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Professional Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Head Chef

Iowa City, IA ยท On-site

That problem is a lack of consistency and professionalism in the kitchen. With a focus on great food and personal service, we've remained true to our roots. Today, the chefs of Upper Crust Food ...

Head Chef

Iowa City, IA ยท On-site

That problem is a lack of consistency and professionalism in the kitchen. With a focus on great food and personal service, we've remained true to our roots. Today, the chefs of Upper Crust Food ...

Lucky's Sous Chef

Tama, IA ยท On-site

$22.66/hr

Document and report to Executive Chef incidents-of-interest involving F&B employees and customers ... Report to work on time and as required in professional attire, display a high level of personal ...

Chef De Partie

Carter Lake, IA ยท On-site

$18.25 - $23/hr

Help the Chef when asked to do so. Prepare food as per order given by Executive Chef/Sous Chef ... At least 1 year of professional experience on a similar position Technical skills: Excellent use of ...

Executive Sous Chef Experienced culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment ... Maintain professionalism and strong communication with guests, associates, and leaders * Assist ...

Executive Sous Chef

Coralville, IA ยท On-site

$60K/yr

Executive Sous Chef Experienced culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment ... Maintain professionalism and strong communication with guests, associates, and leaders * Assist ...

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$51K - $56K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity for an energetic, entrepreneurial Culinary professional. Key Responsibilities: * Assists the Executive Chef with managing cost controls and control expenditures for ...

Chef - PRN

Nevada, IA ยท On-site

Join us at Story County Medical Center as a CHEF within our Senior Care Center! Located in Nevada ... Are you looking for a workplace that prioritizes your well-being and supports your professional ...

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$51K - $56K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity for an energetic, entrepreneurial Culinary professional. Key Responsibilities: * Assists the Executive Chef with managing cost controls and control expenditures for ...

This is an exciting opportunity for an energetic, entrepreneurial Culinary professional. Key Responsibilities: * Assists the Executive Chef with managing cost controls and control expenditures for ...

Join us at Story County Medical Center as a CHEF within our Senior Care Center! Located in Nevada ... Are you looking for a workplace that prioritizes your well-being and supports your professional ...

F&B Sous Chef

Tama, IA ยท On-site

$22.66/hr

Document and report to Executive Chef incidents-of-interest involving F&B employees and customers ... Report to work on time and as required in professional attire, display a high level of personal ...

Sous Chef

Carter Lake, IA ยท On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

SUMMARY The Sous Chef leads the culinary line in preparing meals to meet the requests of our guests ... Maintains a high level of confidentiality and professionalism. * Responds to common inquiries or ...

Executive Chef

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$69K - $96K/yr

EXECUTIVE CHEF Reports to: General Manager, position is exempt WHO WE ARE Surety Hotel is managed ... a hospitality operation professional is responsible for. Your balance of creative and ...

New

Chef As our Chef, you'll play a key role in supporting the health, happiness, and daily experience ... innovative professionals seeking a rewarding career with flexible scheduling, competitive ...

Showing results 21-40

Professional Chef information

See Iowa salary details

$26.8K

$60.1K

$89.2K

How much do professional chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional chef in Iowa is $60,108.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $70,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional chef?

Professional chefs are trained culinary experts who prepare, cook, and present food in restaurants, hotels, or other food establishments. They are responsible for menu planning, ingredient selection, and ensuring the quality and consistency of dishes. Chefs often manage kitchen staff, maintain food safety standards, and stay updated with culinary trends. Their skills are developed through formal education, apprenticeships, and hands-on experience in the kitchen.

What are some common challenges professional chefs face in a busy kitchen, and how can they effectively manage them?

Professional Chefs often encounter challenges such as high-pressure environments, time management issues during peak hours, and coordinating with a diverse kitchen staff. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to delegate tasks are crucial for maintaining smooth operations. Additionally, staying adaptable and calm under pressure helps chefs ensure quality and consistency in dishes, even during the busiest service periods.

What is the difference between Professional Chef vs Cook?

AspectProfessional ChefCook
CredentialsFormal culinary training or certifications often requiredMinimal formal training, on-the-job learning common
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, hotelsRestaurants, catering, institutional kitchens
Job ResponsibilitiesMenu planning, supervising kitchen staff, creating dishesPreparing ingredients, cooking dishes as instructed
Industry UsageHigh-level culinary roles, often with leadership dutiesEntry-level or supporting roles in food preparation

The main difference between a Professional Chef and a Cook lies in their responsibilities, training, and roles within the culinary industry. Professional Chefs typically have formal training and oversee kitchen operations, while Cooks focus on food preparation and cooking under supervision. Both roles are essential, but the Chef usually holds a higher level of expertise and leadership.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional chef?

To thrive as a Professional Chef, you need comprehensive culinary expertise, formal culinary training or certification, and strong knowledge of food safety and kitchen operations. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and specialized culinary tools is essential. Creativity, leadership, time management, and effective communication distinguish outstanding chefs in high-pressure environments. These skills ensure consistent food quality, efficient kitchen operations, and a positive dining experience for guests.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Professional Chef jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Professional Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Professional Chef job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,108 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Executive Sous Chef - Local Favorite - Benefits + Bonuses

Gecko Hospitality

Grimes, IA โ€ข On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Executive Sous Chef

Immediate Need - Iowa Favorite

Des Moines


Our Company is actively seeking the best possible Sous Chef in the Des Moines, area! In the past 15 years we have been redefining outstanding food and service in the industry. We take pride in every aspect of our restaurants, from the décor to the made-from-scratch entrees. Our goal is to make everyone feel welcome for any occasion. With an extensive wine list and an evolving menu, we’ ve become a favorite place to eat among our restaurants across the Midwest. We’ve received numerous customer service awards over the years, and our success wouldn’t have been possible without our team members. To be the Sous Chef of our Des Moines location, apply today by sending your updated resume to jcameron@geckohospitality.com!



Title of Position: Sous Chef

Job Description: As our Sous Chef you will be responsible for leading the culinary personnel and maintaining a professional and organized kitchen. Ensuring excellent food quality and preparation will be a priority as the Sous Chef. The Sous Chef will report vital information directly to the Executive Chef. If there are occasions when the Executive Chef is unable to work, the Sous Chef assumes all duties normally designated to the Executive Chef.


The Sous Chef will assist in selecting, training and coaching the culinary staff. A Sous Chef often acts as the intermediary between the front and back of the house, so strong leadership and communication abilities are a must. Our ideal candidate will have outstanding problem-solving abilities and the ability to quickly adjust to changing situations. Our Sous Chef will work closely with the Executive Chef and become familiar with administrative duties and cost control practices to expand knowledge and the ability to grow your career.


Benefits:

  • 401k
  • Performance Based Incentives
  • Career Advancement
  • Paid Vacation
  • Competitive Pay
  • Work & Life Balance
  • Apply today to learn more about this Sous Chef position!


Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 2+ years current experience as a Sous Chef in a high volume (over $3m per year in sales) Full Service or Upscale Casual concept
  • Ability to maintain high levels of food quality, consistency, and hygiene
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • Hands-on with hiring, training, and developing hourly employees
  • Excellent work ethic and drive to succeed
  • Sous Chef must be proficient with financials (P&L's, inventory, food/labor cost, etc.)


Apply Now - Sous Chef located in Des Moines, Iowa! Simply send your updated resume to jcameron@geckohospitality.com to begin interviewing for this fabulous opportunity.