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Head Cooks Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NU3S

Cafe Head Cook _Kitchen Supervisor

NY · On-site

$24/hr

Head Cook (Chef)- Cafe (Queens, NY) NU3S is seeking an experienced Head Cook to support the pre-opening and launch of a high-volume café in Queens, NY. Pay: $24/hour Responsibilities: * Support ...

Dundee Dell

Be Seen First

Head Cook

Omaha, NE · On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

We're seeking a skilled Head Cook to lead our kitchen, mentor ... cooks, and ensure every plate that leaves the line is exceptional. What You'll Do * Lead, mentor ...

New

The Accelerated Schools

Head Cook

Los Angeles, CA

$23.22/hr

Head Cook at The Accelerated Schools Share on X Print Application Deadline 7/24/2026 11:55 PM Pacific Date Posted 7/16/2026 Contact Kevin Menjivar Number of Openings 1 Salary Pay Range $23.22 - $23 ...

New

County of Newaygo

Head Cook

White Cloud, MI

$15.57 - $17.96/hr

Description The Commission on Aging is seeking a detail-oriented, reliable Part-Time Head Cook to oversee the back-of-house logistics and culinary execution. In this hybrid role, the selected ...

Dundee Dell

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Head Cook

Omaha, NE · On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

We're seeking a skilled Head Cook to lead our kitchen, mentor ... cooks, and ensure every plate that leaves the line is exceptional. What You'll Do * Lead, mentor ...

New

WATEREE COMMUNITY ACTIONS INC

Head Cook

Sumter, SC · On-site

The Head Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks in accordance with Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines, maintaining food safety and sanitation ...

New

Bar W Guest Ranch

Assistant Head Cook

Whitefish, MT · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Head Cook Pay Range: $20-$22 At the Bar W our core focus is connection. We want our guests to have an experience not just a vacation, so we want them to connect to our staff, the people they came ...

County of Newaygo, MI

Head Cook

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15.57 - $17.96/hr

Continuous Description The Commission on Aging is seeking a detail-oriented, reliable Part-Time Head Cook to oversee the back-of-house logistics and culinary execution. In this hybrid role, the ...

Hillbillies One Stop, LLC

Head Cook

Erhard, MN · On-site

Hillbillies One Stop, LLC - Head Cook Are you passionate about creating delicious meals that bring people together? Do you have a knack for leading a team in a fast-paced kitchen environment?

RSU 12, Sheepscot Valley

Head Cook

Somerville, ME · On-site

Food Service/Head Cook Date Posted: 7/1/2026 Location: Chelsea Elementary School Date Available: August 2026 Closing Date: When Filled DESCRIPTION: RSU 12 seeks a Head Cook to oversee a kitchen that ...

Mixers

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Head Cook

Tampa, FL

Overview We're looking for a hands-on Head Cook to run our kitchen day to day -- owning the line, the menu, inventory, and ordering, while keeping food quality and consistency high. This role also ...

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How much do head cooks jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for head cooks in the United States is $18.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do head chefs make good money?

Head cooks, or head chefs, typically earn a median annual salary that varies by location and establishment, with many earning between $40,000 and $80,000. Experienced head chefs in high-end restaurants or large operations can earn higher wages, especially with additional certifications or specialized skills. Salary depends on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the establishment.

What are head cooks?

Head cooks, also known as chefs or executive chefs, are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a kitchen in restaurants, hotels, or other food service establishments. They create menus, manage kitchen staff, ensure the quality and presentation of dishes, and maintain inventory and food safety standards. Head cooks also supervise food preparation, train new employees, and may be involved in budgeting and ordering supplies. Their leadership is crucial to the smooth and efficient functioning of the kitchen.

What is the difference between Head Cooks vs Line Cooks?

AspectHead CooksLine Cooks
CredentialsHigh school diploma, culinary training, experienceHigh school diploma, culinary training often preferred
Work EnvironmentSupervisory role in restaurants, hotels, institutionsKitchen station work in restaurants, hotels, institutions
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in restaurants, catering, hospitalityFound in similar settings, often reporting to Head Cooks
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in kitchensLearning about specific kitchen station tasks

Head Cooks oversee kitchen operations, manage staff, and ensure food quality, while Line Cooks focus on preparing dishes at specific stations. Head Cooks have more supervisory responsibilities, whereas Line Cooks specialize in cooking tasks. Both roles are essential in culinary settings, but they differ in scope and leadership level.

What do head cooks do?

Head cooks oversee kitchen operations, manage staff, plan menus, ensure food quality and safety, and control inventory and costs. They often coordinate with other kitchen staff and may hold certifications such as ServSafe to meet health standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head Cook, you need advanced culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and experience in kitchen management, often supported by formal culinary training or certification. Proficiency with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and compliance with health regulations is crucial. Leadership, time management, and strong communication skills are essential for motivating staff and ensuring smooth kitchen operations. These skills and qualities are vital to consistently deliver high-quality dishes, maintain safety standards, and efficiently manage a busy kitchen environment.

What are some common challenges Head Cooks face when managing a kitchen team?

Head Cooks often face the challenge of balancing kitchen efficiency with maintaining high food quality standards. They must manage diverse teams, resolve conflicts, and ensure clear communication during busy service periods. Additionally, they are responsible for inventory control and adapting to last-minute changes, such as staff shortages or unexpected menu adjustments. Building strong leadership and organizational skills is key to overcoming these challenges and fostering a productive, positive kitchen environment.

How much do chefs and head cooks make?

Head cooks and chefs typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $60,000, though salaries can vary based on experience, location, and establishment size. Executive head cooks with specialized skills or working in high-end restaurants may earn higher salaries, often exceeding $70,000 annually.

How much does a chief cook make?

A head cook's average salary varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $30,000 to $60,000 annually. Experienced head cooks working in high-end establishments or in regions with a higher cost of living can earn more, and leadership skills are important for higher pay.
What cities are hiring for Head Cooks jobs? Cities with the most Head Cooks job openings:
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What states have the most Head Cooks jobs? States with the most job openings for Head Cooks jobs include:
Head Cooks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Cooks job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $38,058 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Cafe Head Cook _Kitchen Supervisor

NU3S

NY • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Head Cook (Chef)- Cafe (Queens, NY)
NU3S is seeking an experienced Head Cook to support the pre-opening and launch of a high-volume café in Queens, NY.
Pay: $24/hour
Responsibilities:
  • Support kitchen setup, menu testing, and pre-opening prep
  • Prepare food to recipe and quality standards
  • Supervise a staff of 4
  • Lead and train kitchen staff in a fast-paced environment
  • Oversee food quality, kitchen operations, and workflow
  • Manage inventory and minimize waste
  • Ensure food safety, sanitation, and compliance
  • Maintain a clean, organized kitchen

Qualifications:
  • Head Chef, Lead Cook, or Kitchen Manager experience
  • QSR, café, and/or bakery background
  • ServSafe certification required
  • High-volume kitchen experience preferred
  • Strong leadership and organization
  • Weekend and holiday availability

About NU3S:
NU3S is a new concept launching in Queens, NY, combining a Market Café, valet-operated touchless car wash, and express auto care center. Located corner of Farmers Blvd and Merrick Blvd.
NU3S is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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