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Professional Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$70K - $97K/yr

Must be a role model for all cooking positions and cooking skill sets adhering to professional chef standards and Ruth's Chris Steak House specs. Additional Info: We are an equal opportunity employer ...

Executive Chef

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Must be a role model for all cooking positions and cooking skill sets adhering to professional chef standards and Ruth's Chris Steak House specs. Additional Info: We are an equal opportunity employer ...

Executive Chef

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Must be a role model for all cooking positions and cooking skill sets adhering to professional chef standards and Ruth's Chris Steak House specs. Additional Info: We are an equal opportunity employer ...

Executive Chef

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Must be a role model for all cooking positions and cooking skill sets adhering to professional chef standards and Ruth's Chris Steak House specs. Additional Info: We are an equal opportunity employer ...

Executive Chef

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Must be a role model for all cooking positions and cooking skill sets adhering to professional chef standards and Ruth's Chris Steak House specs. Additional Info: We are an equal opportunity employer ...

The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, highly motivated professional chef with a strong sense of hospitality, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and a true passion for fine service ...

Chef de cuisine

Columbus, GA · On-site

$59K - $81K/yr

Culinary degree or professional chef training preferred; relevant work experience in a similar role strongly valued. * Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by club ...

Executive Chef

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$66K - $92K/yr

The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, highly motivated professional chef who specializes in elevated, fine dining fish/seafood creations with a strong sense of hospitality, excellent ...

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Executive Chef

Tucson, AZ

$67K - $93K/yr

Executive Chef - Full-Time, On-Site | Award-Winning Luxury Life Plan Community Step into a ... Build positive relationships with residents and respond to feedback professionally. * Align team ...

Chef De Cuisine

Tulsa, OK

$60K - $83K/yr

Preferred Education and Experience o High School Diploma or equivalency determined by management. o At least three years of previous professional chef experience in fine dining. o Culinary Arts ...

Chef De Cuisine

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$60K - $83K/yr

Preferred Education and Experience o High School Diploma or equivalency determined by management. o At least three years of previous professional chef experience in fine dining. o Culinary Arts ...

Chef De Cuisine

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$60K - $83K/yr

Preferred Education and Experience o High School Diploma or equivalency determined by management. o At least three years of previous professional chef experience in fine dining. o Culinary Arts ...

Proven experience as a professional chef in a commercial kitchen setting. * Knowledge of food safety standards and certifications (e.g., ServSafe or equivalent). * Ability to manage kitchen staff and ...

Proven experience as a professional chef in a commercial kitchen setting. * Knowledge of food safety standards and certifications (e.g., ServSafe or equivalent). * Ability to manage kitchen staff and ...

Sous Chef

Girdwood, AK · On-site

$28/hr

Are you a seasoned professional chef looking to run your own kitchen? Do you thrive in mentoring and leading a streamlined and dynamic culinary team? If you're looking to mentor colleagues and ...

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Professional Chef information

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$28.5K

$64K

$95K

How much do professional chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional chef in the United States is $63,994.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $75,000.00 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.
More about Professional Chef jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional Chef jobs? Cities with the most Professional Chef job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs? The most popular types of Chef jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Chef jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Chef jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Professional Chef jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Chef jobs are:
Infographic showing various Professional Chef job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,994 per year, or $30.8 per hour.
Executive Chef

$70K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Ruth's Chris Steak House rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 86 rated restaurants


Job description

Description:
Now Hiring: Executive Chef
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Where legendary flavor meets refined leadership.
Ruth's Chris Steak House is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and passionate Executive Chef to lead our kitchen with precision, creativity, and commitment to excellence.
About Us
Ruth's Chris is a leader in the fine-dining industry, known for serving the highest quality USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and handcrafted sides, all delivered with signature sizzle and world-class hospitality.
Position Summary
As Executive Chef, you will oversee all kitchen operations, lead and develop the culinary team, ensure impeccable food quality and presentation, and uphold our standards of excellence. We're looking for a chef who brings not just skill, but a love for hospitality and a drive to lead by example.
Apply here: Ruth's Chris Careers
Why Join Us?
• Competitive Pay + Weekly Paycheck
• Monthly Bonus Opportunities
• PTO & Health Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Employee Discount & Manager Meals
• Employee Assistance Program
What You'll Do:
• Lead and inspire the back-of-house team
• Ensure consistent, high-quality food preparation and execution
• Manage inventory, food cost, labor, and kitchen budgets
• Enforce food safety, cleanliness, and sanitation standards
• Collaborate on menu development and seasonal features
• Maintain the integrity of the Ruth's Chris brand in every dish served
What We're Looking For:
• Minimum 3 years of leadership in a high-volume, fine-dining kitchen
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training preferred
• Proven ability to lead and develop a team
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Passion for quality, consistency, and guest satisfaction
Apply here: Ruth's Chris Careers
Requirements:
Qualified candidates must demonstrate good organization and time management skills. Must be a role model for all cooking positions and cooking skill sets adhering to professional chef standards and Ruth's Chris Steak House specs.
Additional Info:
We are an equal opportunity employer/ E-Verify employer
Background check and drug screening required

What Ruth's Chris Steak House employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Ruth's Chris Steak House logo

About Ruth's Chris Steak House

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our steaks are cooked using a patented broiling method developed by our founder. They’re seasoned to perfection, and then served sizzling on 500-degree plates. Our chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff are among the best in the world. They’re trained to deliver steaks exactly the way Ruth wanted. We’ve combined the finest spirits, service, and steaks with a relaxed, friendly environment to create the best bar experience.

Industry

Food services and drinking places and restaurants

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Winter Park, FL, US