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Highest Chef Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

MK Banquets Chef (Salary)

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

We empower our leaders to inspire their teams, maintain the highest standards of food quality and ... As Banquets Chef, you will oversee all banquet food planning, production, and execution, ensuring ...

prh

MK Banquets Chef (Salary)

Kamuela, HI · On-site

We empower our leaders to inspire their teams, maintain the highest standards of food quality and ... As Banquets Chef, you will oversee all banquet food planning, production, and execution, ensuring ...

Donohoe Hospitality Services

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$67K/yr

Sous Chef Salary Range: $65,000 - $70,000 annually (experience-based compensation) Why You'll Love ... ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene. Essential Functions:

Donohoe Hospitality

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$67K/yr

Sous Chef Salary Range: $65,000 - $70,000 annually (experience-based compensation) Why You'll Love ... ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene. Essential Functions:

Shawarma Guys

Executive Chef

San Diego, CA

$80K/yr

Executive Chef * $80,000 Annual Salary * Eligibility for the Executive Chef Performance Bonus ... Guys' highest-volume locations. During the Management Training Program, candidates must ...

Shawarma Guys

Executive Chef

San Diego, CA

$80K/yr

Executive Chef * $80,000 Annual Salary * Eligibility for the Executive Chef Performance Bonus ... Guys' highest-volume locations. During the Management Training Program, candidates must ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$83K - $88K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $83,000 to $88,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Bonus CULINAIRE provides ... This leadership position will oversee the culinary program with a major focus on the highest level ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$83K - $88K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $83,000 to $88,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Bonus CULINAIRE provides ... This leadership position will oversee the culinary program with a major focus on the highest level ...

Culinaire

Executive Chef

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$83K - $88K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $83,000 to $88,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Bonus CULINAIRE provides ... This leadership position will oversee the culinary program with a major focus on the highest level ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$83K - $88K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $83,000 to $88,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Bonus CULINAIRE provides ... This leadership position will oversee the culinary program with a major focus on the highest level ...

Broadmead

Assistant Executive Chef

Cockeysville, MD

$60K - $70K/yr

Assistant Executive Chef Salary Range-$60,000-70,000 (based on exp) Lead Culinary Excellence at ... Maintaining the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety * Conducting ...

Compass Group

Banquet Senior Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

Position: Banquet Senior Sous Chef Salary: $85,000 to $100,00 Founded in 2005 as Hudson Yards ... the highest standards of quality, consistency, and execution. Responsibilities include: * Lead ...

Compass Group

Banquet Senior Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

Position: Banquet Senior Sous Chef Salary: $85,000 to $100,00 Founded in 2005 as Hudson Yards ... the highest standards of quality, consistency, and execution. Responsibilities include: * Lead ...

Compass Group

Banquet Senior Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K/yr

Position: Banquet Senior Sous Chef Salary: $85,000 to $100,00 Founded in 2005 as Hudson Yards ... the highest standards of quality, consistency, and execution. Responsibilities include: * Lead ...

the Chef Agency

Head Chef

Miami, FL

$70K - $100K/yr

Miami, FL Salary: Up to $100,000 Benefits: Yes, TBD Relocation: locals only A premium grocery ... Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, food safety, and operational excellence

the Chef Agency

Executive Sous Chef

Beverly Hills, CA

$120K - $140K/yr

Location: Los Angeles, CA Salary: $120K-$140K Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), PTO ... maintaining the highest culinary standards. Qualifications * 3+ years as a Chef de Cuisine or ...

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Highest Chef Salary information

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How much do highest chef salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for highest chef salary in the United States is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary a chef can earn?

The highest salaries for chefs are typically earned by executive chefs at prestigious restaurants, luxury hotels, or as private chefs for celebrities. In the United States, top chefs can earn well over $100,000 annually, with some celebrity chefs making millions through television appearances, endorsements, and their own restaurant chains. Factors influencing a chef's earnings include experience, reputation, location, and the type of establishment they work for. Additionally, chefs who own their own restaurants or have a strong personal brand can significantly increase their income. However, achieving these top salaries requires years of experience, exceptional skill, and often a strong media presence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an executive chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Chef, you need advanced culinary expertise, menu planning skills, and extensive kitchen management experience, often gained through culinary school and several years in progressively responsible kitchen roles. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications (such as ServSafe) is essential. Leadership, creativity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for inspiring teams, innovating menus, and maintaining high standards. These skills ensure operational efficiency, consistent food quality, and a positive dining experience, all crucial for success in top chef positions.

What is the difference between Highest Chef Salary vs Sous Chef?

AspectHighest Chef SalarySous Chef
Required CredentialsProfessional culinary certifications, extensive experienceCooking experience, culinary training, certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentLuxury restaurants, hotels, private estatesRestaurants, hotels, catering services
Employer & Industry UsageHigh-end establishments, culinary competitionsMost restaurants and hospitality venues

The Highest Chef Salary typically exceeds that of a Sous Chef due to higher experience, leadership roles, and working in upscale environments. While both roles require culinary skills and certifications, the highest-paid chefs often hold executive or specialized positions, reflecting their advanced expertise and responsibilities.

What factors can influence the salary potential for chefs at the highest levels?

At the highest levels, a chef's salary is influenced by several factors, including the reputation and location of the establishment, years of experience, culinary awards, and the ability to manage large teams or multiple venues. Chefs who work in fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, or as executive chefs for renowned hospitality groups tend to earn the most. Additionally, those who build a public profile through media appearances, cookbooks, or ownership of multiple restaurants can significantly increase their earning potential.
More about Highest Chef Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Highest Chef Salary jobs? Cities with the most Highest Chef Salary job openings:
What states have the most Highest Chef Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Highest Chef Salary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Highest Chef Salary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Highest Chef Salary jobs are:
Highest Chef Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Highest Chef Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,225 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

MK Banquets Chef (Salary)

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Kamuela, HI • On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Aloha and Welcome! Thank you for your interest in employment opportunities with Mauna Kea Resort. We invite you to our dynamic team of hospitality professionals. We are confident that our salary and benefits package will be attractive. In addition to industry-competitive salaries, team member recognition programs, and training and career opportunities, we also offer the following benefits: medical, drug, vision, and dental care, life insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, dining, and golf discounts, and more.
At Mauna Kea Resort, we're creating a hospitality company whose future is unlimited and whose values reflect the dedication and passion of our employees. Our success is measured by the quality of the relationships we build with one another, our guests, and our strategic partners. By seeking ways to add value to every encounter, we set ourselves apart from others and instill a sense of pride that is uniquely Prince. We invite you to share this journey with us.
Division: Management & Non-Union (MAN010)
Band 3
MKR Banquets Chef
At Mauna Kea Resort, every banquet, celebration, conference, wedding, and special event is an opportunity to create unforgettable experiences through exceptional cuisine and genuine hospitality. From intimate gatherings overlooking Kauna'oa Bay to large-scale resort events, our Banquets team delivers memorable moments that showcase the flavors, creativity, and excellence that define Mauna Kea.
We are seeking a Banquets Chef who is a passionate culinary leader with exceptional organizational skills, strong operational knowledge, and a commitment to delivering outstanding banquet experiences. This role is ideal for an experienced chef who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys leading teams, and excels at executing high-quality events while balancing creativity, efficiency, and financial performance.
Our culture is built on collaboration, accountability, and culinary excellence. We empower our leaders to inspire their teams, maintain the highest standards of food quality and presentation, and create exceptional experiences for guests and clients alike. Here, your leadership, creativity, and expertise will play a vital role in the success of one of Hawai'i's premier resort destinations.
As a Hawaii Business Magazine "Best Places to Work" recipient for five consecutive years, we are committed to investing in our people through competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, career development opportunities, recognition programs, and outstanding travel perks through Marriott and Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.
If you are passionate about large-scale event dining, culinary innovation, and leading talented teams to success, we invite you to join our culinary leadership team.
Position Overview and Responsibilities:
As Banquets Chef, you will oversee all banquet food planning, production, and execution, ensuring exceptional quality, consistency, and service for resort events. You will supervise culinary team members, manage banquet culinary operations, control food and labor costs, and collaborate closely with Sales, Catering, Food & Beverage, Stewarding, and Engineering teams to ensure successful event execution. This role requires strong leadership, culinary expertise, organizational skills, and financial acumen.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Oversee all banquet food planning, preparation, production, and execution.
  • Ensure banquet events are executed efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of quality and presentation.
  • Review and monitor food and labor costs for all banquet functions.
  • Assist the Executive Chef and Executive Sous Chef in establishing and implementing cost-control procedures.
  • Create, maintain, and update recipe costing cards and banquet menu specifications.
  • Maintain comprehensive knowledge of banquet menus and resort dining offerings.
  • Attend weekly banquet event meetings to review upcoming functions and operational requirements.
  • Anticipate and prepare for changes in event details, menu selections, and guest counts.
  • Manage banquet food requisitioning, inventory levels, storage procedures, and product rotation.
  • Partner with the Purchasing team to ensure proper inventory levels and cost management.
  • Collaborate with culinary and operational departments to ensure event specifications are successfully executed.
  • Ensure all food is prepared, transported, and presented according to resort standards.
  • Oversee banquet buffet setup, replenishment, and presentation throughout events.
  • Respond to guest dietary needs, allergies, special requests, and service concerns before and during events.
  • Inspect banquet equipment and coordinate maintenance and repairs with Stewarding and Engineering teams.
  • Ensure food storage areas, coolers, and reach-in units remain secure and properly maintained.
  • Maintain compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health regulations.
  • Train, coach, counsel, evaluate, and discipline culinary team members as necessary.
  • Ensure compliance with workplace safety standards and culinary operating procedures.
  • Provide leadership support in restaurant outlets when operational needs require.
  • Update banquet recipe manuals, menu photography, and operational standards.
  • Develop recommendations for banquet menus and special event offerings to increase guest satisfaction, sales, and profitability.
  • Support both on-property and off-property catering and event opportunities.
  • Respond to and resolve guest, client, and employee concerns in a timely and professional manner.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Banquet Operations Responsibilities:
  • Lead culinary execution for weddings, conferences, social events, corporate meetings, and special resort functions.
  • Review banquet event orders (BEOs) and communicate event requirements to culinary teams.
  • Ensure proper staffing levels are maintained for banquet production and service.
  • Monitor production timelines and coordinate event execution across multiple venues.
  • Maintain quality control standards throughout preparation, plating, buffet presentation, and service.
  • Ensure all banquet food is prepared and served according to established menu specifications.
  • Support successful event execution while minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.

Financial and Administrative Responsibilities:
  • Monitor banquet food costs, labor costs, and operating expenses.
  • Assist with forecasting, budgeting, and financial planning for banquet operations.
  • Maintain accurate production records, inventories, requisitions, and operational documentation.
  • Evaluate operational performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Support menu development initiatives focused on profitability, guest satisfaction, and innovation.

Secondary Job Functions:
  • Attend management, culinary, and operational meetings as required.
  • Oversee buffet and banquet setup activities.
  • Support menu planning, quality control, and cost management for employee dining operations.
  • Participate in resort receptions, special functions, and culinary events.
  • Assist with training programs and leadership development initiatives.
  • Support resort-wide culinary projects and special assignments as needed.

Working Conditions:
  • Majority of work is performed in banquet kitchens, food preparation areas, and event venues both indoors and outdoors.
  • Frequent exposure to varying temperatures, including hot cooking environments and refrigerated storage areas.
  • Ability to work around grills, ovens, steamers, stoves, and other commercial kitchen equipment.
  • Fast-paced environment with frequent interaction among culinary teams, banquet staff, clients, and guests.
  • Exposure to kitchen noise, equipment operation, and high-volume production periods.

Work Hours:
  • Must be able to work schedules based on banquet and event requirements.
  • Must be available to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.
  • Must be able to work long and irregular hours.
  • Must be able to work more than 50 hours per week when operational needs require.

Equipment Use:
  • Ability to safely and efficiently operate commercial kitchen equipment including grills, ovens, stoves, steamers, slicers, mixers, and food processors.
  • Ability to use kitchen tools including knives, peelers, and can openers.
  • Proficiency with computers, calculators, telephones, and standard office equipment.
  • Ability to utilize culinary management and operational software systems.

Mental and Physical Demands:
  • Ability to prioritize and organize multiple events, deadlines, and operational demands.
  • Ability to manage stressful and challenging situations while maintaining professionalism.
  • Ability to multitask while overseeing culinary production and banquet service execution.
  • Strong leadership and decision-making abilities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull food products, equipment, and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work flexible schedules to support banquet operations.

Communication Demands:
  • Ability to communicate effectively with culinary teams, banquet staff, managers, clients, and vendors.
  • Ability to provide direction, coaching, and performance feedback to employees.
  • Ability to write recipes, standards, requisitions, and operational documentation.
  • Ability to communicate professionally in person, by telephone, and through written correspondence.

Minimum Qualification Requirements:
  • Minimum three (3) years of progressive culinary experience, preferably in banquet, catering, hotel, or resort operations.
  • Previous supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
  • Food Safety Certification required.
  • Valid Department of Health TB Clearance required.
  • Strong knowledge of banquet production, food presentation, and event execution.
  • Experience managing food costs, labor costs, and inventory controls.
  • Ability to lead and develop culinary team members.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Commitment to culinary excellence, guest satisfaction, and operational success.

We appreciate your interest in joining our 'Ohana. Due to our numerous inquiries, only qualified applicants for posted positions will be contacted by phone or email provided on your employment application form.

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