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Head Chef Jobs in Dothan, AL (NOW HIRING)

Line Cook

Dothan, AL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Your previous experience as a Line Cook, Expediter, Prep Cook, or Fry/Salad Chef is needed here at Jim N Nicks Bar-B-Q! They say if you can't stand the heat you should stay out the kitchen, but at ...

The Cook assists the Chef in production and fabrication of food products for kitchen preparation, cafeteria, banquet cooking, dining room, and fine dining. The Cook will maintain a passive leadership ...

Line Cook

Dothan, AL · On-site

$14 - $22/hr

Execute our chef-driven recipes with precision--prep, cook, and plate everything the Walk-On's way. * Keep it clean--practice "clean as you go" to maintain a safe, sanitary, and organized kitchen.

Line Cook

Dothan, AL · On-site

$14 - $22/hr

Execute our chef-driven recipes with precision-prep, cook, and plate everything the Walk-On's way. * Keep it clean-practice "clean as you go" to maintain a safe, sanitary, and organized kitchen.

Head Chef information

See Dothan, AL salary details

$25.9K

$58.2K

$86.4K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Dothan, AL is $58,176.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $68,200.00 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 Dothan, AL? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Dothan, AL are:
What cities near Dothan, AL are hiring for Head Chef jobs? Cities near Dothan, AL with the most Head Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Dothan, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,176 per year, or $28 per hour.

$14 - $17/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Jim 'N Nick's rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 20 rated casual dining restaurants


Job description

Earn $14-$17 an hour!
Your previous experience as a Line Cook, Expediter, Prep Cook, or Fry/Salad Chef is needed here at Jim N Nicks Bar-B-Q!
They say if you can't stand the heat you should stay out the kitchen, but at Jim 'N Nick's the kitchen is exactly where you want to be! Do you have a passion for food, serving your community and working with a team that feels like family? If so, a Back of the House position with Jim 'N Nick's is for YOU! No freezers - just great food made with passion and served with pride.
We Offer:
  • Competitive pay
  • Flexible schedules
  • Discounted meals
  • A work environment that is upbeat, exciting, and fun
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance, 401K plan, employer paid life insurance and vacation for eligible team members
  • Life Assistance Program
  • Team Member Assistance Fund

Our Culture
Our BBQ family is built on five core values:
  • Be Honest - We act with integrity
  • Be Respectful - We are humble, kind and gracious
  • Be Committed - We go the extra mile
  • Be Disciplined - We do it the JNN way - every day
  • Be Supportive - we appreciate our JNN family, our community, and our partners

Requirements:
  • Passion to serve the guest
  • Committed to teamwork - none of us can succeed without all of us
  • Possess a positive attitude
  • Enjoy working in a fast paced environment
  • Respect the adherence to health, safety and sanitation procedures
  • Ability to clean as you go and stay organized

Physical Requirements (Reasonable Accommodations may be requested)
Performs duties that require bending, lifting, reaching and turning. Transports items and containers (weighing up to 50 lbs.) to and from stock and kitchen locations. Is able to stand up to 8 hours or longer if needed.
NOTE: The duties and responsibilities in this job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned as needed to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
DEFCON1HRLY
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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