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Professional Chef Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD

$62K - $75K/yr

$62000 per year - $75000 per year The Sous Chef is responsible for supporting the Executive Chef in leading a team of culinary professionals that deliver high-quality, great-tasting food; proper food ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD · On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

$62000 per year - $75000 per year The Sous Chef is responsible for supporting the Executive Chef in leading a team of culinary professionals that deliver high-quality, great-tasting food; proper food ...

Titan Hospitality Group

Sous Chef

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Managing kitchen staff. • The Sous Chef will be tasked with ensuring all kitchen workers are performing at the level required by a professional kitchen, and may come up with incentives to ensure ...

Mi Vida District Wharf

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$60K - $80K/yr

Qualifications: * 5+ years of professional kitchen experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role * Previous experience as a Sous Chef or Chef de Cuisine preferred * Strong background in ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD · On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

$62000 per year - $75000 per year The Sous Chef is responsible for supporting the Executive Chef in leading a team of culinary professionals that deliver high-quality, great-tasting food; proper food ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD · On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

$62000 per year - $75000 per year The Sous Chef is responsible for supporting the Executive Chef in leading a team of culinary professionals that deliver high-quality, great-tasting food; proper food ...

The Group NYC

Sushi Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

A successful chef is someone who is passionate about sushi, sake, Japanese culture, and philosophy ... Polished personal presentation with professional communication skills * Must be able to walk, stand ...

Mi Vida District Wharf

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$56K - $76K/yr

Qualifications: * 5+ years of professional kitchen experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role * Previous experience as a Sous Chef or Chef de Cuisine preferred * Strong background in ...

The Group Hospitality

Sushi Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$30/hr

A successful chef is someone who is passionate about sushi, sake, Japanese culture, and philosophy ... Polished personal presentation with professional communication skills * Must be able to walk, stand ...

Knead Hospitality

Sous Chef

National Harbor, MD · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Sous Chef - Succotash National Harbor We are seeking a passionate and talented Sous Chef for ... You'll work closely with an amazing team of culinary professionals, contributing to an innovative ...

Succotash National Harbor

Sous Chef

Oxon Hill, MD

$60K - $75K/yr

Sous Chef - Succotash National Harbor We are seeking a passionate and talented Sous Chef for ... You'll work closely with an amazing team of culinary professionals, contributing to an innovative ...

Meriwether Godsey, Inc.

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

High levels of professionalism and strong leadership skills * Excellent communication and good ... Reliable Transportation What the Sous Chef will get: * Competitive Pay, Meals, Uniforms, Training ...

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 ...

Primrose

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$50K - $60K/yr

We seek a professional and organized Sous Chef with great leadership skills and cooking ability. The Sous Chef will assist with menu design, preparation, and execution. A successful candidate will be ...

Elizabeth's

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$110K - $120K/yr

Our ideal candidate has strong ethics, a high standard of professional conduct, and approaches their daily duties with enthusiasm and respect for their role. We are looking for a Chef who takes a ...

José Andrés Group

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

Sous Chef Reports To: Chef de Cuisine / Executive Chef Department: Back of House - Culinary ... Requirements Required Qualifications * 3-5+ years of professional kitchen experience with 1-2+ ...

GLOBAL TAPAS LLC

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$56K - $76K/yr

Sous Chef Reports To: Chef de Cuisine / Executive Chef Department: Back of House - Culinary ... Requirements Required Qualifications * 3-5+ years of professional kitchen experience with 1-2+ ...

Jose Andres Group

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

Sous Chef Reports To: Chef de Cuisine / Executive Chef Department: Back of House - Culinary ... Required Qualifications * 3-5+ years of professional kitchen experience with 1-2+ years as a lead ...

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All JobsProfessional Chef JobsProfessional Chef Jobs in Washington

Professional Chef information

See Washington salary details

$32.3K

$72.5K

$107.6K

How much do professional chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional chef in Washington is $72,480.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,600.00 and $84,900.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Professional Chef jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Professional Chef job openings:
Professional Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Chef job openings in Washington 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 $72,480 per year, or $34.8 per hour.

Sous Chef

Seasons 52

North Bethesda, MD

$62K - $75K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Seasons 52 rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

$62000 per year - $75000 per year


The Sous Chef is responsible for supporting the Executive Chef in leading a team of culinary professionals that deliver high-quality, great-tasting food; proper food safety and sanitation procedures, and profitability. The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ensure menu items are executed with excellence in the restaurant. Additionally, the Sous Chef supports managing quality in all aspects of their job. 


Job Requirements 

  • Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant 
  • Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine knowledge, and service 
  • Proven ability to develop team 
  • Knowledge of systems, methods, and processes that contribute to great execution 
  • Stable job history which demonstrates upward career progression


  • Restaurant Managers receive competitive salary & quarterly bonus eligibility
  • Eligibility for medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Company-paid Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance
  • 2 weeks paid vacations and up to 5 flex days in your first year
  • Paid Family and Medical Leave (up to 2 weeks after 1 year of service)
  • State Benefits Overview
  • After one year of service

∙ Company 401(k) with a match up to 120% on the first 6% of salary

∙ Company paid Retirement Plus Benefits

∙Darden Employee Stock Purchase program

  • Discount program for 1,000 of merchants

What Seasons 52 employees say

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