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

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 ...

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 ...

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 · On-site

$50K/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 ...

* We are hiring immediately for a Chef Manager. Make a difference in the lives of people, your community, and yourself . At Morrison Healthcare, a Compass Healthcare company, you'll join a culture that ...

* We are hiring immediately for a Chef Manager. Make a difference in the lives of people, your community, and yourself . At Morrison Healthcare, a Compass Healthcare company, you'll join a culture that ...

* We are hiring immediately for a Chef Manager. Make a difference in the lives of people, your community, and yourself . At Morrison Healthcare, a Compass Healthcare company, you'll join a culture that ...

Sous-Chef

Farragut, TN

$43K - $59K/yr

Essential Functions * Function as a team, assisting coworkers as the need arises. * Use equipment and supplies effectively, safely, and efficiently * Must handle various cleaning solvents, chemicals ...

Looking for experienced kitchen member that has experience: Working line Prep items Following recipes Handles stress Menu item creation / design Plating Portion controls Knife skills Team player ...

Sous Chef

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Looking for experienced kitchen member that has experience: Working line Prep items Following recipes Handles stress Menu item creation / design Plating Portion controls Knife skills Team player ...

Line Cook

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

Line Cook

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

Job title Line Cook Reports to Executive Chef Classification Hourly Full-time, Part-time, Nonexempt Working Hours According to shift assignments Job purpose Prepares food as directed by the Chef or ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Compass Group

Maryville, TN • On-site

$19.75/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,093 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

347th of 495 rated business services


Job description

Location: Maryville College

  • 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; days and hours may vary. Multiple shifts available. More details upon interview.
  • Requirement: 2-3 years of prior BOH leadership experience required. 
  • Pay Range:  $15.75 per hour to $19.75 per hour.

We Make Applying Easy!  Want to apply to this job via text messaging?  Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1550091

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with Compass Group. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: http://olivia.paradox.ai/moSkg

Application Deadline: applications are accepted ongoing until all openings are filled for this position. If an applicant is declined due to the position being filled, they may still be considered for future opportunities and are always welcome to reapply.

Join our campus team where you are valued and empowered to make a difference. Enjoy competitive wages, benefits, and perks like Instapay through the One @Work app. Our careers are filled with purpose and encourage learning, growth, and meaningful impact. Apply today!

Job Summary


Summary:   Helps Executive Chef prepare and cook foods. Coordinates activities of cooks and other food-service associates. Assumes responsibility for kitchen and food-service associates in the absence of Executive Chef.  
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Cooks and prepares food following approved recipes and production standards. Ensures all deadlines are met based on production orders.
  • Supervises hourly food service associates. Includes interviewing, scheduling, payroll, training, counseling, participating in reviews and recommending disciplinary action, as appropriate.
  • Stores food in designated areas following all corporate, state and federal food safety and sanitation procedures.
  • Ensures proper food handling, presentation, portion control and maintenance of appropriate serving temperatures.
  • Maintains sanitation of equipment, supplies and utensils. Cleans workstation thoroughly before leaving area. Keeps display equipment clean and free of debris during meal service to comply with all sanitation, safety, production and merchandising requirements.
  • Interacts with customers to resolve complaints in a friendly, service-oriented manner. Relays relevant information directly to supervisor.
  • Demonstrates complete understanding of daily menu items and accurately explains them to associates and customers.
  • Keeps up with peak production and service hours.
  • Monitors inventory and deliveries of product and supplies. Tracks product production, consumption and waste. Informs supervisor when supplies or product are low.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

The Benefits

We are always looking for ways to invest in our people both inside and outside of work to help them achieve their full potential. Both full-time and part-time associates are eligible for the following benefits:

  • Opportunities for Training and Development
  • Retirement Plan
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program


In addition, full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Maryland, Washington State, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_ChartwellsHED.pdf

Because this position requires you to perform services in an educational facility, there may be periods when the Company does not require you to perform work (such as winter and summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the Company's behalf may be unpaid and deemed a temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round, potentially at a different location during break periods.  Business needs may vary from year to year.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law. 
 

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. 

Chartwells Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace. 


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