ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Master Chef Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Del Mar

Line Chef

San Diego, CA

$17 - $21.25/hr

As a Line Chef, you'll be the one bringing our scratch-made recipes to life on the hot line ... Master recipes and techniques for every kitchen station (hot and cold) * Build entrees quickly and ...

AccorHotel

Sous Chef

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

... you continue to master your craft. When you help us to achieve pioneering heights in luxury ... Collaborate with the Executive Chef to develop and execute seasonal menus that reflect the hotel ...

SOFITEL

Sous Chef

Los Angeles, CA

... you continue to master your craft. When you help us to achieve pioneering heights in luxury ... Collaborate with the Executive Chef to develop and execute seasonal menus that reflect the hotel ...

AccorHotel

Sous Chef

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

... you continue to master your craft. When you help us to achieve pioneering heights in luxury ... Collaborate with the Executive Chef to develop and execute seasonal menus that reflect the hotel ...

Montage International

Sous Chef

Laguna Beach, CA · On-site

$72K - $86K/yr

Sous Chef | Studio Imagine turning your passion and talent into a fulfilling career. Imagine a ... Embrace Technology - continually learn, adapt and master to new operating system * Knowledge of ...

Montage Hotels & Resorts

Sous Chef

Laguna Beach, CA

$72K - $86K/yr

Sous Chef | Studio Imagine turning your passion and talent into a fulfilling career. Imagine a ... Embrace Technology - continually learn, adapt and master to new operating system * Knowledge of ...

Selland Hospitality Group

Chef de Cuisine

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$91K - $95K/yr

Master Your Craft: Continued Education Reimbursements for WSET, Court of Masters, Pastry ... The Role The Chef de Cuisine position is an exceptional opportunity to serve as the operational ...

Ella Dining Room & Bar

Chef de Cuisine

Sacramento, CA

$43.75 - $45.67/hr

Master Your Craft: Continued Education Reimbursements for WSET, Court of Masters, Pastry ... The Role The Chef de Cuisine position is an exceptional opportunity to serve as the operational ...

Ella Dining Room & Bar

Chef de Cuisine

Sacramento, CA

$91K - $95K/yr

Master Your Craft: Continued Education Reimbursements for WSET, Court of Masters, Pastry ... The Role The Chef de Cuisine position is an exceptional opportunity to serve as the operational ...

Montage Hotels & Resorts

Chef de Cuisine

Laguna Beach, CA

$74K - $101K/yr

Chef de Cuisine| Studio Mediterranean Imagine turning your passion and talent into a fulfilling ... Embrace Technology - continually learn, adapt, and master to new operating system * Knowledge of ...

Montage International

Banquet Chef

Laguna Beach, CA · On-site

Banquet Chef Imagine turning your passion and talent into a fulfilling career. Imagine a beautiful ... Embrace Technology - continually learn, adapt, and master to new operating system * Knowledge of ...

Montage International

Banquet Chef

Laguna Beach, CA

Banquet Chef Imagine turning your passion and talent into a fulfilling career. Imagine a beautiful ... Embrace Technology - continually learn, adapt, and master to new operating system * Knowledge of ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsMaster Chef JobsMaster Chef Jobs in California

Master Chef information

See California salary details

$28.1K

$63.2K

$93.8K

How much do master chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for master chef in California is $63,156.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a master chef?

Master Chefs are highly skilled culinary professionals who have achieved a distinguished level of expertise in the culinary arts. They are often recognized for their exceptional cooking techniques, creativity, and leadership in the kitchen. Master Chefs typically oversee kitchen operations, develop innovative menus, and train junior chefs. Achieving the title of Master Chef often involves years of experience, formal training, and sometimes certification from reputable culinary organizations. They play a key role in maintaining high standards of food quality and presentation in restaurants or hospitality establishments.

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

To thrive as a Master Chef, you need advanced culinary skills, creativity, extensive food knowledge, and often formal culinary training or certification. Mastery of kitchen equipment, food safety protocols, and restaurant management systems is typically expected. Leadership, time management, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for leading kitchen teams and ensuring smooth operations. These competencies are vital for delivering high-quality cuisine, maintaining kitchen efficiency, and ensuring customer satisfaction in a demanding culinary environment.

What are some common challenges master chefs face when managing a kitchen team?

Master Chefs often encounter challenges related to coordinating a diverse kitchen staff, maintaining high standards under pressure, and managing time effectively during busy service periods. Balancing creativity with consistency, training junior team members, and ensuring clear communication among staff are also key aspects of the role. Successful Master Chefs foster a collaborative environment and use their leadership skills to resolve conflicts and keep operations running smoothly.

What is the difference between Master Chef vs Sous Chef?

AspectMaster ChefSous Chef
CredentialsCulinary degree or extensive experience, certificationsSimilar culinary training, often with experience in professional kitchens
Work EnvironmentHigh-end restaurants, culinary competitions, culinary schoolsCommercial kitchens, restaurants, hotels
Role & ResponsibilitiesOversees kitchen operations, menu creation, trainingAssists head chef, manages kitchen staff, supervises food prep

The main difference between a Master Chef and a Sous Chef lies in their responsibilities and status. A Master Chef typically holds a higher level of expertise, oversees entire kitchen operations, and may have additional certifications. A Sous Chef acts as the second-in-command, supporting the head chef and managing daily kitchen activities. Both roles require strong culinary skills and experience, but the Master Chef is often seen as a culinary authority and leader in the industry.

How do I become a master chef?

To become a master chef, one typically gains extensive culinary experience through formal training at culinary schools or apprenticeships, develops advanced cooking skills, and earns certifications such as the Certified Executive Chef credential. Gaining practical experience in professional kitchens and continuously refining techniques are essential steps toward mastery in the field.

What cities in California are hiring for Master Chef jobs?

Cities in California with the most Master Chef job openings:

Master Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Master Chef job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,156 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Line Chef

Del Mar

San Diego, CA

$17 - $21.25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

We are opening a new restaurant in Del Mar! We are looking for Kitchen team members to join!

goop kitchen is on a mission to to build the most trusted and exceptional, clean food and hospitality company for the world. Every meal we serve reflects our commitment to quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and genuine hospitality. We envision a world where clean eating is just eating-where food that's good for you is also vibrant, satisfying, and deeply enjoyable.

At goop kitchen, we're reimagining what "fast" food can be - clean, organic, and made with intention. We refer to our Line Cooks as Line Chefs. As a Line Chef, you'll be the one bringing our scratch-made recipes to life on the hot line, building beautifully plated entrees that taste as good as they look.

This is a kitchen for chefs who want to sharpen their craft: master every station, keep pace during peak rushes, and take pride in consistency, presentation, and flavor - every single ticket.

Your Impact:

  • Cook across the hot line - broilers, ovens, saute, and grill
  • Master recipes and techniques for every kitchen station (hot and cold)
  • Build entrees quickly and accurately with great presentation
  • Manage prep timing and par levels to stay ahead of the rush
  • Multi-task across cold prep, hot line, and cleaning during peak hours

Your Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental Vision Insurance*
  • 401k match*
  • Free shift meal
  • Employee discount
  • Opportunity to build and work in a dynamic and innovative environment.
  • A chance to make a meaningful impact on a rapidly growing brand.

* depending on eligibility

Your Essentials:

  • 18+ and authorized to work in the U.S.
  • Solid knife skills and cooking techniques (saute, grill, ovens)
  • Experience in a fast-paced kitchen (bonus points for health-forward or scratch-kitchen concepts)
  • Strong food safety knowledge
  • Food handler certification
  • Bilingual (Spanish/English) a plus

The Essential Functions of the Job:

  • Standing / Walking: Comfortable working and walking on your feet and standing for shifts of up to 8 hours
  • Lifting / Carrying: Routinely handling items up to 5-25 lbs, and occasionally handling items 40-50 lbs
  • Bending / Reaching / Kneeling: For accessing low and high areas and handling items, includes receiving orders, restocking, prep and portioning, retrieving kitchen and dishwashing equipment and tools
  • Repetitive Motion: Frequent tasks like cleaning, chopping, assembling, and mixing
  • Manual Dexterity: Ability to handle knives, kitchen tools, and equipment with precision and safety. Interacting with systems and managing cleaning tools
  • Temperature Tolerance: Must be able to work in hot, cold, and humid environments, including near ovens, stoves, and refrigeration units.

About goop kitchen
goop kitchen is an upscale fast-casual concept, founded by Gwyneth Paltrow in 2021, serving real, clean, and delicious food made-to-order. The brand focuses on thoughtfully sourced ingredients and chef-driven menus designed primarily for delivery and takeout.

Apply