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Head Kitchen Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Sunflower Chef Catering

$15 - $20/hr

You'll work alongside our Head Chef preparing food, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen, and helping execute catered events throughout the area. We work hard, take pride in what we create, and ...

New

Sunflower Chef Catering

Chef

Des Moines, IA

$15 - $20/hr

You'll work alongside our Head Chef preparing food, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen, and helping execute catered events throughout the area. We work hard, take pride in what we create, and ...

New

Kinseth Hospitality

Traveling Chef

Coralville, IA · On-site

Discounts at all Kinseth Hotel Corporation hotels and restaurants TRAVELING CHEFS needed to travel ... Supervises kitchen personnel to ensure cleanliness of kitchen and equipment is within required ...

Kinseth Hospitality

Traveling Chef

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

Discounts at all Kinseth Hotel Corporation hotels and restaurants TRAVELING CHEFS needed to travel ... Supervises kitchen personnel to ensure cleanliness of kitchen and equipment is within required ...

Marriott

Traveling Chef

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

Discounts at all Kinseth Hotel Corporation hotels and restaurants TRAVELING CHEFS needed to travel ... Supervises kitchen personnel to ensure cleanliness of kitchen and equipment is within required ...

Kinseth Hotel Corporation

Traveling Chef

Coralville, IA · On-site

Discounts at all Kinseth Hotel Corporation hotels and restaurants TRAVELING CHEFS needed to travel ... Supervises kitchen personnel to ensure cleanliness of kitchen and equipment is within required ...

Upper Crust Food Service

Student Steward

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Wash kitchen utensils, equipment and dishes using a dishwasher or by hand. * Put away clean dishes ... May perform a variety of food preparation duties as directed by the Head Chef and/or Sous Chef such ...

Upper Crust Food Service

Student Steward

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Wash kitchen utensils, equipment and dishes using a dishwasher or by hand. * Put away clean dishes ... May perform a variety of food preparation duties as directed by the Head Chef and/or Sous Chef such ...

Upper Crust Food Service

Student Utility

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Head Chefs are responsible for creating, planning, and executing all fresh, from scratch weekly ... Wash kitchen utensils, equipment and dishes. * Ensure the kitchen operates in a timely manner

Stoney Creek Hospitality Corporation

Line Cook

Moravia, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

You will work in a fast-paced kitchen environment, ensuring that all dishes are prepared to the highest quality and presentation standards. REPORTS TO AND IS SERVED BY: Head Chef & Restaurant Manager ...

HyVee

Market Grille Department Manager

Dubuque, IA · On-site

Works with chefs for efficient provisioning and purchasing of supplies. * Projects and controls ... a level head, and delegate many kitchen tasks simultaneously * Maintains impeccable personal ...

All JobsHead Kitchen Chef JobsHead Kitchen Chef Jobs in Iowa

Head Kitchen Chef information

What does a head kitchen chef do?

A Head Kitchen Chef, also known as an Executive Chef, is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations in a restaurant or food establishment. Their duties include creating menus, managing kitchen staff, ensuring food quality and safety standards, and controlling inventory and costs. They also train and supervise cooks, coordinate food preparation, and often work closely with restaurant management to provide an excellent dining experience. In addition, the Head Kitchen Chef is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and ensuring that the kitchen complies with health regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a head kitchen chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head Kitchen Chef, you need advanced culinary skills, strong food safety knowledge, and several years of kitchen management experience, often supported by formal culinary training. Expertise in menu planning, inventory management systems, and certifications such as ServSafe are typically required. Leadership, creativity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for leading teams and delivering exceptional dining experiences. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, high food quality, and the ability to inspire and manage a culinary team in a demanding environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a head kitchen chef, and how can they be managed effectively?

As a Head Kitchen Chef, balancing the demands of managing a diverse team, maintaining consistency in food quality, and ensuring efficient kitchen operations are common challenges. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to adapt quickly during busy service hours are essential for overcoming these hurdles. Additionally, fostering a positive work environment and investing in training can help minimize turnover and keep the kitchen running smoothly.

What is the difference between Head Kitchen Chef vs Sous Chef?

AspectHead Kitchen ChefSous Chef
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire kitchen operations, menu planning, staff managementAssists head chef, supervises kitchen staff, prepares dishes
CredentialsCulinary degree, extensive experience, leadership skillsCulinary training, experience in kitchen roles
Work EnvironmentKitchen management, high-pressure, leadership roleKitchen floor, hands-on cooking, supervisory duties

The Head Kitchen Chef is responsible for overall kitchen management and menu creation, while the Sous Chef supports the head chef and handles daily kitchen operations. Both roles require culinary skills, but the head chef focuses more on leadership and planning, whereas the sous chef is more involved in hands-on cooking and supervision.

How much do head kitchen chefs get paid?

Head kitchen chefs typically earn between $45,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on the location, restaurant size, and experience. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of the establishment and additional responsibilities such as menu planning and staff management.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Head Kitchen Chef jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Head Kitchen Chef job openings:

Head Kitchen Chef jobs near you

Chef

On-site

Sunflower Chef Catering
See more jobs at Sunflower Chef Cateringexternal

$15 - $20/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Join an award-winning Des Moines catering company known for exceptional food, presentation, and customer service. Since 2014, we’ve maintained 5-star ratings across Google, Yelp, and Facebook and have been voted Best Caterer in Des Moines for five consecutive years through the Des Moines People’s Choice Awards.

Notable clients we have are being the official caterer for the Iowa Wild hockey team, Microsoft, ITA Group, Delta Dental, Net Jets, many more and growing!

We’re looking for a dependable, positive Catering Chef to join our growing team. You’ll work alongside our Head Chef preparing food, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen, and helping execute catered events throughout the area.

We work hard, take pride in what we create, and want every team member to feel appreciated and valued while working in a fun, creative, and positive environment.

What You’ll Do

  • Prepare and cook menu items according to recipes and food safety standards

  • Package, store, and organize food for upcoming events

  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen

  • Assist with receiving or picking up food and supplies as needed

  • Transport food and equipment to catered events

  • Set up food stations, tables, and event equipment

  • Professionally serve and interact with guests

  • Assist with breakdown and cleanup after events

What We’re Looking For

  • Previous kitchen, restaurant, or catering experience

  • Basic cooking and food safety knowledge

  • ServSafe certification or ability to obtain within 90 days

  • Valid driver’s license

  • Dependable with strong teamwork and communication skills

  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

  • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as events require

  • Good teamwork and communication skills.

Compensation & Schedule

  • $15–$20/hour , based on experience

  • Additional gratuity opportunities from catered events

  • Average of 32+ hours per week

  • Growing local company with plans for a new location in 2027

If you enjoy creating great food, working with a close-knit team, and being part of memorable events, we’d love to hear from you.

Employment Type: Full Time
Salary: $15 - $20 Hourly
Bonus/Commission: Yes

Apply