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Head Chef Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

... with Head Chefs, Chef Managers, and Lounge Managers to exceed guest expectations Adhere to OH&S requirements and actively contribute to waste minimization The Person Certificate III in Commercial ...

Sous Chef

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

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 ...

Sous Chef

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Work with the Head Chef, ensuring that food is prepared safely, efficiently, and according to specifications or requests. * Collaborate with the Chef to create seasonal, relevant and evolving menu ...

Pantry

Maryville, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous experience in a similar role is preferred * ServeSafe or Food Handler's Certification or the ability to get ...

Kitchen

Farragut, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

... head chef or restaurant manager Requirements: - Proven experience as a Cook in a busy restaurant setting is a plus - Knowledge of food safety standards and quality - Ability to work in a fast-paced ...

Chef

Mascot, TN · On-site

$29.46 - $45.27/hr

Chef Apply now Job no: 719236 Work type: Casual, Full Time, Part Time Location: Mascot Categories: Chef Chef Earn Between $29.46 - $45.27 Per Hour + 12% Superannuation * Full time, part time and ...

Chef

Mascot, TN · On-site

$29.46 - $50.21/hr

Chef Apply now Job no: 720037 Work type: Full Time, Part Time Location: Mascot Categories: Chef, Chef Supervisor Earn between $29.46 - $50.21 p/h + Super * Full time, part time and casual roles ...

Chef

Mascot, TN · On-site

$29.46/hr

Chef Apply now Job no: 718915 Work type: Casual, Full Time Location: Mascot Categories: Chef, Kitchen Support, Cook $29.46 Per Hour + Penalty Rates + 12% Superannuation * Premium Airlines Lounge

Sous Chef

Loudon, TN · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Sous Chef Tellico Village | Loudon, TN Are you a Sous Chef seeking an exciting new career opportunity? Look no further! Tutera Senior Living & Health Care is seeking culinary rockstars to join our ...

Sous Chef

Loudon, TN · On-site

$21/hr

Sous Chef Tellico Village | Loudon, TN Are you a Sous Chef seeking an exciting new career opportunity? Look no further! Tutera Senior Living & Health Care is seeking culinary rockstars to join our ...

Sous Chef

Midtown, TN · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Sous Chef Location : Dallas, TX Hours : Full Time Salary :$65,000 - $70,000/yr Pay Frequency: Weekly - Direct Deposit What We Offer You: * Generous Compensation & Benefits Package * Health, Dental ...

Sous Chef

Walland, TN

$48K - $64K/yr

The Sous Chef supports daily kitchen operations by assisting in leadership, execution, and quality control across all stations. This role helps oversee food preparation, presentation, and service ...

Sous Chef

Walland, TN

$48K - $64K/yr

The Sous Chef supports daily kitchen operations by assisting in leadership, execution, and quality control across all stations. This role helps oversee food preparation, presentation, and service ...

Sous Chef

Maryville, TN · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary We are seeking a talented Sous Chef to join our team. The ideal candidate is experienced, detail oriented, and a strong leader. Responsibilities: * Create ...

Chef De Cuisine

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$63K - $86K/yr

Chef de Cuisine Cherokee Country Club | Knoxville, Tennessee Lead a Great Kitchen. Build Great People. Cherokee Country Club is seeking a passionate, driven, and team-oriented Chef de Cuisine to join ...

New

Chef de Cuisine

Knoxville, TN

$54K - $75K/yr

Chef de Cuisine Cherokee Country Club | Knoxville, Tennessee Lead a Great Kitchen. Build Great People Cherokee Country Club is seeking a passionate, driven, and team-oriented Chef de Cuisine to join ...

New

SOUS CHEF/COOK - BANQUET HALL

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$41K - $55K/yr

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Sous Chef/Cook to join our banquet hall culinary team. The ideal candidate will assist in planning, preparing, and executing high-volume banquet events ...

SOUS CHEF/COOK - BANQUET HALL

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$41K - $55K/yr

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Sous Chef/Cook to join our banquet hall culinary team. The ideal candidate will assist in planning, preparing, and executing high-volume banquet events ...

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Head Chef information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$27.2K

$61.2K

$90.8K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Oak Ridge, TN is $61,181.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,800.00 and $71,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Chef, and why are they important?

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.

How much do head chefs make on average?

The average salary for a head chef is around $50,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on the location, restaurant size, and experience. Experienced head chefs in high-end establishments can earn over $80,000 annually, especially with additional certifications or specialized skills. Salaries may also include benefits such as bonuses and tips in some settings.

How much does a head chef's salary?

The salary of a head chef typically ranges from $45,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on the location, restaurant size, and experience. In high-end establishments or major cities, salaries can exceed $100,000. Many head chefs also receive benefits such as bonuses, health insurance, and paid time off.

What are Head Chefs?

Head Chefs are the leaders of a kitchen, responsible for overseeing all culinary operations in a restaurant or food service establishment. They create menus, manage kitchen staff, ensure food quality, and maintain health and safety standards. Head Chefs also handle inventory, order supplies, and may be involved in budgeting and cost control. Their role is both creative and managerial, making them essential to the success of any professional kitchen.

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 is the highest paying type of chef?

Executive chefs and head chefs typically earn the highest salaries among culinary professionals, especially in fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, or private clubs. Their compensation can include base salary, bonuses, and profit sharing, often exceeding $70,000 annually depending on location and experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What job categories do people searching Head Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Head Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Head Chef jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Head Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,181 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,081 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

342nd of 487 rated business services


Job description

Chef

Apply now Job no: 719914
Work type: Casual
Location: Mascot
Categories: Chef

Chef 
$33.33 + 25% casual loading ($41.66 inclusive)

Join a world-class team and showcase your skills at Sydney Airport Lounges
True flexibility - build a roster that suits your lifestyle
Gain premium hospitality experience in an exclusive, fast-paced environment

At Compass Group, we believe in serving a better future by enriching people, communities, and our planet through food and support services. Our focus is on people - their wellbeing and the positive impact we create in the communities we serve.

We are currently seeking passionate and qualified Chefs to join our Sydney Airport Lounges Casual Pool team. This is a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic, high-profile environment while enjoying the flexibility to choose your shifts.

The Position

Prepare, cook, and present high-quality meals for premium airport lounges
Ensure strict compliance with food safety, allergen awareness, and dietary requirements
Maintain a high standard of kitchen cleanliness and organisation
Work closely with Head Chefs, Chef Managers, and Lounge Managers to exceed guest expectations
Adhere to OH&S requirements and actively contribute to waste minimization


The Person

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (minimum requirement)
Previous chef experience in a similar role is preferred
Exceptional communication skills and a passion for premium hospitality
High energy, professional presentation, and the ability to thrive under pressure
Must hold a current National Police Check
Willingness to obtain an ASIC (Aviation Security Identification Card) - cost covered by Compass Group

The Benefits

Exclusive experience working in premium airport lounges
Flexibility at its best - choose shifts that suit your lifestyle
Career growth opportunities within one of the world's largest contract catering organisations
Comprehensive training and support to set you up for success

If you are a skilled and motivated Chef who thrives in a premium hospitality environment, join Compass Group today and elevate your career at Sydney Airport Lounges.

Advertised: 12 Jun 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close:

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