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Plant Based Chef Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Elizabeth's

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$81K - $111K/yr

Known for its intimate, candlelit atmosphere and thoughtfully crafted plant-based tasting menus ... We are looking for a Chef who takes a holistic approach to hospitality, seeing service and training ...

New CHG US Holdings LLC

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

EXECUTIVE CHEF We are seeking an entrepreneurial minded Executive Chef to lead the day-to-day ... Passion for and knowledge of plant-based ingredients preferred, but we're happy to show you the way!

New CHG US Holdings LLC

Sous Chef

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$53K - $72K/yr

SOUS CHEF We are seeking a driven and passionate Sous Chef to join our tight-knit leadership team ... Passion for and knowledge of plant-based ingredients preferred, but we're happy to show you the way!

All JobsPlant Based Chef JobsPlant Based Chef Jobs in Washington

Plant Based Chef information

See Washington salary details

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$20

$30

How much do plant based chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant based chef in Washington is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plant based chef?

A Plant Based Chef is a culinary professional who specializes in preparing dishes that are made entirely from plant-derived ingredients. This means they focus on fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, avoiding all animal products such as meat, dairy, and eggs. Plant Based Chefs are skilled in creating flavorful, nutritious, and visually appealing meals that cater to vegan, vegetarian, and health-conscious diners. They often work in restaurants, catering companies, or wellness retreats, and may also develop recipes for cookbooks or food brands.

What are some common challenges plant based chefs face when developing new menu items?

Plant-based chefs often encounter challenges such as sourcing high-quality, seasonal ingredients and ensuring the nutritional balance of dishes without animal products. Creating innovative flavors and textures to appeal to a broad audience while maintaining the integrity of plant-based cuisine can also be demanding. Additionally, chefs must stay updated on dietary trends and allergens, and frequently collaborate with nutritionists and kitchen staff to refine recipes that meet both taste and dietary requirements.

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

To thrive as a Plant Based Chef, you need expertise in plant-based culinary techniques, nutrition, and menu development, often supported by culinary training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, recipe management software, and food safety standards is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and strong teamwork skills help you innovate and collaborate effectively in dynamic kitchen environments. These skills ensure the delivery of delicious, healthful, and visually appealing plant-based dishes that meet customer expectations and dietary needs.

What is the difference between Plant Based Chef vs Vegetarian Chef?

AspectPlant Based ChefVegetarian Chef
CredentialsCooking certifications, plant-based nutrition knowledgeCooking certifications, vegetarian nutrition knowledge
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, catering, health-focused establishmentsRestaurants, cafes, catering services
Industry UsageSpecializes in vegan and plant-based cuisinePrepares vegetarian dishes, may include eggs and dairy

The main difference is that a Plant Based Chef focuses exclusively on vegan, plant-based dishes, avoiding all animal products, while a Vegetarian Chef prepares dishes that may include eggs and dairy but exclude meat. Both roles require culinary skills and certifications, but their menu focus and dietary restrictions differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Plant Based Chef jobs in Washington?

For Plant Based Chef jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plant Based Chef jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Plant Based Chef jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Plant Based Chef jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Plant Based Chef job openings:

Plant Based Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Based Chef job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,964 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Hourly Sous Chef I - Washington D.C, West End

Life Alive Cafe, LLC.

Washington, DC

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

About Us

Life Alive aims to energize the vitality of all living beings and our planet. We make delicious, beautiful, plant-based food and beverages in a unique, quick-service cafe, and are looking for dynamic, ambitious team members ready to jump in and grow. We value interconnectedness, participation, integrity, pleasure, and empathy — and most importantly, we value you for you.

The Role

The Sous Chef Level I supports the Sous Chef Level II, General Manager and/or Culinary Assistant General Manager in supporting the culinary operations of the cafe. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient, smooth operation of the kitchen and maintaining our rigorous food standards.

Key Responsibilities
  • Culinary Execution & Quality Control:
    • Complete the daily prep list and assigned culinary projects.
    • Prepare food items according to established recipes and quality standards.
    • Ensure the consistency and quality of all food items leaving the kitchen.
    • Conduct regular taste tests to uphold flavor profiles and presentation standards.
  • Operations & Kitchen Management:
    • Maintain a fully stocked, clean, and organized kitchen workspace.
    • Assist with kitchen ordering procedures as needed.
    • Maintain active communication with the Front of House team to monitor prepped inventory and adjust production levels in real-time.
  • Team Leadership & Development:
    • Assist in training and developing Back of House team members.
  • Cleanliness & Safety Compliance:
    • Ensure strict compliance with all health and safety regulations, including proper food handling, temperature logging, and storage.
Our Sous Chef Level I is someone who: 
  • Knowledgeable in kitchen operations and scratch-cooking food preparation techniques.
  • Ability to work efficiently in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent organizational, leadership, and attention-to-detail skills.
  • Passionate about our mission to energize the vitality of all living beings and our planet.
Perks & Benefits
  • 70% meal discount and free/discounted Yoga.
  • Health, dental, and vision coverage (for full-time employees).
  • Free Mental Health Support (for full-time employees).
  • 401(k) retirement plan with a vesting match.
  • Transportation benefits.
  • Education & professional development opportunities (e.g., culinary training, superfood education, wellness lifestyle, resume building).
  • Flexible schedule supporting your lifestyle and personal goals.


Life Alive is an equal-opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. We look forward to welcoming a dynamic leader who will contribute to our mission of energizing the vitality of all living beings and our planet through plant-based cuisine and sustainable practices.We strive to foster a community where all feel welcome, safe, and valued. We embrace all differences of age, sexual orientation, gender and its expression, race, culture and ethnicity, national origin, mental and physical health and ability, religious background, marital status, family structure, citizenship, education, and military or veterans’ status. Life Alive invites you to bring your whole self to work.

Please note that Life Alive is an E-Verify employer. Please review the Right to Work Poster from Department of Justice's Immigrant and Employee Rights Section.