ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Head Chef Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

FirstService Residential Careers

Head Chef

CA · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

The Head Chef works in compliance with FirstService standards and authentically delivering the Bodega Harbour HOA a positive Lifestyle environment. Compensation: $75,000 - 110,000 FirstService ...

FirstService Residential

Head Chef

Bodega Bay, CA · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

The Head Chef works in compliance with FirstService standards and authentically delivering the Bodega Harbour HOA a positive Lifestyle environment. Compensation: $75,000 - 110,000 FirstService ...

Capo 29

Chef de Cuisine

Saint Helena, CA

$81K - $111K/yr

We are seeking a Head Chef to lead our kitchen team in St. Helena, California. The ideal candidate will uphold our rigorous standards of culinary technique while navigating the regional demands of ...

Capo 29

Chef de Cuisine

Saint Helena, CA

$100K - $150K/yr

We are seeking a Head Chef to lead our kitchen team in St. Helena, California. The ideal candidate will uphold our rigorous standards of culinary technique while navigating the regional demands of ...

Constellation Brands

Assistant, Sous Chef

Napa, CA · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

Operationally, the Assistant Sous Chef helps manage inventory and stock rotation, works with the Sous Chef and Head Chef on ordering and sourcing of ingredients, and ensures that all supplies are ...

Constellation Brands

Assistant, Sous Chef

Oakville, CA

$57K - $77K/yr

Operationally, the Assistant Sous Chef helps manage inventory and stock rotation, works with the Sous Chef and Head Chef on ordering and sourcing of ingredients, and ensures that all supplies are ...

Constellation Brands, Inc.

Assistant, Sous Chef

Oakville, CA · On-site

$57K - $77K/yr

Operationally, the Assistant Sous Chef helps manage inventory and stock rotation, works with the Sous Chef and Head Chef on ordering and sourcing of ingredients, and ensures that all supplies are ...

Constellation Brands

Assistant, Sous Chef

Napa, CA · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

Operationally, the Assistant Sous Chef helps manage inventory and stock rotation, works with the Sous Chef and Head Chef on ordering and sourcing of ingredients, and ensures that all supplies are ...

Graton Resort & Casino

QSR SOUS CHEF

Rohnert Park, CA

$55K - $74K/yr

Working closely with the QSR Head Chef, and culinary team, the QSR Sous Chef supervisesfood production, trains and develops team members, monitors inventory and production levels, andensures all menu ...

Graton Resort & Casino

QSR SOUS CHEF

Rohnert Park, CA · On-site

$55K - $74K/yr

Working closely with the QSR Head Chef, and culinary team, the QSR Sous Chef supervises food production, trains and develops team members, monitors inventory and production levels, and ensures all ...

Alliance Redwoods

Chef

Occidental, CA

$20 - $30/hr

Commis Chef Our camp and conference grounds is seeking a dependable, team-oriented Commis Chef to join our kitchen staff in serving guests through food, hospitality, and community. This position ...

Alliance Redwoods

Chef

Occidental, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Commis Chef Our camp and conference grounds is seeking a dependable, team-oriented Commis Chef to join our kitchen staff in serving guests through food, hospitality, and community. This position ...

Hestan Napa

Sous Chef

Napa, CA

$56K - $76K/yr

Led by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Mark Dommen, Hestan Napa serves seasonal California cuisine built on locally sourced ingredients, paired with estate wines from Hestan Vineyards. Every dish is ...

Hestan Napa

Sous Chef

Napa, CA

$70K - $80K/yr

Led by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Mark Dommen, Hestan Napa serves seasonal California cuisine built on locally sourced ingredients, paired with estate wines from Hestan Vineyards. Every dish is ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHead Chef JobsHead Chef Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Head Chef information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$31.2K

$70K

$103.9K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Santa Rosa, CA is $69,967.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,700.00 and $82,000.00 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 Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Head Chef jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Chef jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Head Chef jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Head Chef jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Head Chef job openings:
Head Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,967 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

Head Chef

FirstService Residential Careers

CA • On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description
Job Overview:
The Bodega Harbour Head Chef is responsible for the overall leadership and operation of the kitchen, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, service, sanitation, and fiscal responsibility. This role plays a key part in enhancing the Bodega Harbour HOA lifestyle by delivering exceptional culinary experiences that support resident satisfaction, community engagement, and brand culture.
The Head Chef works in compliance with FirstService standards and authentically delivering the Bodega Harbour HOA a positive Lifestyle environment.
Compensation: $75,000 - 110,000
FirstService Residential will compensate the successful candidate in accordance with the posted range. The salary or wage paid to the successful candidate will be commensurate with experience, education, and specific job responsibilities. For positions designated at a client's property, the salary or wage will also be premised upon the client's directive. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.
Key Responsibilities
Menu Development & Food Quality
  • Plan menus and assist with menu pricing, taking into account resident preferences, marketing conditions, seasonal demand, holidays, food costs, and popularity of dishes.
  • Develop, test, and standardize recipes and preparation techniques to ensure consistent quality, appealing presentation, and effective portion control.
  • Cook or directly supervise the preparation of menu items requiring advanced culinary skill.
  • Evaluate raw food products and monitor the quality of prepared foods to ensure established standards are consistently met.

Kitchen Operations & Sanitation
  • Schedule, coordinate, and supervise the work of cooks and other kitchen staff to ensure efficient, economical, and technically correct food production.
  • Visually inspect all kitchen and work areas to ensure cleanliness, organization, and compliance with sanitation standards at all times.
  • Establish operational controls and monitor kitchen activities to minimize waste, loss, and theft.
  • Approve requisitions for food, beverages, and kitchen supplies as necessary to support operations.
  • Plan and manage the employee meal program.

Staff Leadership & Development
  • Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate kitchen staff, including performance management, compensation recommendations, discipline, and termination as necessary.
  • Train food preparation employees on food safety, sanitation, accident prevention, and proper kitchen procedures.
  • Foster a positive, respectful, and motivating work environment that supports staff engagement and retention.
  • Communicate effectively with kitchen staff, management, and residents to ensure smooth daily operations.

Financial Management & Reporting
  • Prepare budget-related data, including projections for annual food and labor costs.
  • Monitor financial performance and take corrective action as needed to meet established budgetary and operational goals.
  • Ensure accurate and timely submission of all required operational, financial, and budgetary reports.

Collaboration & Special Events
  • Collaborate with the Food & Beverage team on food production planning for special events, resident functions, and community programs.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) to support operational excellence and resident satisfaction.

Compliance & Professional Development
  • Ensure compliance with all company policies and applicable local, state, and federal health, safety, and labor regulations.
  • Maintain knowledge of current and emerging industry trends through continuing education, trade publications, and professional associations.

Culture & Community Engagement
  • Promote a workplace culture that supports an "I Love My Job" environment and enhances the Bodega Harbour HOA lifestyle.
  • Contribute positively to the HOA's brand culture, community values, and overall resident experience.

Qualifications & Requirements
  • Demonstrated leadership ability with a proven track record of developing teams and implementing high food quality and service standards.
  • College degree preferred.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of culinary experience, including supervisory and/or management responsibility; experience in a golf, club, or hospitality environment preferred.
  • Current state food safety certification and/or ServSafe certification.
  • Proven experience in budget development, fiscal management, strategic planning, and staff supervision.
  • Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to analyze and solve problems; manage multiple priorities under pressure with minimal supervision; and work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays as required.
  • Consistently positive attitude with a professional demeanor and appearance.
  • Ability to perform mathematical calculations involving fractions, decimals, and percentages.
  • Ability to retrieve, read, and interpret information from technical and operational resources.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment
The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, push, pull, grasp, bend, kneel, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods, up to five (5) hours at a time.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally, up to 25 pounds frequently, and up to 20 pounds continuously.
  • Ability to use hands and fingers for handling, feeling, slicing, chopping, and operating kitchen equipment and tools.
  • Visual acuity sufficient to safely prepare food, read recipes, labels, schedules, and kitchen documentation.

Work Environment
  • Work is performed primarily in a kitchen environment with exposure to heat, steam, noise, sharp instruments, and hot surfaces.
  • Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts and conditions that may include wet or slippery floors.
  • Schedule may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays based on operational needs.

What We Offer:
  • Medical, dental, and vision plans (full time and those working 30+ hours)
  • Part time 20+ hours qualify for dental and vision
  • 401K match
  • Time off including vacation, sick, and company paid holidays
  • Pet insurance available
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Legal services
  • Free emotional wellbeing and daily life assistance support for all associates
  • Domestic partner coverage
  • Health savings account
  • Flexible spending account

About Us:
FirstService Residential transforms the property management landscape by providing professional association management services to over 9,000 residential communities across the United States and Canada.
Our dedication to associate satisfaction and growth is recognized by our Great Place to Work certification, exemplifying our commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Our 19,000 associates can count on competitive salaries, top-tier medical, dental, and retirement benefits, career training, and support for continued professional development.
Experience exceptional service with a fulfilling career in property management with FirstService Residential.
To learn more about our company and culture, please visit www.fsresidential.com/california
Disclaimer
The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. This is not an all-inclusive job description; therefore, management has the right to assign or reassign schedules, duties, and responsibilities to this job at any time.
FirstService Residential is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, parental status, ancestry, disability, gender identity, veteran status, genetic information, other distinguishing characteristics of diversity and inclusion, or any other protected status.
Qualified applicants with arrest and/or conviction records will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with federal and state laws, as well as applicable local ordinances. All offers of employment with FirstService Residential are contingent upon a satisfactory background check.
Automated Employment Decision Tool (AEDT) Usage: We may utilize an Automated Employment Decision Tool (AEDT) in connection with the assessment or evaluation of candidates. The AEDT is designed to assist in objectively evaluating candidate qualifications based on specific job-related characteristics.
Job Qualifications and Characteristics Assessed: The AEDT evaluates candidates based on job qualifications and characteristics pertinent to the role, including skills, experience, and competencies relevant to the position requirements. These qualifications are determined by the unique needs of each role within our company.
Alternative Selection Process or Reasonable Accommodations: Candidates who require an alternative selection process or a "reasonable accommodation," as defined under applicable disability laws, may make a request through our designated contact channel national_recruiting@fsresidential.com .
Requesting Information About the AEDT - NYC Local Law 144: Candidates who reside in New York City and are subject to NYC Local Law 144 may request information about the AEDT, including details on the type of data collected, the sources of such data, and our data retention policies. To submit a request, please contact us at national_recruiting@fsresidential.com ; we will respond in accordance with Local Law 144, within 30 days.

Apply