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Professional Chef Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

... professional development of kitchen staff -Menu development - keep current in menu trends and submit items as requested for menu changes Responsibilities: -Scheduling and coordination of kitchen ...

Sous Chef

Springfield, IL · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

... professional development of kitchen staff -Menu development - keep current in menu trends and submit items as requested for menu changes Responsibilities: -Scheduling and coordination of kitchen ...

Consistently follow portion control and presentation specifications set by the Executive Chef ... Opportunities for growth and professional development. * A supportive and engaging work environment.

... chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ... and healthcare professionals. * Offers alternatives to menu as allowed on prescribed diet in ...

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Professional Chef information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$28.2K

$63.4K

$94.2K

How much do professional chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional chef in Springfield, IL is $63,425.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,600.00 and $74,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying chef job?

The highest paying chef jobs are typically executive chef or head chef positions in high-end restaurants, luxury hotels, or private clubs, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. Specialized roles such as culinary directors or chefs with extensive experience and advanced certifications can earn even higher compensation, especially in major metropolitan areas or international settings.

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.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

High-paying jobs for professional chefs can reach $2,000 per day, typically in roles such as executive chef, private chef for high-net-worth individuals, or culinary director in luxury hotels and resorts. These positions often require extensive experience, specialized skills, and sometimes certifications, and may involve long or irregular hours. Such roles are usually found in high-end hospitality environments or private settings with demanding clients.

What's the average pay for a professional chef?

The average salary for a professional chef varies by experience, location, and establishment but typically ranges from $30,000 to $60,000 annually. Executive chefs and those with specialized skills or working in high-end restaurants can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $70,000 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 paying type of chef?

Executive chefs, head chefs, or culinary directors typically earn the highest salaries among chefs, often exceeding $70,000 annually, especially in high-end restaurants or luxury hotels. Specialized roles such as pastry chefs or chefs with advanced certifications and extensive experience can also command higher wages, particularly in upscale or corporate settings.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Professional Chef jobs in Springfield, IL? For Professional Chef jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Professional Chef jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Chef jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Professional Chef jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Professional Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Professional Chef job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 97% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,425 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
Sous Chef

Sous Chef

Bella Milano

Springfield, IL

$45K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, want to really cook? Bella Milano is accepting applications from highly-energetic, take charge individuals who want an opportunity to utilize their skills while continuing to learn and grow in a thriving upscale, full service restaurant environment!  Bella Milano offers a unique, fine casual cuisine in a contemporary yet relaxed atmosphere with many exciting menu selections.


Apply now if you think you have what it takes to be part of our growing team.


Goals:

-Food Quality – maintain highest level of food quality

-Sanitation – Ensure kitchen is clean at all times and able to pass Inspections from Health Inspectors and Executive Team

-Labor Cost – Manage kitchen labor to obtain goals, and review practices to ensure most efficient use of labor dollars

-Food Cost – Ensure kitchen staff is using proper devices and measurements for all food service related items. Manage kitchen staff to achieve food cost goals

-Training – all kitchen staff must be fully trained at their station to follow recipe and portioning guidelines

-Evaluate food products to ensure that quality standards are being consistently attained.

-Provide professional development of kitchen staff

-Menu development – keep current in menu trends and submit items as requested for menu changes


Responsibilities:

-Scheduling and coordination of kitchen staff

-Staff for maximum productivity and high standards of quality

-Control labor costs to achieve maximum profitability

-Establish controls to minimize food and supply, waste and theft

-Train employees on best practices regarding safety, sanitation and accident prevention

-Support Safe work habits and a safe working environment at all times

-Consult with GM/AGM regarding menus and offerings for special events

-Cooks or directly supervise items that require skillful preparation

-Evaluate products on quality and price

-Provide communication to Director of Store Operations on policies and procedures

-Establish and maintain a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule for entire kitchen and equipment

-Ensures kitchen managers are achieving their goals and following their responsibilities

-Interview, select, train, supervise, counsel and discipline all employees in Kitchen

-Ensure positive attitudes and professionalism from all staff

-Ensure all kitchen employees adhere to uniform, grooming and appearance standards

-Interact positively with all restaurant staff and guests to promote a team effort and maintain a positive and professional work environment

-Produce a high volume of work in a timely manner, that is accurate, complete and of high quality

-Come to work on-time and regularly

-Be available for phone calls 24/7

-Ability to work a varying schedule to include mornings, days, evenings, holidays and extended hours

-Ability to type and use e-mail and other technologies as assigned

-Ability to write and cost out recipes

-Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.

-Proficient in the following restaurant functions: food planning and preparation, purchasing, sanitation, security, company policies and procedures, personnel management, recordkeeping, recipe development, and preparation of reports

-Perform other duties as directed


Compensation and Benefits:

- Salary based on previous work experience and knowledge

- Monthly Bonuses with attainable goals

- Yearly Bonus where you can earn up to 10% of your salary as a bonus

- Vacation - immediately start accruing vacation days

- Health Insurance - competitive plans, we pay 50% of your cost

- Total Compensation including bonus ranges $45,000 to $55,000 based on experience and knowledge


Physical Requirements:

-Ability to speak and hear

-Close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus

-Constant standing with some walking

-Be able to work in a standing position for long periods of time (up to 8 hours)

-Be able to reach, bend, stoop and frequently lift up to 35 pounds and occasionally lift/move 50 pounds

-Continual use of manual dexterity and gross motor skills with frequent use of bi-manual dexterity and fine motor skills


Communication:

-Monthly Store Manager meetings

-E-mail

-Phone

-Google Calendar


Licenses, Certificates, Insurance:

-Food Sanitation License

-Drivers License

-Auto Insurance


COVID-19 considerations:

Bella Milano follows all CDC guidelines included but not limited to daily health and temperature screenings of all employees.

Bella Milano is contemporary Italian with old world flavor. Join us for a beautiful meal. We feature a full bar, private rooms, a patio, and offer catering.