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

Sous Chef

Loudon, TN ยท 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

Loudon, TN ยท 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 -- Knoxville Ghost Kitchen | $24-25/hour Knoxville Ghost Kitchen, located in Cumberland Food Hall on the University of Tennessee campus, is hiring a Sous Chef. This is a hands-on kitchen ...

Sous Chef

Maryville, TN ยท On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

Assists the Executive Chef in all phases of planning, ordering, inventory, and food preparation. Assumes full responsibility of all culinary operations in the absence of the Executive Chef. ESSENTIAL ...

Sous Chef

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Assists the Executive Chef in all phases of planning, ordering, inventory, and food preparation. Assumes full responsibility of all culinary operations in the absence of the Executive Chef. ESSENTIAL ...

Sous Chef

Maryville, TN ยท 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 ...

SOUS CHEF/COOK - BANQUET HALL

Knoxville, TN ยท 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 ยท 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 ยท 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 - Blackberry Mountain

Walland, TN ยท On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

Millers Cove RdWalland, TN 37886 The Sous Chef supports daily kitchen operations by assisting in leadership, execution, and quality control across all stations. This role helps oversee food ...

Sous Chef - Blackberry Mountain

Walland, TN ยท On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

Millers Cove Rd Walland, TN 37886 The Sous Chef supports daily kitchen operations by assisting in leadership, execution, and quality control across all stations. This role helps oversee food ...

SOUS CHEF

Maryville, TN ยท On-site

$19.75/hr

We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Address : 433 Maryville College, Circle D, Maryville, TN 37804. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Full time schedule ...

Sous Chef

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$50K/yr

Sous Chef Job Reference Number: 41444 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Dining & Events Brand: Lancer-Hospitality Location: Zoo Knoxville The Role at a glance: We are looking to add a ...

Sous Chef Job Reference Number: 41273 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Dining & Events Brand: Lancer-Hospitality Location: Knoxville , Tennessee (US-TN) [[location_obj]] The Role at a ...

Sous Chef

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Sous Chef Job Reference Number: 41273 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Dining & Events Brand: Lancer-Hospitality Location: Knoxville , Tennessee (US-TN) [[location_obj]] The Role at a ...

Sous Chef

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$50K/yr

Sous Chef Job Reference Number: 41444 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Dining & Events Brand: Lancer-Hospitality Location: Zoo Knoxville The Role at a glance: We are looking to add a ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 22, 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 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.

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,181 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

$21/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description


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 team! If you are dedicated and compassionate, WE WANT YOU!
What Will You Do in This Role?
As a Sous Chef, you will be responsible for ensuring all food items are prepared to culinary standards and provide residents with an exceptional dining experience while maintaining portion control and minimizing waste. The Sous Chef will also inspect all aspects of the culinary service, including logs, cooking equipment, storage rotation, and food service regularly to ensure they are up-to-date, clean, and sanitary. This role will perform area sanitation tasks, including cleaning of all cooking equipment and workstations, and ensure foot safety is performed at all times. As a Sous Chef, you will also assist in leading the culinary team in day-to-day operation.
Do You Have What It Takes?
  • A fire and passion for working with seniors
  • A flexible, fun, and energetic personality
  • High school diploma, or equivalent, preferred
  • Minimum of two years of experience as a chef in a large-scale cooking operation preferred
  • Prior dietary experience in a LTC/SNF/AL/MC setting preferred
  • Professional image in both appearance and behavior
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills

Why is Tutera THE Employer of Choice?
  • Tutera Senior Living & Health Care is guided by one single purpose: To live the YOUNITE philosophy in every decision, every day. Based on genuine respect, YOUNITE is how we get to know residents and team members on a personal level. By asking about our employees' and residents' unique needs and preferences, we actively listen and then deliver. Do you want to work for a company where you are the driving force behind every decision made?
  • Tutera offers stability; our family-owned company was founded in 1985!
  • Tutera offers a competitive starting wage and amazing benefits! We take care of you so you can be a rockstar at work and at home!
  • Tutera Senior Living & Health Care is dedicated to growing and developing our Tutera rockstars. Through Tutera University, every employee has the opportunity to learn new skills and become the best health care rockstar they can be!

Apply today and let us show you how we are inspired by you.
Equal Opportunity Employer. The wage and benefit information provided in this listing is subject to change. Benefits eligibility criteria must be met to enroll in available benefits.
Benefits
How Can You Benefit?
  • Advanced Pay
  • Financial Literacy Classes
  • Employee Assistance Program offering Mental Health Resources, Legal Guidance, Financial Information, and more!
  • Child Care Discount
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) for Eligible Locations
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Pay
  • Exclusive Tutera Perks
  • Tutera University
  • Advancement Opportunities

Job ID
2026-18775