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Head Chef Jobs in Dothan, AL (NOW HIRING)

Zacks Family Restauant

Be Seen First

Cook Prep

Dothan, AL · On-site

$10 - $13/hr

Reporting directly to the Head Chef, this position regularly handles perishable goods and operates commercial kitchen equipment to ensure smooth food preparation and adherence to health standards.

New

Zacks Family Restauant

Be Seen First

Cook Prep

Dothan, AL · On-site

$10 - $13/hr

Reporting directly to the Head Chef, this position regularly handles perishable goods and operates commercial kitchen equipment to ensure smooth food preparation and adherence to health standards.

New

Jim 'N Nick's

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 ...

Walk On's Sports Bistreaux

Line Cook

Dothan, AL

$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.

Walk On's

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.

All JobsHead Chef JobsHead Chef Jobs in Dothan, AL

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 26, 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 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 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:

Head Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Dothan, AL as of August 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.

Cook Prep

Zacks Family Restauant

Dothan, AL • On-site

$10 - $13/hr

Part-time

Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Cook Prep role is integral to the efficiency of a medium-sized kitchen, supporting the culinary team by preparing ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and organizing the workspace. Reporting directly to the Head Chef, this position regularly handles perishable goods and operates commercial kitchen equipment to ensure smooth food preparation and adherence to health standards.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare ingredients according to recipe specifications and safety standards
  • Maintain sanitation and cleanliness throughout the kitchen area
  • Organize kitchen tools, ingredients, and equipment efficiently
  • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations

Preferred Qualifications

  • Entry-level experience in food preparation
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Knowledge of food safety practices
  • Strong time management skills
  • Understanding of sanitation practices
  • Effective communication abilities
  • Teamwork and collaboration skills
  • Attention to detail

Company Description

Family Owned and Operated
Veteran Owned and Operated