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Restaurant Chef Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Chef de Cuisine (FTYR)

Thompsonville, MI

$56K - $77K/yr

The Restaurant Chef ensures that all food production workers are performing their duties as assigned by the Executive Chef. In conjunction with the Sous Chef, the Restaurant Chef is responsible for ...

Chef de Cuisine (FTYR)

Thompsonville, MI

$56K - $77K/yr

The Restaurant Chef ensures that all food production workers are performing their duties as assigned by the Executive Chef. In conjunction with the Sous Chef, the Restaurant Chef is responsible for ...

The Restaurant Chef ensures that all food production workers are performing their duties as assigned by the Executive Chef. In conjunction with the Sous Chef, the Restaurant Chef is responsible for ...

Sous Chef

Romulus, MI · On-site

$59K - $69K/yr

This is an exempt position and typically reports to the Restaurant Chef, depending on local requirements. Essential Functions: * Assists in supervising the day to day activities of kitchen staff ...

Sous Chef

Detroit, MI · On-site

$59K - $69K/yr

This is an exempt position and typically reports to the Restaurant Chef, depending on local requirements. Essential Functions: * Assists in supervising the day to day activities of kitchen staff ...

Sous Chef

Detroit, MI · On-site

$59K - $69K/yr

This is an exempt position and typically reports to the Restaurant Chef, depending on local requirements. Essential Functions: * Assists in supervising the day to day activities of kitchen staff ...

Minimum 5 years of Executive Chef experience in an upscale/Fine Dining Restaurant * Strong creative background with an emphasis on seasonal and locally sourced cuisine * Experience managing food and ...

Sous Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$48K - $55K/yr

Sous Chef Dominos Farm, Ann Arbor Managed by Picasso Restaurant Group Picasso Restaurant Group is looking for a motivated and experienced Sous Chef to join our culinary team at our Cafe at the ...

Sous Chef

Detroit, MI · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

About the Organization OVERVIEW ABOUT DIVIDEND RESTAURANT GROUP Dividend Restaurant Group (DRG) was ... Description Sullivan's Steakhouse is hiring qualified applicants for Sous Chefs in your area!

Sous Chef

Ann Arbor, MI

$48K - $66K/yr

Sous Chef Dominos Farm, Ann Arbor Managed byPicasso Restaurant Group Picasso Restaurant Group is looking for a motivated and experiencedSous Chefto join our culinary team at our Cafe at the Dominos ...

Sous Chef Dominos Farm, Ann Arbor Managed byPicasso Restaurant Group Picasso Restaurant Group is looking for a motivated and experiencedSous Chefto join our culinary team at our Cafe at the Dominos ...

Sous Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$65K - $69K/yr

We are seeking a Chef de Cuisine to join our team, leading one of America's most authentic and experiential Spanish restaurants for over 13 years. Led by Executive Chef Quique Franco, born and raised ...

Sous Chef

White Lake, MI · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

Sous Chef About Us Suser Restaurant Group is comprised of Sparkies Kitchen & Bar, Stella's Table, and Union 212 Banquet Hall, located in the lakes area of Oakland County. We invite you to join our ...

Executive Chef

Bloomfield, MI · On-site

$69K - $95K/yr

About the Organization OVERVIEW ABOUT DIVIDEND RESTAURANT GROUP Dividend Restaurant Group (DRG) was ... Lead, direct, coach and teach the Sous Chef and the kitchen and food production team. * Recruit ...

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Restaurant Chef information

See Michigan salary details

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How much do restaurant chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for restaurant chef in Michigan is $21.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a chef earn in a restaurant?

A restaurant chef's earnings vary based on experience, location, and the establishment's size, but typically range from $30,000 to $70,000 annually. Executive chefs and specialized roles can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $80,000, especially in high-end or busy restaurants. Skills such as menu planning and kitchen management influence earning potential.

What are some common challenges Restaurant Chefs face in managing kitchen operations?

Restaurant Chefs often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency in food quality, handling high-pressure service periods, and managing inventory to minimize waste. Coordinating a diverse kitchen team and ensuring clear communication is also essential for smooth operations. Additionally, adapting to menu changes and accommodating special dietary requests requires flexibility and strong culinary knowledge.

What are restaurant chefs?

Restaurant chefs are culinary professionals responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting food in restaurants. They create menus, oversee kitchen staff, ensure food quality, and maintain kitchen safety and sanitation standards. Chefs may specialize in certain cuisines or dishes and often manage inventory and food costs. Their role is crucial in delivering a memorable dining experience to guests.

How to get a job as a chef in a restaurant?

To get a job as a restaurant chef, you should gain relevant culinary training or experience, develop cooking skills, and obtain certifications such as food safety licenses. Building a strong resume, networking with industry professionals, and applying to entry-level or apprentice positions can help you start your career in a restaurant kitchen.

What is the difference between Restaurant Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectRestaurant ChefLine Cook
CredentialsCulinary degree or equivalent experienceOn-the-job training or culinary school
Work EnvironmentKitchen leadership, menu planningFood preparation on the line
ResponsibilitiesOversees kitchen operations, manages staffPrepares specific dishes, follows recipes
Industry UsageExecutive and head chef rolesLine cook positions in restaurants

The main difference between a Restaurant Chef and a Line Cook is that the Restaurant Chef oversees kitchen operations, manages staff, and plans menus, while the Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes according to recipes on the line. The Restaurant Chef has more responsibilities and typically requires more experience or formal training, whereas the Line Cook specializes in food preparation within a team setting.

What is the highest paying chef job?

Executive chefs, head chefs, or culinary directors typically earn the highest salaries among chef roles, especially in fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, or private clubs. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often involve managing large teams and budgets, with top earners making six-figure incomes in some regions.

Is 35 too late to become a chef?

A restaurant chef can start at any age, and many successful chefs begin their careers later in life. Experience, culinary skills, and training such as culinary school or apprenticeships are more important than age. It is possible to pursue a career as a chef at 35 or older with dedication and proper training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Restaurant Chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Restaurant Chef, you need expertise in culinary techniques, menu planning, food safety, and usually formal culinary training or certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Leadership, creativity, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure set outstanding chefs apart. These skills are vital to consistently deliver high-quality dishes, ensure kitchen safety, and maintain a positive, productive kitchen environment.
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Restaurant Chef jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Restaurant Chef job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Restaurant Chef jobs in MI? For Restaurant Chef jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Restaurant Chef job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,647 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Chef de Cuisine (FTYR)

crystalmountain

Thompsonville, MI

$56K - $77K/yr

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

The Restaurant Chef is responsible food production, food quality/consistency, and upholding/ maintaining kitchen cleanliness. The Restaurant Chef ensures that all food production workers are performing their duties as assigned by the Executive Chef. In conjunction with the Sous Chef, the Restaurant Chef is responsible for employee development, ordering, scheduling, attending meetings, etc.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Responsible for assisting Executive Chef in the selection, training, supervision and success of all Thistle kitchen staff members.
  • Capable of creating a motivational atmosphere and a cohesive food and beverage team.
  • Actively involved in the daily operation of being a “hands on” Chef through modeling proper culinary techniques and working alongside the staff.
  • Adhere to all resort performance standards to ensure that all guests have an outstanding dining experience.
  • Check event order sheets for ordering, production, and personnel scheduling.
  • Coordinate staffing levels and food preparation daily, to ensure the timing and flow of food service meets the demand, while maintaining budget goals.
  • Enforce internal cost and labor controls. Maintain appropriate staffing levels in relation to expected business. Work in conjunction with the outlet Sous Chef in scheduling.
  • Assist with creating seasonal menus based on current trends and guest preferences. Take an active role in the Farm to Table dinner series.
  • Supervise kitchen mise en place of all stations.
  • Establish par levels for food items, kitchen supplies, and other necessary products needed to operate the Thistle Kitchen. This includes producing prep forecasts based on house counts, business forecast, previous experiences, date, etc. Post the prep lists for all kitchen staff to see.
  • Maintain clean and organized storage areas for all food items, and for proper rotation.
  • Oversee the compliance of state health regulations in the safe handling, storage, and service of all food items.
  • Ensure all china, glassware, silver and kitchen equipment is properly sanitized, racked, and/or stored.
  • Lead the “clean as you go” techniques that ensure all kitchens, dish rooms, storage and other central areas are both clean and safe.
  • Comply with all Resort policies, procedures and standards of operation.
  • Perform other duties and tasks as required.

Job Specifications

Competencies:

  • ServSafe Certified.
  • Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, Outlook proficiency.
  • Effective business writing skills (grammar, vocabulary, clarity and brevity).
  • Clear and concise verbal communication skills.
  • Self-directed and able to maximize use of time and resources.
  • Exhibits a professional demeanor through appearance and by maintaining a positive attitude toward all staff members and guests.
  • Maintains office, employee and company confidentiality at all times.
  • Dependable and meets goals.
  • Exemplifies professional conduct and adherence to company Core Values.

Education:

  • Two year Associate’s degree or a Bachelor’s degree from a four year college desired.
  • Must have a minimum of 8 (eight) years kitchen experience with a minimum of 2 (two) years management experience.

Physical & Other Requirements:

  • While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear and taste or smell.
  • The employee is frequently required to walk and climb or balance.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
  • Evenings, weekends and holidays are a regular part of the schedule.
  • Must have excellent attendance and conduct record for consideration.
  • Non-smoking candidates preferred.