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Head Chef Jobs in Union, ME (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Paradigm Treatment Centers and Ridge RTC are seeking a skilled and dependable Chef to support our residential treatment programs. This role is responsible for planning, preparing, and ...

Breakfast Line Cook

Rockport, ME · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Follows recipes, portion controls, and presentation specifications as set by the chef or restaurant * Restocks all items as needed throughout the shift and is responsible for taking inventory after ...

Breakfast Line Cook

Rockport, ME

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Follows recipes, portion controls, and presentation specifications as set by the chef or restaurant * Restocks all items as needed throughout the shift and is responsible for taking inventory after ...

Breakfast Line Cook

Rockport, ME · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Follows recipes, portion controls, and presentation specifications as set by the chef or restaurant * Restocks all items as needed throughout the shift and is responsible for taking inventory after ...

Breakfast Line Cook

Rockport, ME

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Follows recipes, portion controls, and presentation specifications as set by the chef or restaurant * Restocks all items as needed throughout the shift and is responsible for taking inventory after ...

If your goal is to become a chef, this is a great place to start. As a Line Cook your primary focus will be working under chef and restaurant management team on food preparation, and operational ...

If your goal is to become a chef, this is a great place to start. As a Line Cook your primary focus will be working under chef and restaurant management team on food preparation, and operational ...

Head Chef information

See Union, ME salary details

$30.2K

$67.8K

$100.6K

How much do head chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for head chef in Union, ME is $67,786.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $79,400.00 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 Union, ME?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Union, ME are:

What are popular job titles related to Head Chef jobs in Union, ME?

For Head Chef jobs in Union, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Union, ME are hiring for Head Chef jobs?

Cities near Union, ME with the most Head Chef job openings:

Infographic showing various Head Chef job openings in Union, ME as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,786 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Chef - Residential Treatment

The Ridge RTC

South China, ME

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Paradigm Treatment Centers and Ridge RTC are seeking a skilled and dependable Chef to support our residential treatment programs. This role is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious, high-quality meals that support the physical and emotional well-being of clients in treatment. The ideal candidate understands the importance of food in recovery, maintains a calm and professional presence, and can work effectively within a structured healthcare environment.

Responsibilities
  • Plan and prepare daily meals for residential clients and staff, ensuring consistency, quality, and nutritional balance.
  • Develop menus that accommodate dietary needs, allergies, and medical or cultural restrictions.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen in compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Order, receive, and properly store food and kitchen supplies.
  • Monitor food inventory and manage costs to stay within budget guidelines.
  • Collaborate with clinical and operations teams to support client needs and program schedules.
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection control protocols.
  • Maintain professionalism and appropriate boundaries while interacting with clients.
  • Assist with special events, holidays, or therapeutic programming as needed.
Qualifications
  • Prior experience as a Chef or Cook in a residential, healthcare, hospitality, or institutional setting preferred.
  • Knowledge of food safety standards and proper kitchen sanitation practices.
  • Ability to prepare meals for larger groups while maintaining quality and consistency.
  • Experience accommodating dietary restrictions (e.g., allergies, vegetarian/vegan, medical diets).
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently.
  • Comfortable working in a behavioral health or residential treatment environment.
  • Food handler certification required (or willingness to obtain).