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Head Chef Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Alpha Pitt Smokers

Head Chef

Yorktown, VA

$50K - $60K/yr

Job details- We're looking for a hands-on kitchen leader who understands that running a kitchen is about more than cooking--it's about profitability, systems, and consistency. This role is for ...

Silver Branch Brewing Co.

Warrenton Sous Chef

Warrenton, VA · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

Working alongside the Head Chef, you'll help lead a talented kitchen team serving handcrafted pizza, elevated pub fare, and food that pairs perfectly with our award-winning beer. If you're someone ...

New

Crestview Management, LLC

Executive Chef

Arlington, VA

$90K - $110K/yr

Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a high-volume, upscale restaurant or hospitality environment. * Exceptional culinary skills with a strong understanding of various cuisines and ...

New

UP On The Roof

Executive Chef

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$70K - $97K/yr

Requirements: -Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a high-volume restaurant or hospitality environment. -Exceptional culinary skills with a passion for creativity and innovation ...

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions

QSR Chef

Woodford, VA · On-site

QSR Chef Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is seeking a QSR Chef . In this role, you will oversee all main kitchen food production, including recipe management, ordering food and supplies, and ...

Halal Delivery

Line Cook

Haymarket, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Cook ingredients as directed by the head chef or sous chef, plating dishes as indicated by recipes * Adhere to all health and safety standards when preparing food * Provide assistance to the head ...

P.F. Chang's

Executive Chef

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$89K - $109K/yr

Hiring immediately for full-time salaried Executive Chef or Head Chef or Executive Kitchen Manager (EKM): Job Summary: The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager is responsible for managing the restaurant ...

PF Changs

Executive Chef

Fairfax, VA

$89K - $109K/yr

Hiring immediately for full-time salaried Executive Chef or Head Chef or Executive Kitchen Manager (EKM): Job Summary: The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager is responsible for managing the restaurant ...

PF Changs

Executive Chef

Fairfax, VA

$89K - $109K/yr

Hiring immediately for full-time salaried Executive Chef or Head Chef or Executive Kitchen Manager (EKM): Job Summary: The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager is responsible for managing the restaurant ...

Compass Group

CHEF

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$27/hr

We are hiring immediately for a full-time CHEF position. * Address : George Mason University - 4353 Chesapeake River Lane, Fairfax, VA 22030. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : The ...

the Chef Agency

Kitchen Manager/Garde Manger

Burke, VA

$60K - $75K/yr

Work collaboratively with the Head Chef and kitchen team to cook and prepare menu items according to established standards. * Follow recipes and plating guidelines to ensure consistency, quality, and ...

P.F. Chang's China Bistro, Inc.

Executive Chef

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$89 - $109/hr

Hiring immediately for full-time salaried Executive Chef or Head Chef or Executive Kitchen Manager (EKM) Job Summary The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager is responsible for managing the restaurant ...

New

Sushi by Bou Global LLC

Head Sushi Chef

Reston, VA · On-site

$1.2K - $1.8K/wk

Position Overview The Head Sushi Chef leads culinary execution at the venue and sets the tone for both the team and the guest experience. This hands-on role calls for an accomplished sushi chef who ...

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Sous Chef - Downtown, DC

Reston, VA · On-site

$68K - $81K/yr

In the absence of the Head Chef, the Sous Chef is responsible for overall kitchen execution, ensuring adherence to recipe standards, food safety practices, operational procedures, and guest ...

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Sous Chef - Downtown, DC

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$68K - $81K/yr

In the absence of the Head Chef, the Sous Chef is responsible for overall kitchen execution, ensuring adherence to recipe standards, food safety practices, operational procedures, and guest ...

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All JobsHead Chef JobsHead Chef Jobs in Virginia

Head Chef information

See Virginia salary details

$28.3K

$63.4K

$94.2K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Virginia is $63,445.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,600.00 and $74,400.00 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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Head Chef job openings:

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

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

Head Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,445 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Head Chef

Alpha Pitt Smokers

Yorktown, VA

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job details- We’re looking for a hands-on kitchen leader who understands that running a kitchen is about more than cooking—it’s about profitability, systems, and consistency.

This role is for someone who can own food cost, control waste, execute catering, and lead a team—not just work a line.

What You’ll Own:
Food cost management & hitting target percentages
Portion control and recipe consistency (no freelancing)
Inventory, ordering, and waste reduction
Catering production & execution
Prep systems and kitchen organization
Leading and holding cooks accountable
Working the line when needed—this is a working leadership role
What Success Looks Like:
Consistent plate quality and speed
Controlled food cost and minimal waste
Catering orders executed accurately and profitably
A kitchen that runs smoothly without constant oversight
What We’re Looking For:
Proven experience managing a kitchen (not just cooking in one)
Strong understanding of food cost, inventory, and margins
Leadership presence—your team respects you and follows your lead
Reliable and accountable—this is a key leadership position
Ability to stay composed and decisive during high-volume service
Compensation:
$50,000 – $60,000 salary (based on experience)
Growth opportunity with an expanding brand
Read This First:

If you’re looking to just cook and go home, this isn’t the job.
If you take pride in running a tight, efficient, and profitable kitchen—we want to talk.

Work Location: In person


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