ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Head Chef Jobs in El Reno, OK (NOW HIRING)

Upper Crust Food Service

Sous Chef

Norman, OK · On-site

$43K - $59K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Gordon Ramsay North America

Executive Chef

Oklahoma City, OK

$67K - $93K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Previous experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a premium, high-volume quality restaurant. * A strong understanding of classic cooking methods and seasonality, with the ability to innovate ...

Ramsay's Kitchen - Oklahoma

Executive Chef

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$67K - $93K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Previous experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a premium, high-volume quality restaurant. * A strong understanding of classic cooking methods and seasonality, with the ability to innovate ...

Ramsay's Kitchen - Oklahoma

Executive Chef

Oklahoma City, OK

$90K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Previous experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a premium, high-volume quality restaurant. * A strong understanding of classic cooking methods and seasonality, with the ability to innovate ...

Ramsay's Kitchen

Executive Chef

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Previous experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a premium, high-volume quality restaurant. * A strong understanding of classic cooking methods and seasonality, with the ability to innovate ...

PF Changs

Executive Chef

Oklahoma City, OK

$75K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Oklahoma City, OK

$75K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

P.F. Chang's

Executive Chef

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

RESTOREOKC, INC

Job Opportunities

Oklahoma City, OK

$11.50 - $15.25/hr

EASTSIDE EATERYCAFE & COFFEE SHOP (LOCATED @ THE MARKET AT EASTPOINT) The Eastside Eatery opened inside The Market at Eastpoint in 2021 with head chef Brandi Jones! The Eatery serves breakfast and ...

The Capital Grille

Executive Chef Partner

Oklahoma City, OK

$66K - $91K/yr

The Executive Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a ... Proven success as head of kitchen operations in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort ...

Capital Grille

Executive Chef Partner

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

The Executive Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a ... Proven success as head of kitchen operations in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort ...

The Capital Grille

Executive Chef Partner

Oklahoma City, OK

$66K - $91K/yr

The Executive Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a ... Proven success as head of kitchen operations in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort ...

The Capital Grille

Executive Chef Partner

Oklahoma City, OK

$66K - $91K/yr

The Executive Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a ... Proven success as head of kitchen operations in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort ...

Upper Crust Food Service

Student Steward

Norman, OK · On-site

$13 - $18/hr

May perform a variety of food preparation duties as directed by the Head Chef and/or Sous Chef such as salad bar and cold dishes * Assist in unloading and putting away deliveries * Maintain a ...

Dexterra

Sous Chef

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

The Sous Chef is fully responsible for the food service operation at a Dexterra workforce accommodations facility. This role provides strategic and hands-on leadership across all culinary functions ...

Dexterra

Sous Chef

Oklahoma City, OK

$46K - $62K/yr

The Sous Chef is fully responsible for the food service operation at a Dexterra workforce accommodations facility. This role provides strategic and hands‑on leadership across all culinary functions ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHead Chef JobsHead Chef Jobs in El Reno, OK

Head Chef information

See El Reno, OK salary details

$24.5K

$55.1K

$81.7K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in El Reno, OK is $55,052.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,000.00 and $64,500.00 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 El Reno, OK?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in El Reno, OK are:

What cities near El Reno, OK are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities near El Reno, OK with the most Head Chef job openings:

Head Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in El Reno, OK as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,052 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Traveling Chef

Upper Crust Food Service

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Upper Crust Food Service rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 68 rated caterers

Job description

Proudly serving Sororities and Fraternities, Upper Crust Food Service is known for freshness, quality, variety, and excellent customer service. Upper Crust Food Service began with a vision to solve a problem that many Fraternity and Sorority houses face. That problem is a lack of consistency and professionalism in the kitchen. With a focus on great food and personal service, we've remained true to our roots. Today, the chefs of Upper Crust Food Service prepare tens of thousands of meals weekly for students across the country.
The Traveling Chef is tasked with providing coverage for Head Chefs nationwide. This role requires traveling to various locations to address personnel gaps in kitchens. While on-site, the Traveling Chef assumes the responsibilities of the Head Chef, which include creating, planning, and executing weekly menus from scratch, incorporating feedback from both clients and the management team. The Traveling Chef will oversee all food preparation and staff, ensuring alignment with the company's core values and culture. Additionally, they are responsible for maintaining the highest standards of sanitation practices within the kitchen. Effective communication with management and customers is essential to consistently deliver exceptional products and customer service.
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for providing hands-on best practice training to staff members while on-site at each kitchen
  • Prepare, design, and execute menus
    • Menu meetings with the chapter will be required.
  • Create high-quality meals with excellent presentation and flavor.
  • Send photos regularly of meal presentations to management
  • Maintain a clean and sanitary kitchen and dining room
  • Wash kitchen utensils, equipment and dishes.
  • Ensure the kitchen operates in a timely manner
  • Manage kitchen staffs' schedules and assess performance with management's approval.
  • Order supplies in accordance with budgetary requirements and stock inventory
  • Check and put away stock order
  • Enforce sanitation and food safety standards per state and local regulations.
  • Maintain a professional and positive attitude with coworkers and customers.
  • Assist in planning and executing special events as directed by management.
  • Communicate regularly with management via calls, emails, and texts.
  • Resourcefully solve any issues that arise and seize control of any problematic situation with assistance from management
  • Ensure compliance with all policies among staff.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Required Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to work well as part of a team.
  • Demonstrate understanding and proficiency in various cooking methods, cuisines, ingredients, equipment, and procedures
  • Show understanding of and commit to a professional appearance and positive attitude
  • Maintain excellent record of kitchen and staff management
  • Accuracy and speed in handling emergency situations and providing solutions
  • Diplomacy
  • Agility and ability to have a big picture perspective
  • Be familiar with the industry's best practices

Preferred Education and Experience:
  • 3+ years in professional, high-volume food production or catering, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience.
  • Supervisory Experience
  • Culinary degree is a plus
  • Must hold a valid manager level sanitation certification or obtain one within 30 days of employment

Special Demands:
  • The work environment can be loud and busy. There are many kitchen hazards such as hot surfaces and liquids, sharp knives, and slippery floors.
  • Capability to work in a kitchen environment that may involve exposure to extreme heat or cold.
  • Required to stand for long periods, up to 8+ hours, as well as walk, bend and stoop.
  • Must be able to lift and/or move objects up to 50 pounds.
  • Exposure to cleaning chemicals

Upper Crust Food Service provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

What Upper Crust Food Service employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply