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Professional Chef Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Hilton Knoxville

Cook

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

You will report to the Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager. * A career as a cook can lead to opportunities ... A warm, professional demeanor that reflects HVMG's Culture of Excellence by showing a warm smile ...

Hilton Knoxville

Cook

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

You will report to the Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager. * A career as a cook can lead to opportunities ... A warm, professional demeanor that reflects HVMG's Culture of Excellence by showing a warm smile ...

Hilton Knoxville

Pastry Assistant

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

You will report to the Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager. * A career as a Pastry Assistant can lead to ... A warm, professional demeanor that reflects HVMG's Culture of Excellence by showing a warm smile ...

BLACKBERRY FARM

Line Cook - Blackberry Farm

Walland, TN · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Other duties may be assigned. • Food preparation tasks as assigned by the Sous Chefs, including ... Professional kitchen • May occasionally be asked to go outside in all weather conditions

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All JobsProfessional Chef JobsProfessional Chef Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Professional Chef information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$27.2K

$61.2K

$90.8K

How much do professional chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional chef in Oak Ridge, TN is $61,181.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,800.00 and $71,700.00 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 Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Professional Chef jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Professional Chef job openings:
Professional Chef jobs near you

Cook

Hilton Knoxville

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Cook

As a Cook, you will prepare high-quality meals in accordance with standardized recipes and presentation guidelines. You’ll work closely with the culinary team to ensure timely, safe, and delicious food service for guests. This role requires attention to detail, efficiency, and a passion for hospitality in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

Schedule: 

We have AM & PM Shift available.

AM: times vary, but anywhere from 5AM to 2PM or 6AM to 3PM 

PM: 2PM to 11PM or 3PM to 12AM

Key Responsibilities
  • You will be the culinary talent behind our hotel's exceptional dining experiences, preparing delicious and fresh meals that delight our guests.
  • Your daily tasks will include preparing menu items, ensuring food safety and quality standards, and maintaining a clean and organized kitchen.
  • You will report to the Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager.
  • A career as a cook can lead to opportunities as a line cook, sous chef, or even executive chef within the hospitality industry.
Education & Experience

Hotel experience is always a plus! Applicants should have: 

  • A combination of education and experience
What You’ll Need to Succeed
  • Eligible to work in the United States
  • Sufficient education and/or literacy needed to identify and read product labels and to communicate with guests about job-related needs.
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel, and lift as required—with or without reasonable accommodations
  • Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays if needed
  • A warm, professional demeanor that reflects HVMG’s Culture of Excellence by showing a warm smile, friendly personality, and positive attitude.

This position may require a varied schedule, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.  Please share your scheduling needs.


Why Our Associates Love HVMG

  • Career growth opportunities across our nationwide portfolio
  • Flexible scheduling 
  • Access up to 40% of your earned wages before payday with PayActive
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
  • Full healthcare benefits: medical, dental, and vision
  • 401(k) with guaranteed 4% match and no vesting period
  • Exclusive hotel and food & beverage discounts
About HVMG

Our Be Excellent culture is more than just words on a website -- we live and breathe it. As one associate said in an anonymous survey, "This is the best management company I've ever worked for. They walk the talk from the corporate office to the field."
We believe that the hotel business is one of the few industries in which successful career paths can start anywhere on the org chart. You control your destiny, and, if our executives are any indication, today's dishwasher can be tomorrow's Senior Vice President.

The above job description is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities of the position, nor should it be construed as a contract.

HVMG  is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any basis prohibited by federal, state, or local laws. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.

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