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Head Chef Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Head Chef to join our James Beard award winning team at one of our D.C Michelin starred restaurants: Rose's Luxury, Little Pearl, and Pineapple and Pearls, and Extra Fancy, our ...

HEAD OF CULINARY WASHINGTON, DC THE BEST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD. THE BEST-ISH BAGELS IN THE WORLD ... Husband-and-wife team Andrew and Chef Dani built Call Your Mother around a simple idea: make ...

HEAD OF CULINARY WASHINGTON, DC THE BEST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD. THE BEST-ISH BAGELS IN THE WORLD ... Husband-and-wife team Andrew and Chef Dani built Call Your Mother around a simple idea: make ...

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K/yr

Be working with the Head Chef to lead the team in the production of our food, compiling the daily mise-en-place, and ensuring that all food is cooked and presented to our exceptional Ned standards

SOUS CHEF

Davidsonville, MD · On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

When the head chef is away, the sous chef is in charge. Leads kitchen team in chef's absence Provides guidance to junior kitchen staff members, including, but not limited, to line cooking, food ...

SOUS CHEF

Severna Park, MD · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

When the head chef is away, the sous chef is in charge. Leads kitchen team in chef's absence Provides guidance to junior kitchen staff members, including, but not limited, to line cooking, food ...

SOUS CHEF

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

When the head chef is away, the sous chef is in charge. Leads kitchen team in chef's absence Provides guidance to junior kitchen staff members, including, but not limited, to line cooking, food ...

Kitchen Manager/Garde Manger

Burke, VA · On-site

$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 ...

We also require a head chef that can produce non-vegan menus for our catering clients. These events are typically short plated corporate dinners or intimate private dinners. Average guest counts ...

SOUS CHEF

Severna Park, MD · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

When the head chef is away, the sous chef is in charge. Leads kitchen team in chef's absence. Provides guidance to junior kitchen staff members, including, but not limited, to line cooking, food ...

SOUS CHEF

Davidsonville, MD · On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

When the head chef is away, the sous chef is in charge. Leads kitchen team in chef's absence. Provides guidance to junior kitchen staff members, including, but not limited, to line cooking, food ...

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Head Chef information

See Washington salary details

$32.3K

$72.5K

$107.6K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Washington is $72,480.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,600.00 and $84,900.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in Washington? For Head Chef jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Chef jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Head Chef jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Head Chef jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Head Chef job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in WA? For Head Chef jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,480 per year, or $34.8 per hour.

$76K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Tatte began in 2007 in a home kitchen with a passion for baking and the belief that well-crafted food has the power to bring people together. That spirit continues to guide us today.

We are a design-forward bakery and café bringing together handcrafted food, exceptional coffee, warm hospitality, and beautiful spaces designed for gathering, connection, and everyday ritual.

At our core, we are craftspeople. Chefs, bakers, baristas, and café teams united by a shared passion for excellence. We believe even the smallest details matter, because every dish, every cup of coffee, and every interaction is an opportunity to brighten someone's day.

WHY TATTE

We're looking for people who believe hospitality matters and share our mission: To Inspire, Care for, and Nurture Life. Every day.

At Tatte, we believe craft is more than a skill. It's a way of caring. It's found in the details: a perfectly prepared dish, a thoughtfully crafted guest experience, and a team committed to excellence. We believe these small acts, repeated every day, have the power to make life a little richer and more meaningful.

You'll join a team that takes pride in its work, supports one another, and is committed to learning and growth. We hold ourselves to high standards while creating an environment where people can develop their talents, build meaningful careers, and make an impact.

As we continue to grow, so do the opportunities for our team. Whether you're exploring a new path or taking the next step in your career, you'll help create moments of inspiration, comfort, and connection for our guests each day.

Because while we serve exceptional food, coffee, and pastries, we hope to create something more enduring: places where people feel welcomed, cared for, and inspired to return again and again.

THE ROLE

The Cafe Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations within the café and plays a critical role in the success and growth of the kitchen team. Cafe Head Chefs may supervise up to 25 team members, including Line Cooks, Prep Cooks, and Dishwashers. This role requires the ability to engage, inspire, and lead a strong team while maintaining operational excellence in a fast paced, high volume environment.

Our Cafe Head Chefs work closely with both Front and Back of House teams to deliver exceptional food quality, consistency, and hospitality standards throughout the café.

Successful Cafe Head Chefs are passionate about culinary excellence, thrive in fast paced kitchen environments, and are committed to developing strong teams while upholding Tatte’s standards for quality, execution, and guest experience.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead with professionalism, accountability, and strong kitchen leadership
  • Maintain high standards for food quality, consistency, cleanliness, and organization
  • Develop, coach, and support kitchen team members
  • Lead kitchen operations with efficiency and attention to detail
  • Uphold all food safety, sanitation, and operational standards
  • Live Tatte’s core values and help support our mission
  • Have flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Run kitchen production and service according to established operational guidelines
  • Follow and enforce recipe, portioning, and presentation standards
  • Complete and utilize daily production worksheets and waste logs while monitoring food quality
  • Train kitchen staff in food preparation, safe handling, equipment operation, food safety, and sanitation standards
  • Establish and maintain cleaning and maintenance schedules for kitchen equipment, storage, and work areas
  • Maintain inventory levels within established guidelines while ensuring product availability
  • Follow company safety and sanitation policies and procedures
  • Participate in meetings, trainings, and professional development programs as needed
  • Support implementation and execution of seasonal menu changes
  • Other duties as assigned

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Ability to work a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Ability to work 10+ hour shifts and stand, sit, squat, or walk for extended periods of time
  • Ability to grasp, reach overhead, push, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Required

  • Minimum 3–5 years of progressive culinary or kitchen management experience, depending on formal education or training
  • Proven passion for culinary excellence and exceeding guest expectations
  • Strong operational knowledge and understanding of systems, methods, and processes that contribute to successful kitchen execution
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail
  • High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred

  • Hospitality Education – A.O.S. Degree in Culinary Arts or Culinary Certificate with required experience
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, and Outlook
  • Previous experience working with UKG/UltiPro, Toast POS, CrunchTime, and TeamworX
  • ServSafe, Allergen, and ChokeSaver certifications

OUR BENEFITS & PERKS

  • Competitive Pay: $76,000–$96,000 annually, depending on experience
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Parking benefit when applicable
  • Free employee assistance program services
  • Flexible schedules with no late nights
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid sick and vacation time
  • Hands on and classroom style training
  • Free meals and drinks
  • Exciting potential for growth

Please note that we hire managers for the market, and while we strive to place them in cafés that are convenient to them, we do not guarantee placement at specific cafés.

Learn more about us at tattebakery.com

Join us on our journey to create something special!

Please note that Tatte is an E Verify employer.

More detail about Tatte Bakery & Cafe - DC Corporate Office part of Tatte Bakery & Café, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/1089710-Tatte-Bakery-%2526-Cafe---DC-Corporate-Office