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Highest Chef Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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:

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:

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

Washington, DC · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $90,000 - $100,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus ... Taste and evaluate menu items to maintain the highest standards of food quality and guest ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $90,000 - $100,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus ... Taste and evaluate menu items to maintain the highest standards of food quality and guest ...

Compass Group

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$90K - $100K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $90,000 - $100,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus ... Taste and evaluate menu items to maintain the highest standards of food quality and guest ...

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

$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 ...

Restaurant Associates

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Executive Chef Salary: $90,000 - $100,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Annual Performance Bonus ... Taste and evaluate menu items to maintain the highest standards of food quality and guest ...

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 ...

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 ...

the Chef Agency

Pastry Chef

Naples, FL

$80K - $100K/yr

Naples, FL Salary: up to 100k Benefits: Yes Relocation: Yes,within Florida An upscale organic ... Maintain the highest standards of presentation, quality, and food safety * Train and mentor the ...

Love Management Inc

Sous Chef

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Competitive salary * Dental insurance * Employee discounts * Health insurance * Opportunity for ... Maintain the highest standards of food preparation, presentation, and plating. * Oversee daily line ...

Drift on Lake Wylie

Sous Chef

Belmont, NC · On-site

$1.1K/wk

Committed to delivering the highest quality of food, product standards, sanitation and safety ... Salary Description Weekly salary $1192.31

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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 16, 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.
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What states have the most Highest Chef Salary jobs?

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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.

Sous Chef

Donohoe Hospitality

Washington, DC • On-site

$67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team as a Sous Chef 

Are you ready to elevate your culinary career and deliver outstanding hospitality in an exciting, ever-evolving environment? We're seeking a meticulous, passionate, and disciplined Sous Chef for our banquet & catering operation.

Our establishment is designed to foster stronger community ties, where common ground and scenic beauty are shared equally. This commitment to inclusivity and community building is at the heart of everything we do.

Sous Chef

Salary Range: $65,000 - $70,000 annually (experience-based compensation)

Why You'll Love Working with Us:

Innovative Culinary Experience: Be part of a team that works with a seasonally chef-created menu that changes with the seasons, offering our guests a fresh and exciting dining experience every time they visit.

Dynamic Work Environment: Contribute to the success of a vibrant kitchen team that values collaboration, efficiency, and excellence in every task.

Position Summary: The Sous Chef is responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in managing kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene.

Essential Functions:

  • Supervise and coordinate the activities of cooks and kitchen staff.
  • Ensure consistent and high-quality food preparation and presentation.
  • Assist in menu planning and development, considering seasonal ingredients and guest preferences.
  • Monitor inventory levels and assist in ordering supplies.
  • Maintain the cleanliness and organization of kitchen areas.
  • Train and mentor kitchen staff to foster a positive and productive work environment.
  • Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations and procedures.
  • Manage kitchen operations in the Executive Chef's absence.

Additional Responsibilities:

Adhere to all work rules, procedures, and policies established by the hotel, including, but not limited to, those contained in the employee handbook.

The hotel operates 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Department schedules must accommodate fluctuating business demands, and employees may be asked to work shifts other than those they prefer or normally work.

Education and Experience:

  • Culinary degree or equivalent experience.
  • Previous experience as a Sous Chef or in a similar role in a high-end hotel or restaurant.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Meticulous attention to detail.
  • Strong passion for food and culinary excellence.
  • Discipline and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
  • Excellent leadership and team management skills.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.

Benefits and Perks:

Donohoe Hospitality Services is pleased to offer employees a comprehensive Benefits Package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, leaves of absence, retirement plans, paid time off, and MORE! Through this selection of benefits and perks, we strive to provide employees with options that enhance their quality of life at work and beyond.

Compensation: Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Ready to become a vital part of a team committed to culinary excellence? Apply here now and send your resume to alexis.hernandez@marriott.com.

If you know someone who would be a great fit, please share this opportunity!

Join us and be part of a team dedicated to delivering exceptional dining experiences and creating lasting memories. Cheers to endless opportunities and endless fun!

Apply