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Opening Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mintex Technology

Sous Chef

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Upon the third opening, the current Executive Chef will step into a full multi-unit Executive Chef role overseeing all three CDCs -- this hire is part of that succession plan. MANDATORY * 2+ years as ...

Citrus & Salt

Executive Chef

Burlington, MA · On-site

$77K - $107K/yr

NOW HIRING - Executive Chef Citrus & Salt | Burlington, MA Chef Jason Santos is opening the newest Citrus & Salt in Burlington, MA, and we're looking for an exceptional Executive Chef to lead the ...

J C Beach Haven Tavern LLC

$75K - $100K/yr

... and are always open to fresh ideas to satisfy ever evolving market demands. Known for our ... Minimum 7 years experience with at least half of that as sous chef / chef

Gecko Hospitality (Brian Blum)

Executive Chef

Needham, MA · On-site

$110K - $115K/yr

Executive Chef New Restaurant Opening | Mediterranean Concept Needham, MA Build Something Extraordinary from the Ground Up We are seeking an innovative and entrepreneurial Executive Chef to lead the ...

Gecko Hospitality

Executive Chef

Needham, MA

$110K - $115K/yr

Executive Chef New Restaurant Opening | Mediterranean Concept Needham, MA Build Something Extraordinary from the Ground Up We are seeking an innovative and entrepreneurial Executive Chef to lead the ...

J C Beach Haven Tavern LLC

$75K - $100K/yr

... and are always open to fresh ideas to satisfy ever evolving market demands. Known for our ... Minimum 7 years experience with at least half of that as sous chef / chef

the Chef Agency

Executive Pastry Chef

Vero Beach, FL

$100K - $120K/yr

MDV, 401k, pto, relocation assistance New fine dining restaurant and gourmet market opening seeks a superstar Executive Pastry Chef to join their team Qualifications * 3-5+ years of Pastry Chef ...

Gecko Hospitality

Executive Chef

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Executive Chef - Salary $90,000 to $110,000 New Restaurant Opening | Atlanta GA We're opening an exciting new polished casual dining restaurant in Atlanta GA, and we're searching for a talented ...

Candela Cucina

Chef

New Bedford, MA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Chef Location: Candela Cucina, South Coast, MA Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced ... Open Availability Company Overview: Candela Cucina is the newest hotspot on the South Coast ...

Candela Cucina

Chef

New Bedford, MA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Chef Location: Candela Cucina, South Coast, MA Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced ... Open Availability ABOUT THE COMPANY Company Overview: Candela Cucina is the newest hotspot on the ...

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Opening Chef information

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How much do opening chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for opening chef 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.

Is 25 too late to become an opening chef?

Becoming an opening chef at age 25 is generally feasible, as many culinary professionals start their careers in their early 20s or later. Success depends on gaining relevant skills, experience, and certifications such as food safety training, rather than age alone.

What are some common challenges faced by opening chefs when launching a new restaurant, and how can they be addressed?

Opening Chefs often encounter challenges such as establishing kitchen workflows, training new staff, and ensuring consistency across the menu during a restaurant launch. They must quickly adapt recipes and procedures to real-world kitchen conditions, troubleshoot supply chain issues, and maintain high standards under tight deadlines. Successfully addressing these challenges involves thorough planning, clear communication with both front-of-house and back-of-house teams, and flexibility to adjust processes as needed. Building a strong team culture and conducting regular feedback sessions can also help ensure a smooth opening and ongoing operations.

What does an opening chef do?

An Opening Chef is responsible for launching the kitchen operations of a new restaurant or food venue. Their duties include designing the kitchen layout, creating menus, hiring and training kitchen staff, and establishing food safety and quality standards. They oversee the initial setup to ensure smooth service once the restaurant opens, often working closely with management and suppliers. Opening Chefs play a crucial role in setting the culinary tone and operational standards for the business.

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

To thrive as an Opening Chef, you need strong culinary expertise, experience in menu development, and a proven track record in kitchen management, often supported by culinary school training or equivalent experience. Familiarity with inventory management systems, point-of-sale (POS) software, and food safety certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Leadership, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating new teams and establishing kitchen workflows. These skills ensure smooth restaurant launches, consistent food quality, and successful team integration during crucial opening phases.

How to get an opening chef job with no experience?

To get an opening chef job with no experience, focus on gaining basic culinary skills through cooking classes or volunteering in kitchens. Entry-level positions often require a positive attitude, willingness to learn, and good teamwork, and some employers may consider candidates with relevant certifications or culinary school training.

What is the difference between Opening Chef vs Sous Chef?

AspectOpening ChefSous Chef
Credentials Culinary degree or equivalent, food safety certifications Culinary degree or equivalent, food safety certifications
Work Environment Kitchen, restaurant opening or prep phase Kitchen, active service, supervising staff
Employer & Industry Usage Used during restaurant openings or renovations Commonly found in daily kitchen operations
Search & Comparison Intent Understanding roles during restaurant setup Clarifying leadership in kitchen staff

Opening Chefs focus on preparing kitchens for new restaurant openings, overseeing setup, and initial food prep. Sous Chefs manage daily kitchen operations, supervise staff, and assist the Executive Chef. While both roles require culinary skills and certifications, Opening Chefs are key during launch phases, whereas Sous Chefs are integral to ongoing kitchen management.

What cities are hiring for Opening Chef jobs? Cities with the most Opening Chef job openings:
Opening Chef jobs near you

Executive Chef - Casino - Dubuque, IA

the Chef Agency

Dubuque, IA

$110K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 hours ago

Job description

Location: Dubuque, IA
Salary: $100,000 - $120,000
Benefits: Standard benefits; open to relocation
The Executive Chef will lead all culinary operations for an opening steakhouse restaurant on a casino property, overseeing the steakhouse, high-volume service, and a diverse culinary team. This role is responsible for menu execution, kitchen leadership, and maintaining exceptional food quality across all dining experiences.
Qualifications
  • 5+ years of Executive Chef or senior culinary leadership in casinos, resorts, or high-volume multi-outlet operations. Steakhouse experience preferred.
  • Strong background in team development, food cost management, and operational systems
  • Skilled in delivering consistent quality in fast-paced, high-volume environments
Responsibilities
  • Oversee all culinary outlets, ensuring high standards of quality, consistency, and presentation
  • Lead and mentor culinary teams, managing labor, food cost, procurement, and kitchen operations
  • Collaborate with property leadership to support guest satisfaction, menu initiatives, and operational goals
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About Chef Agency

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THE MOST TALENTED RECRUITING TEAM IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY. With our support, you’ll have exclusive access to top-tier clients, a robust candidate database, insight from industry experts, and the necessary training and tools needed to build your book of business. Reach out today, and create your own work-life balance while achieving success in the recruiting world.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

2013

Social media

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