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Head Chef Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Mamma G's

sous chef

Rochester, NY

$1.4K/wk

Main Responsibilities of a Sous Chef: * Assist the Head Chef in managing the kitchen operations * Prepare and cook food according to recipes and quality standards * Supervise and train kitchen staff

Gorbel

Banquet Sous Chef

Victor, NY · On-site

$25/hr

Assisting the Head Banquet Chef and the Executive Chef in managing the kitchen operations. * Ensuring food quality, and maintaining standards of cleanliness and safety. * Menu planning and ...

Chef's Catering

Be Seen First

Catering Chef

Spencerport, NY · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... Chef's" procedures and the way we do things ● Strict cleanliness and sanitation as well as organization ● Capable of managing themselves as well as others if asked to(on-site) ● Putting away ...

Wegmans Food Markets

Sous Chef

Rochester, NY · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

We are seeking an experienced and passionate sous chef with a strong culinary background to join our team. In this role, you will assist the chef in creating an authentic yet innovative dining ...

Troon

Sous Chef

Victor, NY · On-site

$80K/yr

Salary: $80,000 per year Key Responsibilities of the Sous Chef: * Oversees and manages food preparation for a specific area of the kitchen. Supervises and ensures production of consistently high ...

Troon Golf

Sous Chef

Victor, NY · On-site

$80K/yr

Salary: $80,000 per year Key Responsibilities of the Sous Chef: * Oversees and manages food preparation for a specific area of the kitchen. Supervises and ensures production of consistently high ...

Friendly Senior Living

Executive Chef

Rochester, NY

$65K - $75K/yr

We're looking for an Executive Chef who shares our commitment to hospitality, quality, and creating meaningful experiences. In this role, you'll lead a talented culinary team, influence the dining ...

Friendly Senior Living

Executive Chef

Rochester, NY · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

We're looking for an Executive Chef who shares our commitment to hospitality, quality, and creating meaningful experiences. In this role, you'll lead a talented culinary team, influence the dining ...

SilverCrest Inc.

Chef

Rochester, NY

$19 - $21/hr

Start a new career as a Chef at Shorewood Senior Campus, an Assisted Living Community! Make a difference in someone's life every day. If you have a passion for serving and a desire to grow, we'd love ...

Spa at the Del Monte

Sous Chef

Pittsford, NY

$20/hr

Job Responsibilities As a Sous Chef , you will directly supervise associates in the Kitchen and carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable ...

mystanns

Sous Chef (Webster Campus)

Webster, NY · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Sous Chef (Webster Campus) Join us in Caring for the Most Important People on Earth. We reward hard-working, caring professionals with competitive pay, great benefits and career growth opportunities.

Spa at the Del Monte

Sous Chef

Pittsford, NY · On-site

$20/hr

Job Responsibilities As a Sous Chef , you will directly supervise associates in the Kitchen and carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable ...

DelMonte Hotel Group

Sous Chef

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Job Responsibilities As a Sous Chef , you will directly supervise associates in the Kitchen and carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable ...

DelMonte Hotel Group

Sous Chef

Pittsford, NY · On-site

$20/hr

Job Responsibilities As a Sous Chef , you will directly supervise associates in the Kitchen and carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable ...

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All JobsHead Chef JobsHead Chef Jobs in Rochester, NY

Head Chef information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$28.1K

$63.1K

$93.7K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Rochester, NY is $63,141.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $74,000.00 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.
More about Head Chef jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in Rochester, NY? For Head Chef jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Chef jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Head Chef jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Head Chef jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Head Chef job openings:
Head Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,141 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Head Chef/kitchen manager

McColley's Irish Pub

Spencerport, NY • On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

About the Role:
Join McColley's Irish Pub as our Head Chef/Kitchen Manager, where you'll lead a passionate culinary team in crafting authentic Irish dishes. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your culinary skills and creativity while managing a vibrant kitchen environment. Looking for someone that is looking for a career and is a motivated, experienced, reliable leader. Full time position.  45-50 hours a week. Responsibilities include: cooking on the line on a daily basis, food ordering, preparing specials and executing the already established menu, being creative and frugal, keeping menu cost and labor costs in check, leading your team and being a positive leader. Maintaining and cleaning the kitchen. Must be able to handle pressure and multi task well.  Salary to commensurate with experience. Serious inquiries only. We are looking for someone with sit down, full restaurant experience. 401K after time, paid vacation after a year.

Responsibilities:
  • Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food quality and safety.
  • Create and update the menu with seasonal dishes and specials that reflect Irish cuisine.
  • Manage kitchen staff, including hiring, training, and performance evaluations.
  • Maintain inventory, ordering supplies, and controlling food costs effectively.
  • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations in the kitchen.
  • Collaborate with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service and customer satisfaction.
  • Develop and implement kitchen policies and procedures to enhance efficiency.
  • Foster a positive and collaborative kitchen culture that encourages creativity and teamwork.
Requirements:
  • Proven experience as a Head Chef or Kitchen Manager in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
  • Strong knowledge of culinary techniques and food safety regulations.
  • Ability to create innovative and flavorful dishes with a focus on Irish cuisine.
  • Excellent leadership and team management skills.
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends.
  • Culinary degree or equivalent experience preferred.
  • Passion for food and a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences.
About Us:
McColley's Irish Pub has been a beloved staple in Spencerport, NY, for over a decade, known for its warm atmosphere and authentic Irish fare. Our customers love the friendly service and vibrant community, while our employees appreciate the supportive work environment and opportunities for growth.