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Menu Development Chef Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Troy, IL

$20 - $25/hr

... • Menu Development: Assist with creating new menu items, seasonal specials, and improving ... Sous Chef or Lead Line Cook in a high-volume kitchen • Strong culinary skills and knowledge of ...

The Menu Strategy Analyst will assist with planning the Home Chef Ecommerce menus. This requires involvement in the meal R&D process/planning, supporting the menu development, execution process, and ...

Chef

Chicago, IL

$28.85 - $34.62/hr

This includes menu development and execution, food quality, staffing, scheduling, ordering ... The Chef works closely with ownership and serves as the primary leader of the kitchen team.

Chef

Chicago, IL

$60K - $72K/yr

This includes menu development and execution, food quality, staffing, scheduling, ordering ... The Chef works closely with ownership and serves as the primary leader of the kitchen team.

Executive Chef

Matteson, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

The Executive Chef will oversee multiple Food & Beverage concepts, including the Applebee's kitchen ... The ideal candidate is a strong culinary leader with banquet expertise, menu-development experience ...

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K - $77K/yr

Maintain strict food safety, hygiene, and compliance standards * Assist with menu development and ... Chef or equivalent) * Michelin-starred or luxury fine dining background required (2-3 Michelin ...

This role is responsible for elevating a modern steakhouse concept through exceptional food quality, refined execution, and innovative menu development. The Executive Chef will oversee all kitchen ...

Sous Chef

Lake In The Hills, IL · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Sous Chef Boulder Ridge Country Club Boulder Ridge Country Club is a premier private club dedicated ... Support menu execution, recipe consistency, and seasonal menu development. * Help train new team ...

Job Details The Executive Chef is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational excellence ... Menu Development & Culinary Innovation: * Lead the creation, development, execution, and ongoing ...

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135K - $145K/yr

Job Details The Executive Chef is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational excellence ... Menu Development & Culinary Innovation: * Lead the creation, development, execution, and ongoing ...

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135K - $145K/yr

Job Details The Executive Chef is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational excellence ... Menu Development & Culinary Innovation: * Lead the creation, development, execution, and ongoing ...

Who You Are The R&D Chef is the culinary architect for the brand, bridging the gap between Michelin ... Menu Engineering: Optimize menus for profitability and guest experience, ensuring innovation is ...

Sous Chef, Full-Time

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

Assists the Executive Chef in all phases of planning, ordering, inventory, and food preparation ... Food Production, Menu Development, and Delivery: * Assist with menu development and implementation ...

Collaborate with the Executive Chef and Banquet Chef on menu development, seasonal offerings, and custom requests for events. * Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff, building a skilled and motivated ...

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Corporate Executive Chef

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Executive Chef Location: Lake Forest, IL Salary: $140,000-$160,000 (Dependent on Experience ... Proven knowledge of menu development, cost control, budgeting, and kitchen operations. * Passion ...

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Menu Development Chef information

See Illinois salary details

$27.6K

$62K

$92.1K

How much do menu development chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for menu development chef in Illinois is $62,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $72,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Menu Development Chef do?

A Menu Development Chef is responsible for creating and refining restaurant or food service menus. They research food trends, develop new recipes, and ensure dishes meet quality, cost, and customer preference standards. Their role involves collaborating with kitchen staff, sourcing ingredients, and balancing creativity with operational feasibility. They may also consider dietary restrictions, sustainability, and market demands to craft appealing menus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Menu Development Chef position, and why are they important?

A Menu Development Chef needs a strong background in culinary arts, menu planning, and food safety, typically supported by formal culinary education or significant industry experience. Proficiency with recipe costing software, inventory management systems, and HACCP certification are often required. Creativity, adaptability, and excellent collaboration skills help chefs stand out in this role. These qualifications ensure the chef can design innovative yet practical menus that meet customer preferences, operational needs, and budget goals.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of a Menu Development Chef?

A Menu Development Chef typically spends their days designing and testing new recipes, evaluating food costs, and sourcing high-quality ingredients. They often collaborate closely with kitchen staff, suppliers, and management to ensure new menu items align with the restaurant's brand and cost targets. The role also involves staying up-to-date with culinary trends and conducting staff training on new dishes. This balance of creative experimentation and operational planning makes for a dynamic and rewarding workday.

What are popular job titles related to Menu Development Chef jobs in Illinois? For Menu Development Chef jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Menu Development Chef jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Menu Development Chef jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Menu Development Chef job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,012 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

The Sous Chef is the second-in-command in the kitchen, working closely with the Executive Chef to oversee food preparation, ensure consistency, and maintain high culinary standards. This role requires a strong leader who can manage the kitchen staff, execute menu items with precision, and help create a smooth, efficient kitchen operation.

Key Responsibilities:

Kitchen Leadership: Support the Executive Chef in managing daily kitchen operations and leading the team

Food Preparation & Quality Control: Ensure all dishes are prepared consistently, with excellent taste and presentation

Team Supervision & Training: Coach, mentor, and train kitchen staff to uphold culinary standards

Inventory & Ordering: Monitor inventory, place orders, manage food costs, and minimize waste

Health & Safety Compliance: Maintain strict adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene protocols

Menu Development: Assist with creating new menu items, seasonal specials, and improving existing dishes

Line Cooking & Expedite Service: Step in as needed during busy service periods, including cooking on the line or expediting

Problem-Solving & Efficiency: Address issues quickly to ensure a smooth and productive kitchen environment

What We’re Looking For:

• Minimum 2+ years of experience as a Sous Chef or Lead Line Cook in a high-volume kitchen

• Strong culinary skills and knowledge of cooking techniques, ingredients, and kitchen equipment

• Proven leadership ability with excellent communication and team management skills

• Strong time management and the ability to work efficiently in a high-pressure environment

• Creativity and passion for food innovation and menu development

• Keen attention to detail, especially regarding quality, consistency, and plating

• Food Safety Certification (ServSafe or equivalent preferred)