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Head Chef Jobs in Reading, MA (NOW HIRING)

Fireside Catering LLC

Catering Head Chef

Burlington, MA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Description A Catering Head Chef works in both the Commissary in Burlington and weekends on the off-premise events. As a Catering Head Chef at Fireside Catering, you will be responsible for leading a ...

Fireside Catering

Catering Head Chef

Burlington, MA · On-site

$100/hr

A Catering Head Chef works in both the Commissary in Burlington and weekends on the off-premise events. As a Catering Head Chef at Fireside Catering, you will be responsible for leading a small team ...

Fireside Catering LLC

Catering Head Chef

Burlington, MA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

A Catering Head Chef works in both the Commissary in Burlington and weekends on the off-premise events. As a Catering Head Chef at Fireside Catering, you will be responsible for leading a small team ...

Bambola!

Head Chef

Boston, MA

Sneaky Good Hospitality (SGH) is launching its flagship restaurant in Seaport, and we're on the hunt for an exceptional Head Chef to bring our vision to life! If you live and breathe Italian cuisine ...

Bambola!

Head Chef

Boston, MA · On-site

DESCRIPTION Sneaky Good Hospitality (SGH) is launching its flagship restaurant in Seaport, and we're on the hunt for an exceptional Head Chef to bring our vision to life! If you live and breathe ...

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Cafe Head Chef - Boston

Boston, MA

$73K - $94K/yr

The Cafe Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations within the café and plays a critical role in the success and growth of the kitchen team. Cafe Head Chefs may supervise up to ...

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Cafe Head Chef - Boston

Boston, MA

$73K - $94K/yr

The Cafe Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations within the café and plays a critical role in the success and growth of the kitchen team. Cafe Head Chefs may supervise up to ...

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Cafe Head Chef - Boston

Boston, MA

$73K - $94K/yr

The Cafe Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations within the café and plays a critical role in the success and growth of the kitchen team. Cafe Head Chefs may supervise up to ...

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Cafe Head Chef - Boston

Boston, MA

$73K - $94K/yr

The Cafe Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations within the café and plays a critical role in the success and growth of the kitchen team. Cafe Head Chefs may supervise up to ...

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Cafe Head Chef - Boston

Boston, MA

$73K - $94K/yr

The Cafe Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations within the café and plays a critical role in the success and growth of the kitchen team. Cafe Head Chefs may supervise up to ...

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Cafe Head Chef - Boston

Boston, MA

$73K - $94K/yr

The Cafe Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations within the café and plays a critical role in the success and growth of the kitchen team. Cafe Head Chefs may supervise up to ...

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Cafe Head Chef - Boston

Boston, MA

$73K - $94K/yr

The Cafe Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations within the café and plays a critical role in the success and growth of the kitchen team. Cafe Head Chefs may supervise up to ...

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All JobsHead Chef JobsHead Chef Jobs in Reading, MA

Head Chef information

See Reading, MA salary details

$30.1K

$67.5K

$100.2K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Reading, MA is $67,526.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,800.00 and $79,100.00 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 Reading, MA?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Reading, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in Reading, MA?

For Head Chef jobs in Reading, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Reading, MA are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities near Reading, MA with the most Head Chef job openings:

Head Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Reading, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,526 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Catering Head Chef

Fireside Catering LLC

Burlington, MA • On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description

A Catering Head Chef works in both the Commissary in Burlington and weekends on the off-premise events.

As a Catering Head Chef at Fireside Catering, you will be responsible for leading a small team of cooks prepping ingredients in the commissary for high end weddings in a scratch kitchen. 


On Events: As a Catering Head Chef you will typically lead 3 or more cooks in the preparation and plating of meals according to the event timeline. Menus often include hors 'd oeuvres, first course, entree, cake cutting, dessert and late-night food for 50 to 200+ person events. 


The ideal candidate will have a background in a high-volume restaurant or catering environment, leadership experience and a strong attention to detail. 


The Perks: 

  • Flexible full or part-time scheduling. We can make the schedule work around any other obligations you may have
  • Full-time hours achieved when combining commissary prep team leadership with being an Event Head Chef on events
  • Additional compensation of $100 per shift with ability to drive a 14' to 16' box truck to events 
  • Employee dining discount - 25% off food for you and a guest at Webber Restaurant Group Restaurants 
  • Daily family meal 
  • Employee referral bonus - get paid to work with your friends! 
  • Training and opportunities for growth! 
  • comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision). 
  • Paid vacation benefit after 3 (three) months 
  • 401k with an annual match 
  • Employee Assistance Program 

The Responsibilities:

  • Catering Head Chefs will follow recipes and directions while leading your team to ensure that all unique menu items are prepared and presented consistently and to high-quality standards 
  • Work with other kitchen staff members and Front of the House staff efficiently and effectively 
  • Ensure that all food is prepared and presented in accordance with food safety and sanitation guidelines 
  • Maintain a clean and organized kitchen area, including proper storage and labeling of all food items  

The Requirements:

  • Ideal Catering Head Chefs will have experience running events for 50-200 guests
  • Must be able to lift 30 lbs. 
  • Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed 
  • Desire to mentor and develop new culinary staff 
  • Take pride in your job - We use ingredients from our own farm, The Farm at Gibbet Hill and many local vendors. 
  • Strong communication skills, ability to follow direction and ability to work in a fast-paced team environment 


The Webber Restaurant Group is an equal opportunity employer 

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