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Head Chef Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Line Cook / Kitchen Team

Springfield, MO ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

We offer great restaurant culinary careers for line cooks (concinero / cocinera) who have back of house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant ...

Line Cook / Kitchen Team

Nixa, MO ยท On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

We offer great restaurant culinary careers for line cooks (concinero / cocinera) who have back of house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant ...

Line Cook / Kitchen Team

Nixa, MO ยท On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

We offer great restaurant culinary careers for line cooks (concinero / cocinera) who have back of house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant ...

Line Cook / Kitchen Team

Nixa, MO ยท On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

We offer great restaurant culinary careers for line cooks (concinero / cocinera) who have back of house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant ...

Line Cook / Kitchen Team

Springfield, MO ยท On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

We offer great restaurant culinary careers for line cooks (concinero / cocinera) who have back of house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant ...

Line Cook / Kitchen Team

Springfield, MO ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

We offer great restaurant culinary careers for line cooks (concinero / cocinera) who have back of house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant ...

Kitchen

Springfield, MO ยท On-site

Collaboration with chefs, servers, and management is key to maintaining a well-organized and productive kitchen. Ultimately, this role contributes directly to customer satisfaction by ensuring timely ...

Showing results 21-29

Head Chef information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$25.9K

$58.2K

$86.4K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Springfield, MO is $58,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $68,200.00 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 Springfield, MO?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in Springfield, MO?

For Head Chef jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Head Chef jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Head Chef jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Head Chef job openings:

Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,205 per year, or $28 per hour.

Line Cook / Kitchen Team

Apple Centra

Springfield, MO โ€ข On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar serves as America's kitchen table, offering guests a lively dining experience that combines simple, craveable American fare with classic drinks and local drafts. Today, with over 1,700 locations and counting, what was once a popular neighborhood restaurant has grown to become one of the world's largest casual dining brands.
Work in a friendly, fast-paced environment where real friends and real connections are made!
Now Hiring Full Time & Part Time:
  • COOKS / KITCHEN TEAM MEMBERS

Requirement:
  • All Cooks must be 18 years of age, or older.
  • Previous Cook / Kitchen / Professional Culinary experience strongly preferred
  • Must be eligible to work in the US

If you have a commitment to creating the best quality food for our guests and the drive to succeed, we want to hear from you!
Wondering what's in it for you? We can offer you:
  • Competitive Wages
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Opportunities for Advancement
  • Great team-oriented work atmosphere & much more!

We are a Franchisee of Applebee's and an Equal Opportunity / Verify Employer.
Applebee's is a well established, full service restaurant concept that has growth opportunities for team members in a well established restaurnat environment. Grow your career with us.
We offer great restaurant culinary careers for line cooks (concinero / cocinera) who have back of house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment. We're also looking for Jefe / Jefa who have back of house preparation / food prep / production experience.
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