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Head Chef Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Aubrey

Head Chef

Saint Louis, MO

$50K - $75K/yr

We're looking for a skilled and passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen team, drive culinary excellence, and take our menu to the next level. If you have a deep love for food, strong leadership ...

Aubrey

Head Chef

Saint Louis, MO

We're looking for a skilled and passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen team, drive culinary excellence, and take our menu to the next level. If you have a deep love for food, strong leadership ...

Bougie Bites STL

Head Chef (Nights)

Saint Louis, MO

$20/hr

We're looking for a skilled and passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen team, drive culinary excellence, and take our menu to the next level. If you have a deep love for food, strong leadership ...

4th Street Cellars - Downtown Hermann Historic District

Be Seen First

Head Chef / Executive Chef

Hermann, MO · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Head Chef / Executive Chef Adam Puchta Winery Restaurant Downtown Hermann Historic District | Hermann, MO Full-Time Help Build the Culinary Destination of Missouri Wine Country Adam Puchta Winery is ...

4th Street Cellars - Downtown Hermann Historic District

Be Seen First

Head Chef / Executive Chef

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Head Chef / Executive Chef Adam Puchta Winery Restaurant Downtown Hermann Historic District | Hermann, MO Full-Time Help Build the Culinary Destination of Missouri Wine Country Adam Puchta Winery is ...

4th Street Cellars - Downtown Hermann Historic District

Be Seen First

Head Chef / Executive Chef

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Head Chef / Executive Chef Adam Puchta Winery Restaurant Downtown Hermann Historic District | Hermann, MO Full-Time Help Build the Culinary Destination of Missouri Wine Country Adam Puchta Winery is ...

4th Street Cellars - Downtown Hermann Historic District

Be Seen First

Head Chef / Executive Chef

Hermann, MO · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Head Chef / Executive Chef Adam Puchta Winery Restaurant Downtown Hermann Historic District | Hermann, MO Full-Time Help Build the Culinary Destination of Missouri Wine Country Adam Puchta Winery is ...

Upper Crust Food Service

Head Chef

Springfield, MO · On-site

Head Chefs are responsible for creating, planning, and executing all fresh, from scratch weekly menus with input from the client and Management team. Direct all food preparation and staff in ...

Upper Crust Food Service

Head Chef

Columbia, MO · On-site

Head Chefs are responsible for creating, planning, and executing all fresh, from scratch weekly menus with input from the client and Management team. Direct all food preparation and staff in ...

Upper Crust Food Service

Head Chef

Columbia, MO · On-site

Head Chefs are responsible for creating, planning, and executing all fresh, from scratch weekly menus with input from the client and Management team. Direct all food preparation and staff in ...

Brick House Gastropub

Sous Chef

Lake Ozark, MO

$16 - $20/hr

You will collaborate closely with the head chef to develop menus, manage inventory, and train kitchen staff, while ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. The ideal candidate will ...

Upper Crust Food Service

Sous Chef

Columbia, MO · On-site

$47K - $64K/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 ...

Stacked STL Ivory

Chef

Saint Louis, MO

$25 - $27/hr

Our Chef/part owner has started a new venture and we are ready to welcome a new head Chef to our team! We take great pride in providing our guests with a wonderful experience from start to finish. We ...

The Brass Rail

Chef

O Fallon, MO

Chef - Full Time The Brass Rail | 4601 State Hwy K Join The Brass Rail, a vibrant full-service restaurant known for its outstanding culinary offerings and welcoming atmosphere. As a Chef, you will ...

QSCulinary

Cook

Springfield, MO · On-site

$11.75 - $15.75/hr

You will collaborate closely with kitchen staff, including the Head Chef, to maintain a clean and organized workspace while adhering to health and safety regulations. This role requires physical ...

Great Lakes Management Group

Cook

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Experience working under the supervision of a Head Chef or in a similar culinary leadership role. * Knowledge of food production processes specific to hospitality services within real estate or ...

Great Lakes Management Group

Cook

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Experience working under the supervision of a Head Chef or in a similar culinary leadership role. * Knowledge of food production processes specific to hospitality services within real estate or ...

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All JobsHead Chef JobsHead Chef Jobs in Missouri

Head Chef information

See Missouri salary details

$26.7K

$60K

$89.1K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Missouri is $60,027.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 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 Missouri?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Missouri are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Head Chef job openings:

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

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

Head Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% 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 $60,027 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Head Chef

Aubrey

Saint Louis, MO

$50K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

We’re looking for a skilled and passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen team, drive culinary excellence, and take our menu to the next level. If you have a deep love for food, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to quality, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Position Overview:

As the Head Chef, you’ll be responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations—from menu creation and food quality to staff development and cost control. You will lead by example, inspire your team, and maintain the highest culinary standards to deliver an outstanding dining experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Kitchen Leadership: Direct daily kitchen operations and manage a team of chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff

• Menu Development: Design, refine, and execute a creative, seasonal menu aligned with the restaurant’s concept and goals

• Food Quality and Consistency: Ensure every dish meets high standards for flavor, presentation, and consistency

• Staff Training and Development: Hire, train, and mentor kitchen staff to create a strong, collaborative team culture

• Inventory and Cost Management: Oversee food purchasing, control costs, monitor portioning, and reduce waste

• Health and Safety Compliance: Ensure compliance with all food safety and sanitation regulations (ServSafe certification preferred)

• Cross-Department Collaboration: Partner with front-of-house leadership and ownership to align kitchen performance with overall business objectives

• Expedite and Problem-Solving: Oversee service during busy shifts, manage workflow, and handle issues quickly and professionally

What We’re Looking For:

• Experience: Minimum 3+ years as a Head Chef, Executive Chef, or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume kitchen

• Culinary Expertise: Strong command of cooking techniques, industry trends, and kitchen operations

• Leadership and Team Management: Ability to train, motivate, and manage a kitchen team with professionalism and energy

• Creativity and Passion: A genuine enthusiasm for food, flavor, and designing unique, guest-driven dishes

• Financial Acumen: Proven experience managing food costs, inventory, and vendor relationships

• Time Management and Organization: Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment

• Communication Skills: Clear, professional communicator with staff, vendors, and leadership