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Head Chef Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Springfield, IL · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, want to really cook? Bella Milano is accepting applications from highly-energetic, take charge individuals who want an opportunity to utilize their skills ...

Head Chef information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$28.2K

$63.4K

$94.2K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Springfield, IL is $63,425.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,600.00 and $74,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

Is a head chef a stressful job?

A head chef role is often considered stressful due to high-pressure environments, long hours, and the need to manage kitchen staff and ensure food quality. The job requires strong organizational skills, resilience, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Stress levels can vary depending on the establishment's size and workload.

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 most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in Springfield, IL? For Head Chef jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Chef jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Head Chef jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Head Chef jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Head Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,425 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Sous Chef

Bella Milano

Springfield, IL • On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, want to really cook? Bella Milano is accepting applications from highly-energetic, take charge individuals who want an opportunity to utilize their skills while continuing to learn and grow in a thriving upscale, full service restaurant environment! Bella Milano offers a unique, fine casual cuisine in a contemporary yet relaxed atmosphere with many exciting menu selections.


Apply now if you think you have what it takes to be part of our growing team.


Goals:

-Food Quality - maintain highest level of food quality

-Sanitation - Ensure kitchen is clean at all times and able to pass Inspections from Health Inspectors and Executive Team

-Labor Cost - Manage kitchen labor to obtain goals, and review practices to ensure most efficient use of labor dollars

-Food Cost - Ensure kitchen staff is using proper devices and measurements for all food service related items. Manage kitchen staff to achieve food cost goals

-Training - all kitchen staff must be fully trained at their station to follow recipe and portioning guidelines

-Evaluate food products to ensure that quality standards are being consistently attained.

-Provide professional development of kitchen staff

-Menu development - keep current in menu trends and submit items as requested for menu changes


Responsibilities:

-Scheduling and coordination of kitchen staff

-Staff for maximum productivity and high standards of quality

-Control labor costs to achieve maximum profitability

-Establish controls to minimize food and supply, waste and theft

-Train employees on best practices regarding safety, sanitation and accident prevention

-Support Safe work habits and a safe working environment at all times

-Consult with GM/AGM regarding menus and offerings for special events

-Cooks or directly supervise items that require skillful preparation

-Evaluate products on quality and price

-Provide communication to Director of Store Operations on policies and procedures

-Establish and maintain a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule for entire kitchen and equipment

-Ensures kitchen managers are achieving their goals and following their responsibilities

-Interview, select, train, supervise, counsel and discipline all employees in Kitchen

-Ensure positive attitudes and professionalism from all staff

-Ensure all kitchen employees adhere to uniform, grooming and appearance standards

-Interact positively with all restaurant staff and guests to promote a team effort and maintain a positive and professional work environment

-Produce a high volume of work in a timely manner, that is accurate, complete and of high quality

-Come to work on-time and regularly

-Be available for phone calls 24/7

-Ability to work a varying schedule to include mornings, days, evenings, holidays and extended hours

-Ability to type and use e-mail and other technologies as assigned

-Ability to write and cost out recipes

-Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.

-Proficient in the following restaurant functions: food planning and preparation, purchasing, sanitation, security, company policies and procedures, personnel management, recordkeeping, recipe development, and preparation of reports

-Perform other duties as directed


Compensation and Benefits:

- Salary based on previous work experience and knowledge

- Monthly Bonuses with attainable goals

- Yearly Bonus where you can earn up to 10% of your salary as a bonus

- Vacation - immediately start accruing vacation days

- Health Insurance - competitive plans, we pay 50% of your cost

- Total Compensation including bonus ranges $45,000 to $55,000 based on experience and knowledge


Physical Requirements:

-Ability to speak and hear

-Close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus

-Constant standing with some walking

-Be able to work in a standing position for long periods of time (up to 8 hours)

-Be able to reach, bend, stoop and frequently lift up to 35 pounds and occasionally lift/move 50 pounds

-Continual use of manual dexterity and gross motor skills with frequent use of bi-manual dexterity and fine motor skills


Communication:

-Monthly Store Manager meetings

-E-mail

-Phone

-Google Calendar


Licenses, Certificates, Insurance:

-Food Sanitation License

-Drivers License

-Auto Insurance


COVID-19 considerations:

Bella Milano follows all CDC guidelines included but not limited to daily health and temperature screenings of all employees.

Bella Milano is contemporary Italian with old world flavor. Join us for a beautiful meal. We feature a full bar, private rooms, a patio, and offer catering.

Education:no requirementsEmployment Type: FULL_TIME