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Opening Executive Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef

San Antonio, TX ยท On-site

$77K - $82K/yr

We are seeking a Executive Chef to join our management team! Are you passionate about culinary ... This position requires open availability depending on the needs of the restaurant. Prior experience ...

Executive Chef

Greenville, SC ยท 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 ...

Executive Chef

Dania Beach, FL ยท On-site

$70K - $96K/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 ...

Executive Chef

Omaha, NE ยท On-site

$70K - $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 ...

Executive Chef

Greenville, SC ยท On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Our Executive Chefs are responsible for all back of house team members, operations, and food ... New store openings-- several growth opportunities for all team members! * Holiday closures-- closed ...

Executive Chef

Dania Beach, FL

$70K - $96K/yr

Our Executive Chefs are responsible for all back of house team members, operations, and food ... New store openings-- several growth opportunities for all team members! * Holiday closures-- closed ...

Executive Chef

Wichita, KS ยท On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Our Executive Chefs are responsible for all back of house team members, operations, and food ... New store openings-- several growth opportunities for all team members! * Holiday closures-- closed ...

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 ...

Executive Chef

San Antonio, TX ยท On-site

$77K - $82K/yr

We are seeking a Executive Chef to join our management team! Are you passionate about culinary ... This position requires open availability depending on the needs of the restaurant. Prior experience ...

Executive Chef

Dania Beach, FL ยท On-site

$70K - $96K/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 ...

Executive Chef

Wayne, PA

$64K - $89K/yr

Executive Chef Opportunity Upscale Classic Italian Restaurant Opening in Wayne, PA Position: Executive Chef Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania About the Opportunity We are seeking an accomplished and ...

New

Executive Chef

Hicksville, NY ยท 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 ...

Executive Chef

Greenville, SC ยท 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 ...

Executive Chef

Omaha, NE ยท On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Our Executive Chefs are responsible for all back of house team members, operations, and food ... New store openings-- several growth opportunities for all team members! * Holiday closures-- closed ...

Executive Chef

Wichita, KS ยท 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 ...

Executive Chef

Dania Beach, FL

$70K - $96K/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 ...

Executive Chef

Greenville, SC

$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 ...

... fits Executive Chef, CDC, or strong Exec Sous ready to step up Has led serious volume or multi ... S.-based, open to relocation Comp + setup $120K $130K base 30% incentive potential Relocation ...

Executive Chef

Omaha, NE ยท On-site

$70K - $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 ...

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Opening Executive Chef information

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$40K

$86.9K

$130K

How much do opening executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 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.

How much does an executive chef get paid?

An executive chef's salary varies based on experience, location, and establishment size, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually. In high-end restaurants or large hotels, salaries can exceed $100,000, and additional compensation may include bonuses and benefits.

What is the hourly rate for an executive chef?

The hourly rate for an executive chef typically ranges from $20 to $50 per hour, depending on factors such as location, experience, and the size of the establishment. Many executive chefs are salaried, but those paid hourly usually work 40 hours or more per week and may receive overtime pay for additional hours.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Opening Executive Chef, and why are they important?

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 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.

What is the path to becoming an executive chef?

To become an executive chef, individuals typically start as line cooks or kitchen staff, gain experience and culinary skills, and often pursue formal culinary education or certifications. Progression involves advancing to roles like sous chef before reaching the executive chef position, which requires leadership, management skills, and knowledge of kitchen operations.

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 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.

Can you make 100k a year as a chef?

An opening executive chef can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially in high-end restaurants or large hospitality operations, where salaries often include bonuses and profit sharing. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and often working in major markets or upscale establishments. Salary ranges vary based on location, restaurant size, and individual credentials.
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:
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

Piatti San Antonio, Quarry

San Antonio, TX โ€ข On-site

$77K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Executive Chef to join our management team! Are you passionate about culinary excellence? Do you thrive in fast-paced, high-energy environments? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you.
As Executive Chef, you will have the chance to showcase your expertise and creativity in crafting delicious dishes that will delight our guests. You will work closely with our General Manager and VP of Culinary to develop and execute menus that reflect our commitment to excellence and our focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You will have the opportunity to lead a talented and passionate team.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking, high-performance management team that values your talent and dedication. This position requires open availability depending on the needs of the restaurant. Prior experience in an Italian kitchen is a must.
A LITTLE ABOUT US
Established in 1987, Piatti is a fresh take on the neighborhood Italian trattoria offering Italian cuisine, finely-crafted, with authenticity. The soul of the menu is our house-made pasta that we roll, cut and cook by hand everyday. Piatti combines a warm, inviting atmosphere, seamless service and gourmet takeaway experience with Piatti Provisions; a new retail and pasta shop. Whether dining in or taking home, Piatti brings friends and family together.
WHAT WOULD YOU DO AS EXECUTIVE CHEF
The Executive Chef is responsible for the daily operations of the kitchen. They are responsible for both short- and long-range planning including the execution of new menus and pricing, equipment, cost control, and profit contribution to the restaurant. They have overall responsibility for the day to day activities in the kitchen and for maintaining complete control of the kitchen at all times and to command the respect of the kitchen staff. The Executive Chef directly supervises kitchen staff with responsibility for hiring, inspiring, coaching, and performance management. They are responsible for maintaining food safety, sanitary and safety standards in the workplace. They will work hand-in-hand with the General Manager to focus on the vision of the restaurant. In this leadership role, the Executive Chef serves as a role model and mentor to the kitchen staff and must maintain a professional appearance and demeanor at all times.
ARE YOU THE EXECUTIVE CHEF WE'RE LOOKING FOR?
To be successful in the Executive Chef role at our restaurant, several key skills are necessary. First and foremost, strong communication skills are essential. Remaining calm under pressure and making sound decisions quickly is crucial in the fast-paced kitchen environment. You should possess excellent problem-solving skills and good judgment to analyze and resolve any issues that may arise during service. Detail orientation is important to ensure that all dishes are prepared with precision and adhere to our quality standards.
Being able to work closely with vendors and front-of-house staff is necessary, as is the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively. As Executive Chef, you will work in a collaborative team environment, so being a team player and providing support to your colleagues is crucial. Flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to lend a helping hand are all qualities we value.Basic computer skills are required to navigate recipe systems, order supplies, and complete administrative tasks. Additionally, the ability to perform basic mathematical calculations is important for portioning ingredients and managing inventory.
Piatti is a division of Palisades Hospitality, a Northern-California based bespoke hospitality management company that manages and develops a curated portfolio of 20+ hotels and restaurants and provides industry-tailored financial, design and development consulting services. Palisades is committed to creating design-driven, dynamic spaces thoughtfully rooted in their locale and that leave a lasting impact on our guests and in their communities.
Palisades Hospitality offers the following benefits for eligible full time employees:
Health: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Legal, Transportation, Voluntary Benefti Center for Ancillary Coverages like Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Short-Term Disability Insurance, Travel Insurance, Pet Wellness and more!
Retirement: 401k Retirement savings program is available for all full and part time employees over the age of 21
Perks: All employees are eligible to enjoy a Travel + Dining Discount to stay and dine at sister locations. Employees celebrating years of service are recognized with a bonus award for milestone years