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Opening Executive Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gecko Hospitality

Executive Chef

Atlanta, GA

$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 ...

Metz Culinary Management

Executive Chef

Henderson, TN · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Metz Culinary Management is growing and we have an opening for Rock Star Executive Chef who shares our passion for Food and Service and Leadership. We are seeking a Culinary Leader, with a passion ...

Metz Culinary Management

Executive Chef

Ave Maria, FL · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

Metz Culinary Management is growing and we have an opening for Rock Star Executive Chef who shares our passion for Food and Service and Leadership. We are seeking a Culinary Leader, with a passion ...

City Winery International

Executive Chef

Manhattan, NY

$78K - $108K/yr

Support new property openings, leadership transitions, and operational improvement initiatives ... Partner with the National R&D Executive Chef to evaluate menu profitability and recommend ...

Marylandconnect

$70K - $97K/yr

Regular Open Date: 08-06-2026 Close Date: $76,000 - $80,000 Job Summary The Executive Chef provides strategic culinary leadership for all campus dining operations at a public institution of ...

Crawford's | Bar & Grill

Executive Chef

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$71K - $98K/yr

Executive Chef - New Concept Opening Location: Sioux Falls, SD Compensation: Competitive salary + performance incentives Employment Type: Full-Time About the Role We are launching an exciting new ...

Metz Culinary Management

Executive Chef

Quitman, GA · On-site

$58K - $79K/yr

Metz Culinary Management is growing and we have an opening for Rock Star Executive Chef who shares our passion for Food and Service and Leadership. We are seeking a Culinary Leader, with a passion ...

SQUAREONE HOLDING COMPANY

Executive Chef

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

Open patios, communal tables, and welcoming bar areas invite guests to stay longer and connect more ... Executive Chef responsibilities include: • Hiring, training, and development of hospitality ...

Big Fish

Executive Chef

Myrtle Beach, SC · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

This is a pre-opening role you'll help build the kitchen, the menu, and the BOH team from scratch. The Role The Executive Chef owns everything that comes out of our kitchen menu development, food ...

Metz Culinary Management

Executive Chef

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$78K - $108K/yr

Metz Culinary Management is growing and we have an opening for Rock Star Executive Chef who shares our passion for Food and Service and Leadership. We are seeking a Culinary Leader, with a passion ...

Metz Culinary Management

Executive Chef

Allentown, PA · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Metz Culinary Management is growing and we have an opening for Rock Star Executive Chef who shares our passion for Food and Service and Leadership. We are seeking a Culinary Leader, with a passion ...

Gecko Hospitality

Executive Chef

Mount Pleasant, SC

$70K - $90K/yr

Support company initiatives, new restaurant openings, and future growth as needed Qualifications * Previous Executive Chef or senior culinary leadership experience in a high volume, full service ...

Metz Culinary Management

Executive Chef

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$62K - $86K/yr

Metz Culinary Management is growing and we have an opening for Rock Star Executive Chef who shares our passion for Food and Service and Leadership. We are seeking a Culinary Leader, with a passion ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Executive Chef

Wichita, KS · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Our Executive Chefs develop and lead team members by coaching and providing feedback on job ... New store openings- several growth opportunities for all team members! * Holiday closures- closed ...

Dhall Hospitality Group

Executive Chef

Hicksville, NY · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Slated for a 2022 launch, HAKA will open in Hicksville, Long Island's hottest neighborhood and we ... We are looking for a Executive Chef to join the team at HAKA. As Executive Chef, you will be ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Executive Chef

Greenville, SC · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Our Executive Chefs develop and lead team members by coaching and providing feedback on job ... New store openings- several growth opportunities for all team members! * Holiday closures- closed ...

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How much do opening executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for opening executive chef in the United States is $86,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an opening executive chef?

An Opening Executive Chef is a culinary professional responsible for launching the kitchen operations of a new restaurant, hotel, or food establishment. They develop menus, hire and train kitchen staff, set up kitchen workflows, and ensure that all culinary standards are met before and during the opening. Their goal is to establish high-quality food service from day one and set the foundation for long-term success. This role requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to work under tight deadlines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an opening executive chef?

To thrive as an Opening Executive Chef, you need expertise in culinary arts, menu development, kitchen management, and typically a degree in culinary studies or relevant experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory software, and food safety certifications (like ServSafe) is essential. Leadership, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for guiding teams and establishing kitchen culture. These competencies enable successful restaurant launches, consistent food quality, and efficient operations from day one.

What are some common challenges faced by an opening executive chef during the launch of a new restaurant?

An Opening Executive Chef often faces challenges such as creating and standardizing a new menu, training a brand-new kitchen staff, and establishing efficient kitchen workflows under tight deadlines. Additionally, they must collaborate closely with management, suppliers, and front-of-house teams to ensure seamless coordination for a successful opening. Balancing high-quality food preparation with cost control and adapting quickly to unforeseen issues are also key aspects of this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Opening Executive Chef vs Executive Chef?

AspectOpening Executive ChefExecutive Chef
CredentialsCulinary degree, extensive experience, leadership skillsCulinary degree, experience, leadership skills
Work EnvironmentPre-opening planning, menu development, team hiringOverseeing daily kitchen operations, staff management
Employer & Industry UsageUsed during restaurant or hotel openingsUsed for ongoing kitchen management
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles during restaurant launchesManaging existing kitchen operations

The Opening Executive Chef focuses on preparing a new restaurant or kitchen for launch, including menu creation and team setup. The Executive Chef manages daily kitchen operations once the establishment is open. Both roles require culinary expertise and leadership, but their focus differs based on the stage of the restaurant's lifecycle.

Do opening executive chefs get paid well?

Opening executive chefs typically earn higher salaries compared to other culinary roles due to their leadership responsibilities and experience requirements. Compensation varies based on the size and location of the establishment, but they often receive competitive wages, bonuses, and benefits. Strong leadership skills and culinary expertise can positively impact earning potential in this role.

Is an opening executive chef a stressful job?

An opening executive chef role can be stressful due to the high level of responsibility for kitchen operations, staff management, and meeting quality standards. The job often involves long hours, tight deadlines, and the need to quickly adapt to new environments and menus.

What cities are hiring for Opening Executive Chef jobs?

Cities with the most Opening Executive Chef job openings:

What states have the most Opening Executive Chef jobs?

States with the most job openings for Opening Executive Chef jobs include:

Opening Executive Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Opening Executive Chef job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,886 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Executive Chef

Gecko Hospitality

Atlanta, GA

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

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 Executive Chef to lead the culinary vision from day one. This is a hands-on leadership role for a creative, organized, and people-focused chef who loves building great food, strong teams, and memorable guest experiences.

What You’ll Do
  • Create and execute a seasonally driven, approachable menu that reflects a polished casual dining style
  • Lead, mentor, and inspire the kitchen team while fostering a positive, accountable culture
  • Oversee all back-of-house culinary operations, including food quality, consistency, and presentation
  • Manage food costs, labor, inventory, and vendor relationships
  • Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation standards
  • Collaborate closely with ownership and management to shape the restaurant’s opening and long-term success in Atlanta GA
What We’re Looking For
  • Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Chef in a high-quality casual or polished casual dining environment
  • Strong leadership skills with a passion for team development
  • Solid understanding of food cost control, kitchen systems, and operational efficiency
  • Creative mindset balanced with consistency and discipline
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced opening environment in Atlanta GA
What We Offer
  • Base salary of $90,000 – $110,000, depending on experience
  • Full benefits package (health, dental, vision, PTO, and more)
  • Opportunity to open and shape a brand-new restaurant
  • Creative freedom within a clear, focused concept
  • Long-term growth potential with an expanding hospitality group in Atlanta GA
If you’re ready to bring your culinary leadership to a new, high-energy restaurant opening in Atlanta GA, we’d love to hear from you.