ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Head Chef Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Vallarta Supermarkets

Culinary Field Chef

Merced, CA · On-site

Culinary Field Chef Classification: Exempt Reports to: Director of Culinary Job Summary: The Culinary Field Chef supports day-to-day field culinary operations across all foodservice programs ...

Vallarta Supermarkets

Culinary Field Chef

Merced, CA · On-site

Culinary Field Chef Classification: Exempt Reports to: Director of Culinary Job Summary: The Culinary Field Chef supports day-to-day field culinary operations across all foodservice programs ...

U.S. Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

Chowchilla, CA

$42K - $56K/yr

Sous Chef, Head Cook, Food Preparation Work. About Our Organization: The U.S. Army is wealth of possibilities for your future whether you are looking to build a meaningful career, continue your ...

U.S. Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

Hickman, CA

$36K - $49K/yr

Sous Chef, Head Cook, Food Preparation Work. About Our Organization: The U.S. Army is wealth of possibilities for your future whether you are looking to build a meaningful career, continue your ...

U.S. Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

Catheys Valley, CA

$36K - $48K/yr

Sous Chef, Head Cook, Food Preparation Work. About Our Organization: The U.S. Army is wealth of possibilities for your future whether you are looking to build a meaningful career, continue your ...

U.S. Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

Cressey, CA

$35K - $47K/yr

Sous Chef, Head Cook, Food Preparation Work. About Our Organization: The U.S. Army is wealth of possibilities for your future whether you are looking to build a meaningful career, continue your ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHead Chef JobsHead Chef Jobs in Merced, CA

Head Chef information

See Merced, CA salary details

$30.1K

$67.6K

$100.3K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Merced, CA is $67,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,800.00 and $79,200.00 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 Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Merced, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in Merced, CA?

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

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Head Chef job openings:

Head Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,580 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Culinary Field Chef

Vallarta Supermarkets

Merced, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Vallarta Supermarkets rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 124 rated grocery stores

Job description

Job Title: Culinary Field Chef
Classification: Exempt
Reports to: Director of Culinary
Job Summary:
The Culinary Field Chef supports day-to-day field culinary operations across all foodservice programs, ensuring consistent execution of Vallarta standards. This role provides hands-on operational support, coaching, and culinary expertise to Kitchen Managers and foodservice teams, while driving sales growth, product consistency, and an exceptional guest experience across all locations.
This position serves as a key field resource, supporting menu execution, recipe adherence, training, and operational improvements. The Culinary Field Chef collaborates closely with the Corporate Chef and cross-functional teams to support menu development, product rollouts, and company-wide culinary initiatives.
The role plays a critical part in new store openings, training execution, and ongoing operational support, with approximately 80% of time spent in field locations.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide culinary and operational support across all foodservice concepts (Taqueria, Tortilleria, Restaurants, etc.)
  • Coach and support Kitchen Managers on execution, standards, and guest service
  • Ensure consistency in recipes, portioning, presentation, and flavor profiles
  • Lead training and field execution of new menu items and programs
  • Support product development and assist with implementation in the field
  • Identify operational improvements to improve cost, efficiency, and quality
  • Reinforce company standards, culture, and guest experience expectations
  • Monitor performance and support business initiatives aligned with company goals

Operational Responsibilities:
  • Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards
  • Support food cost control, inventory, and operational reporting
  • Maintain kitchen cleanliness, organization, and efficiency
  • Assist with new store openings, remodels, and training execution
  • Ensure consistency of recipes, procedures, and training materials
  • Assist with staffing, onboarding, and team development as needed

Food Quality & Compliance:
  • Enforce recipe adherence, portion control, and food quality standards
  • Maintain HACCP compliance and food safety procedures
  • Monitor temperature control, storage, and handling practices
  • Conduct quality checks for taste, appearance, and consistency

Customer Service & Experience:
  • Deliver and model Vallarta's Nuestra CASA service standards
  • Support strong guest satisfaction and service execution
  • Address customer feedback professionally and promptly

Team Leadership & Development:
  • Provide coaching, training, and development to culinary teams
  • Promote accountability, teamwork, and performance standards
  • Partner with leadership on performance and operational needs

Collaboration & Communication:
  • Support operations across Taqueria, Prepared Foods, Juice Bar, Grab & Go, and Catering as assigned.
  • Maintain clear communication with leadership regarding production needs, shortages, or operational challenges.
  • Ensure timely escalation of issues that may impact food safety, quality, or service.

Safety:
  • Enforce all safety procedures and proper equipment use
  • Report incidents and maintain safe working conditions
  • Ensure adherence to company policies and standards

Other Duties:
  • Support all current and future culinary programs
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Required Education and Experience:
  • Minimum 5+ years in culinary, restaurant, or multi-unit operations leadership
  • Strong experience in foodservice operations and team development
  • Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred
  • Strong knowledge of food cost, labor, and inventory controls
  • Ability to train and lead in a fast-paced environment
  • High School Diploma required; Culinary Degree preferred
  • Equivalent experience may be considered

Working Conditions:
  • Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment
  • Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.)
  • Exposure to hot/cold environments and kitchen equipment
  • Moderate to loud noise levels

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is an exempt position. Work schedules may vary based on business needs, requiring flexibility in hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Approximately 80% of travel is required within the company's operating regions, including overnight stays. Mileage reimbursement is provided for approved business travel.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and employees may perform other duties as directed. All employees are expected to perform any reasonable task or request that is consistent with fulfilling company goals and objectives.

What Vallarta Supermarkets employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Vallarta Supermarkets logo

About Vallarta Supermarkets

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

For more than 35 years, Vallarta Supermarkets has been bringing families together over fresh and authentic food. When you enter Vallarta, you know right away that it’s about more than food shopping — it’s about celebrating. Celebrating the food, culture, colors, and vibrant energy of Mexico and Latin America. Vallarta offers a feast for ALL your senses. You can smell the sweet aromas from the bakery, hear the rhythms of the music playing, and different languages spoken all around you.

Industry

Supermarkets and grocery stores

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1985

Social media

FacebookInstagram

View All Vallarta Supermarkets Jobs

Apply