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Head Kitchen Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Benihana - San Diego

Line Cook

San Diego, CA

$17 - $19/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana - Santa Monica

Line Cook

Santa Monica, CA

$18 - $22/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana - NY West

Line Cook

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana - NY West

Line Cook

Manhattan, NY

$16 - $19/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

RA Sushi - Plantation

Line Cook

Fort Lauderdale, FL

$16 - $20/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

RA Sushi

Line Cook

Houston, TX · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana - Orlando II

Line Cook

Orlando, FL · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

RA Sushi - Houston II

Line Cook

Houston, TX · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana - Carlsbad

Line Cook

Carlsbad, CA

$17 - $19/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana

Line Cook

Torrance, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana

Line Cook

Temecula, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

RA Sushi - Time Square

Line Cook

Manhattan, NY

$16 - $21/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana - San Mateo

Line Cook

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.50/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

RA Sushi

Line Cook

Plantation, FL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

RA Sushi - Houston II

Line Cook

Houston, TX

$15 - $20/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana - Concord

Line Cook

Concord, CA

$20/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana

Line Cook

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

RA Sushi - Houston

Line Cook

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

RA Sushi

Line Cook

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

Benihana

Line Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories. * Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager. * Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the ...

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All JobsHead Kitchen Chef Jobs

Head Kitchen Chef information

See salary details

$28.5K

$64K

$95K

How much do head kitchen chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for head kitchen chef in the United States is $63,994.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 does a head chef do in a kitchen?

A head chef, also known as executive chef, is responsible for overseeing the entire kitchen operation, including menu planning, managing kitchen staff, ensuring food quality and safety, and controlling costs. They coordinate kitchen activities, train staff, and ensure that dishes are prepared efficiently and to standard, often using kitchen management tools and adhering to health regulations.

What is the highest salary for a head chef?

The highest salaries for a head kitchen chef can exceed $80,000 to $100,000 annually, especially in high-end restaurants or luxury hotels. Factors such as experience, location, restaurant size, and reputation influence earning potential, and some executive chefs may earn bonuses or profit sharing in addition to base pay.

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.

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.

How much does a head chef's salary?

A head kitchen chef's salary varies depending on location, experience, and establishment size, but typically ranges from $45,000 to $80,000 annually. In high-end restaurants or large hotels, salaries can exceed $100,000, especially with advanced culinary skills and management experience.

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.

How much should a head chef get paid?

The average salary for a head kitchen chef typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on the location, restaurant size, and experience. Experienced head chefs with advanced culinary skills and management responsibilities may earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses or benefits.
What cities are hiring for Head Kitchen Chef jobs? Cities with the most Head Kitchen Chef job openings:
What states have the most Head Kitchen Chef jobs? States with the most job openings for Head Kitchen Chef jobs include:
Head Kitchen Chef jobs near you

Line Cook

Benihana - San Diego

San Diego, CA

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

At Benihana, your hard work is more than just a job, it's a career opportunity. It's a building block to a successful future in the world of business and hospitality.

Our people are our secret sauce to our success and mission of Creating Great Guest Memories. We are always looking for individuals who have what it takes to grow with us and share in our success. 

Position Summary:

Responsible for all grilled, broiled, fried, and sautéed items prepared in the kitchen.  Preparation and portioning of food items prior to cooking, such as tempura items, sauces, and grilled items.  Other duties include plating and garnishing cooked items.  Responsible for maintaining a sanitary kitchen workstation.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

In accordance with restaurant service and cooking procedures:

  • Prepares or directs preparations of all recipes in compliance with portions sizes, quality standards, department rules, policies and procedures in the Benihana Kitchen Guide and the Employee Handbook.
  • Prepares an extensive variety of cold and hot food items utilizing standardized recipes.
  • Prepares specially requested items.
  • Plan food production to coordinate with meal serving hours so that excellence, quality, temperature, and appearance of food is preserved.
  • Selects/utilizes knives, hand tools, utensils and equipment to portion, cut, slice, broil, roast, carve, skewer, garnish, maintain holding temperature, grill or otherwise produce food on the kitchen line.
  • Comply with established sanitation standards, personal hygiene, and health standards, observe proper food preparation and handling techniques as outlined in the Benihana Kitchen Guide and Employee Handbook.
  • Keeps Head Kitchen Chef informed of inventories.
  • Reports necessary equipment repair and maintenance to the Manager.
  • Reports any unsanitary equipment, storage/work areas and/or products to the Head Kitchen Chef.
  • Communicates with Lead Line Cook to facilitate customer orders efficiently and within required ticket times.
  • Follows all federal, state, and local laws, codes and regulations outlined by the General Manager and the Employee Handbook.
  • Keep work area neat, organized, and clean at all times; clean and maintain equipment used in food preparation.
  • Performs other duties as assigned by a supervisor.

Job Requirements:

  • Previous experience in food preparation required.
  • Experience in the restaurant industry is a plus.
  • Bilingual preferred.
  • A high school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Must be 18 years of age.

 Here are some of the sizzling benefits of working for us:

  • Fun working environment: You will work in a caring environment where you are highly valued and will have the opportunity to continue to develop and grow. 
  • Free shift meals: We believe in coming together as a family and want you to be able to enjoy a great meal. We provide all of our employees a free shift meal, every day.
  • Benefits are important: We know how important it is to take care of yourself and your family. We offer a full benefits suite that includes 401K, and Medical, Vision and Dental for you and your family.
  • Competitive Pay: Along with a competitive paycheck, you will have an opportunity to be well rewarded. 
We use eVerify to confirm U.S. Employment eligibility.