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Professional Chef Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Opus 9 Steakhouse

Chef

Williamsburg, VA

$60K - $65K/yr

Chef - Fine Dining RestaurantLead a Culinary Program Defined by Excellence We are seeking an ... Recruit, train, mentor, and develop a professional culinary team. * Foster a culture of ...

Schlesinger's Steakhouse

Chef

Newport News, VA

$55K - $65K/yr

Highly Skilled Chef Are you looking for a fun, dynamic kitchen environment where your culinary ... Paid training and professional development to grow your skills * Employee dining discounts to enjoy ...

Locavore

Sous Chef

Fredericksburg, VA

$50K - $55K/yr

This position will work side by side with chef-owner to create an awesome destination dining ... professional references. More detail about Locavore, please visit -Locavore

MOUNT VERNON COUNTRY CLUB INC

Sous-chef

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

We are seeking a dedicated and talented professional to support our Head Chef in managing kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. This is an excellent ...

Salisbury Country Club

Sous Chef

Midlothian, VA

$50K - $60K/yr

Sous Chef Salisbury Country Club - Midlothian, VA Full-Time | Weekends, Evenings, and Holidays as ... Strong communication skills and professional presence * Willingness to work a flexible schedule ...

Up On The Roof

Executive Chef

Charlottesville, VA

$70K - $97K/yr

... professional, and team-oriented kitchen cultureWhat We're Looking For3-5 years of experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume, upscale dining environmentProven track record ...

UP On The Roof

Executive Chef

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$70K - $97K/yr

... professional, and team-oriented kitchen culture What We're Looking For • 3-5 years of experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume, upscale dining environment • Proven ...

Caboose Brewing Tavern

Sous Chef

Vienna, VA

$66K - $70K/yr

Sous Chef ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES The Sous Chef serves as the second-in-command in the kitchen ... Achieving this standard requires maintaining a positive, collaborative, and professional demeanor ...

Boar's Head Resort

Sous Chef

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate culinary professional to contribute to a ... Key Responsibilities: - Assist the Executive Chef in overseeing daily kitchen operations and ...

Taco Bamba Richmond

Chef

Richmond, VA

Description The Chef is responsible for overseeing daily Back-of-House (BOH) operations and acting ... Maintains professionalism and composure under pressure. * Works effectively as part of a team.

Taco Bamba

Chef

Richmond, VA · On-site

The Chef is responsible for overseeing daily Back-of-House (BOH) operations and acting as Manager ... Maintains professionalism and composure under pressure. * Works effectively as part of a team.

Invited

Sous Chef

Haymarket, VA

$49K - $66K/yr

Interact professionally with members and guests, accommodating changes and last-minute requests as ... A minimum of 2 years of experience as a Sous Chef or in a similar culinary role. * Valid Health and ...

Invited Clubs

Sous Chef

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

Job Summary As a Sous Chef, you are responsible for supporting the daily operations of the kitchen ... Interact professionally with members and guests, accommodating changes and last-minute requests as ...

Invited Clubs

Sous Chef

Haymarket, VA

$46K - $62K/yr

Job Summary As a Sous Chef, you are responsible for supporting the daily operations of the kitchen ... Interact professionally with members and guests, accommodating changes and last-minute requests as ...

Taco Bamba Taqueria

Chef

Richmond, VA · On-site

The Chef is responsible for overseeing daily Back-of-House (BOH) operations and acting as Manager ... Maintains professionalism and composure under pressure. * Works effectively as part of a team.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsProfessional Chef JobsProfessional Chef Jobs in Virginia

Professional Chef information

See Virginia salary details

$28.3K

$63.4K

$94.2K

How much do professional chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional chef in Virginia is $63,445.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,600.00 and $74,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are professional chefs?

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.

How much money does a professional chef make?

The average salary for a professional chef varies by experience, location, and establishment, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $70,000 annually. Executive chefs and those with specialized skills or working in high-end restaurants can earn over $100,000 per year.

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 highest paid chef job?

The highest paid chef roles are executive chefs, head chefs, or culinary directors in high-end restaurants, luxury hotels, or private estates, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often involve managing large teams and budgets.

What is the highest paying type of chef?

Executive chefs, head chefs, or culinary directors typically earn the highest salaries among chefs, often exceeding six figures, especially in upscale restaurants or hotel chains. Specialized roles such as pastry chefs or chefs with advanced certifications and extensive experience can also command high pay, particularly in high-end establishments or managerial positions.

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, and why are they important?

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 does a professional chef earn?

A professional chef's earnings vary based on experience, location, and establishment type, but the median annual salary in many regions ranges from $30,000 to $60,000. Executive chefs and those working in high-end restaurants or hotels can earn significantly more, often exceeding $70,000 annually. Skills such as menu planning, kitchen management, and culinary certifications can influence earning potential.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Professional Chef jobs in Virginia? For Professional Chef jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Professional Chef jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Chef jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Professional Chef jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Professional Chef job openings:
Professional Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Chef job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,445 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
Chef

Chef

Opus 9 Steakhouse

Williamsburg, VA

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Chef – Fine Dining RestaurantLead a Culinary Program Defined by Excellence

We are seeking an accomplished Experienced Chef to lead the culinary operations of an upscale fine dining restaurant where exceptional ingredients, meticulous execution, and elevated guest experiences are the foundation of our success.

This opportunity is ideal for a chef who combines refined culinary expertise with strong operational leadership. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining the highest standards of quality, developing and mentoring a talented kitchen team, and driving both culinary innovation and financial performance.

If you are passionate about craftsmanship, hospitality, and building a culture of excellence, we invite you to join our team.

Position Overview

As Executive Chef, you will oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and an exceptional dining experience for every guest. You will play a key role in menu development, team leadership, cost management, and the continued evolution of our culinary program.


Key Responsibilities
  • Direct and oversee all kitchen operations in a high-end dining environment.
  • Develop and execute seasonal menus, chef features, tasting experiences, and specialty offerings.
  • Ensure exceptional food quality, consistency, and presentation standards across every service.
  • Manage food costs, labor expenses, inventory controls, and purchasing strategies to achieve financial objectives.
  • Establish and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers while ensuring product quality and consistency.
  • Recruit, train, mentor, and develop a professional culinary team.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
  • Implement and maintain efficient systems for preparation, service execution, sanitation, and quality control.
  • Ensure full compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
  • Collaborate with ownership and leadership on business strategy, menu development, guest satisfaction initiatives, and long-term growth.

Qualifications
  • Proven success as an Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef in a fine dining, luxury hospitality, or upscale restaurant environment.
  • Strong knowledge of classical culinary foundations and contemporary cooking techniques.
  • Demonstrated expertise in food cost management, labor controls, inventory systems, and kitchen financial performance.
  • Experience leading, coaching, and developing high-performing culinary teams.
  • Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to thrive in a demanding, fast-paced environment while maintaining composure and excellence.
  • Passion for hospitality, culinary innovation, and operational excellence.

Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Performance-based bonus opportunities
  • Health and dental insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Employee dining privileges
  • Professional growth and leadership development opportunities
  • Creative influence within an established, quality-driven concept
  • Supportive ownership team committed to long-term success

Join Our Team

This is an opportunity to lead a respected culinary operation where quality, professionalism, and guest experience are paramount. If you are a driven culinary leader seeking a role that values both artistry and business acumen, we encourage you to apply.

We look forward to meeting chefs who are ready to make a lasting impact and help shape the next chapter of our restaurant's success.

Location: Williamsburg, VA

We fully embrace the fine dining experience from quality of steakhouse fare to the diversity of the wine list, casual elegance, club-like lounge sophistication, ambiance, private dining accommodations and first class service.
We offer a diverse selection of fine wine, hand-picked to compliment dinner choices.