by Picasso Restaurant Group
Picasso Restaurant Group is looking for a motivated and experienced Sous Chef to join our culinary team at our Cafe at the Dominos Farm building. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled culinary professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional food and service.
About Us
Picasso Restaurant Group is a family-owned food service management company serving hospitals, universities, and corporate facilities throughout Michigan. From upscale catering events to daily café dining, we are committed to quality, creativity, and hospitality in everything we do.
Position Overview
The Sous Chef will work closely with the Head Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, support staff development, and ensure high-quality food production for both catering events and daily café service.
Responsibilities
  • Assist the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations
  • Help facilitate high-end, high-volume food production and service
  • Support execution of upscale catered events and daily café meals
  • Supervise and motivate kitchen staff during shifts
  • Maintain food quality, presentation, and consistency standards
  • Assist with inventory, ordering, and food cost management
  • Ensure sanitation, safety, and cleanliness standards are followed
  • Step into leadership roles as needed during service

Qualifications
  • Minimum 3 years of culinary leadership experience
  • High-volume kitchen experience required
  • Catering experience preferred
  • Strong communication and leadership skills
  • Ability to multitask and work efficiently under pressure
  • Passion for culinary excellence and teamwork
  • ServSafe certification preferred

What We Offer
  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Opportunity for advancement within a growing company
  • Supportive and team-oriented work environment
  • Creative and fast-paced culinary atmosphere

If you are passionate about food, leadership, and hospitality, we would love to hear from you.