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Professional Chef Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Washington, VA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Sous Chef Location: Central VA Salary: $75,000-$85,000 Benefits: MDV, PTO, 401(k), relocation ... of professional culinary experience, preferably in Michelin-level kitchens - Culinary degree ...

Chef

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Chef

Newport News, VA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

Skills and Qualifications: - Proven experience as a Pantry Chef or similar role in a professional kitchen. - Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards. - Strong organizational skills and ...

Pantry Chef

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Skills and Qualifications: - Proven experience as a Pantry Chef or similar role in a professional kitchen. - Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards. - Strong organizational skills and ...

Pantry Chef

Norfolk, VA

$16 - $19.25/hr

Skills and Qualifications: - Proven experience as a Pantry Chef or similar role in a professional kitchen. - Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards. - Strong organizational skills and ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Sous Chef

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

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 ...

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.

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.

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Professional Chef information

See Virginia salary details

$28.3K

$63.4K

$94.2K

How much do professional chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 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 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Virginia 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:
Infographic showing various Professional Chef job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,445 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Sous Chef

the Chef Agency

Washington, VA • On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Sous Chef
Location: Central VA
Salary: $75,000-$85,000
Benefits: MDV, PTO, 401(k), relocation assistance
Property Description: Award-winning luxury restaurant and inn in the Blue Ridge foothills known for world-class fine dining and exceptional guest experiences.
Qualifications:
- Strong fundamental skills in classical cooking techniques and fine-dining preparation
- Minimum 5 years of professional culinary experience, preferably in Michelin-level kitchens
- Culinary degree preferred or equivalent advanced kitchen leadership experience
Requirements:
- Lead and execute evening service, including plating, quality control, and brigade oversight
- Manage ordering, inventory, staff training, and kitchen organization for PM operations
- Valid U.S. work visa required (no sponsorship available)

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About Chef Agency

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

THE MOST TALENTED RECRUITING TEAM IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY. With our support, you’ll have exclusive access to top-tier clients, a robust candidate database, insight from industry experts, and the necessary training and tools needed to build your book of business. Reach out today, and create your own work-life balance while achieving success in the recruiting world.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

2013

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