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Seasonal Cooking Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Goodstone

Executive Sous Chef

Middleburg, VA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Strong knowledge of seasonal cooking, scratch kitchens, and farm-to-table cuisine. * Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop culinary teams. * Strong organizational, communication, and problem ...

Easton Porter Group

Line Cook - Events (Seasonal)

VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

We're looking for Line Cooks to support our kitchen through our busiest season - working across ... Seasonal role through late October * 32-48 hours per week during peak season * Weekend availability ...

Delaware North

Cook, Loft Mountain

Luray, VA

$19/hr

The opportunity Delaware North Parks and Resorts is hiring seasonal Cooks to join our team at Loft Mountain in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. As a Cook, you will be responsible for preparing ...

Delaware North

Cook, Loft Mountain

Luray, VA

$19/hr

The opportunity Delaware North Parks and Resorts is hiring seasonal Cooks to join our team at Loft Mountain in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. As a Cook, you will be responsible for preparing ...

Delaware North

Cook, Loft Mountain

Luray, VA

$19/hr

The opportunity Delaware North Parks and Resorts is hiring seasonal Cooks to join our team at Loft Mountain in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. As a Cook, you will be responsible for preparing ...

Delaware North

Cook, Loft Mountain

Luray, VA · On-site

$19/hr

The opportunity Delaware North Parks and Resorts is hiring seasonal Cooks to join our team at Loft Mountain in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. As a Cook, you will be responsible for preparing ...

Delaware North

Cook, Big Meadows Wayside

Luray, VA

$19/hr

The opportunity Delaware North Parks and Resorts is hiring a seasonal Cook to join our team at Big Meadows Wayside in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. As a Cook, you will be responsible for ...

Delaware North

Cook, Loft Mountain

Luray, VA · On-site

$19/hr

The opportunity Delaware North Parks and Resorts is hiring seasonal Cooks to join our team at Loft Mountain in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. As a Cook, you will be responsible for preparing ...

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All JobsCooking JobsSeasonal Cooking JobsSeasonal Cooking Jobs in Virginia

Seasonal Cooking information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do seasonal cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for seasonal cooking in Virginia is $16.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is seasonal cooking?

Seasonal cooking is the practice of preparing meals using ingredients that are currently in season and locally available. This approach emphasizes freshness, flavor, and nutrition, as fruits and vegetables are typically harvested at their peak. Seasonal cooking often supports local farmers and reduces the environmental impact associated with transporting out-of-season produce. It encourages creativity in the kitchen, as menus and recipes change throughout the year to reflect what's available. Many people find that seasonal cooking leads to tastier and more satisfying meals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a seasonal cook?

To thrive as a Seasonal Cook, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and experience in fast-paced kitchen environments, often supported by a food handler’s permit or relevant culinary training. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and seasonal menu planning tools is typically required. Adaptability, teamwork, and time management are standout soft skills for handling fluctuating workloads and diverse teams. These skills are important to ensure high-quality meals, food safety, and smooth kitchen operations during busy seasonal periods.

What are some typical challenges faced in a seasonal cooking position, and how can I prepare for them?

In a seasonal cooking role, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to fluctuating demand, learning new menus quickly, and working in fast-paced environments with changing teams. It's important to be flexible and able to pick up new recipes or procedures efficiently. Building strong communication with your colleagues helps maintain smooth kitchen operations, especially during peak periods. Preparing by familiarizing yourself with seasonal ingredients and practicing time management will set you up for success in this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Seasonal Cooking vs Line Cook?

AspectSeasonal CookingLine Cook
CredentialsCooking certifications, culinary degrees often preferredCooking certifications, culinary degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, catering, seasonal food eventsRestaurants, hotels, food service establishments
Industry UsageFocuses on seasonal ingredients and menusPrepares dishes on a daily basis in a fast-paced kitchen
Search & ComparisonOften compared for culinary specialization and seasonal menusCompared for kitchen roles and daily food prep

Seasonal Cooking involves preparing dishes based on seasonal ingredients and menus, often emphasizing freshness and variety throughout the year. Line Cooks focus on executing daily menu items in a fast-paced kitchen environment. While both roles require culinary skills and certifications, Seasonal Cooking emphasizes adaptability to seasonal ingredients, whereas Line Cooks concentrate on consistent daily food preparation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Seasonal Cooking jobs in Virginia?

For Seasonal Cooking jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Seasonal Cooking jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Seasonal Cooking jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Seasonal Cooking jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Seasonal Cooking job openings:

Seasonal Cooking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Seasonal Cooking job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, and 37% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,692 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Executive Sous Chef

Goodstone

Middleburg, VA • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance
  • Wellness resources
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discounts

Executive Sous ChefDepartment: Culinary
Reports To: Executive Chef
About Goodstone
Nestled on 265 acres in the heart of Virginia wine country, Goodstone is a luxury destination where exceptional hospitality, refined accommodations, and unforgettable culinary experiences come together. Home to The Goodstone Inn, our award-winning boutique inn, and Grayson's at Goodstone, our estate-driven restaurant, Goodstone offers guests an experience rooted in authenticity, craftsmanship, and genuine hospitality.
At Grayson's at Goodstone, the land sets the menu.
Our culinary team works hand-in-hand with the seasons, harvesting ingredients from Goodstone Farm and partnering with local producers to create thoughtful dishes that celebrate Virginia's agricultural heritage. Every plate tells the story of the estate—from garden to table—with simplicity, creativity, and exceptional execution.
If you're passionate about mentoring others, leading from the line, and creating memorable dining experiences, we'd love to meet you.
Position SummaryThe Executive Sous Chef is the operational leader of the kitchen and the Executive Chef's primary partner in delivering exceptional culinary experiences at Grayson's at Goodstone.
This is a highly hands-on leadership role that requires an individual who enjoys being on the line, coaching the team during service, and upholding the highest culinary standards every day. The Executive Sous Chef helps oversee all kitchen operations, develops culinary talent, ensures consistency in execution, manages labor and food costs, and fosters a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
When the Executive Chef is away, the Executive Sous Chef assumes responsibility for the entire culinary operation.
Essential ResponsibilitiesCulinary Leadership
  •  Lead daily kitchen operations while maintaining the highest culinary standards. 
  •  Work side-by-side with the culinary team during prep and service. 
  •  Execute seasonal menus with consistency, creativity, and attention to detail. 
  •  Ensure every dish reflects the quality and presentation standards of Grayson's at Goodstone. 
  •  Assist with recipe development, menu planning, and seasonal offerings. 
  •  Partner with the Executive Chef to continuously elevate the guest dining experience. 
Team Leadership
  •  Supervise, coach, mentor, and develop all culinary team members. 
  •  Lead by example through professionalism, accountability, and work ethic. 
  •  Assist with interviewing, hiring, onboarding, scheduling, and performance management. 
  •  Train employees on recipes, cooking techniques, food presentation, sanitation, and safety. 
  •  Foster a positive, collaborative kitchen culture built on respect and teamwork. 
Kitchen Operations
  •  Assist in managing labor schedules to balance service needs and labor costs. 
  •  Monitor food quality, consistency, and portion control. 
  •  Oversee inventory, ordering, receiving, and product rotation. 
  •  Help manage food costs, reduce waste, and improve purchasing efficiency. 
  •  Ensure all equipment is maintained and operating properly. 
  •  Support banquet, special event, and private dining execution. 
Food Safety & Compliance
  •  Maintain strict compliance with all health department regulations. 
  •  Ensure ServSafe and sanitation standards are consistently followed. 
  •  Monitor proper food storage, labeling, temperature logs, and HACCP procedures. 
  •  Promote a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment. 
Operational Excellence
  •  Assume responsibility for the kitchen in the Executive Chef's absence. 
  •  Collaborate with Front-of-House leadership to deliver seamless guest experiences. 
  •  Maintain calm, decisive leadership during busy service periods. 
  •  Support continuous improvement initiatives throughout the culinary operation. 

Qualifications
  •  Minimum 5 years of progressive culinary experience. 
  •  Minimum 2 years in a Sous Chef or culinary leadership position. 
  •  Experience in upscale, luxury, boutique hotel, resort, or fine dining environments preferred. 
  •  Strong knowledge of seasonal cooking, scratch kitchens, and farm-to-table cuisine. 
  •  Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop culinary teams. 
  •  Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. 
  •  Experience managing labor and food costs. 
  •  Working knowledge of inventory management and purchasing. 
  •  ServSafe Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire). 

Preferred Skills
  •  Leadership and team development 
  •  Culinary creativity 
  •  Fine dining execution 
  •  Farm-to-table philosophy 
  •  Food safety and sanitation 
  •  Inventory management 
  •  Labor management 
  •  Cost control 
  •  Communication 
  •  Time management 

Work ScheduleThis is a full-time leadership position requiring flexibility to meet the needs of the business.
The Executive Sous Chef must be available to work:
  •  Days, evenings, weekends, and holidays 
  •  Extended shifts during peak business periods and special events 
  •  Approximately 50–60 hours per week based on business needs 
This position is expected to maintain a visible, hands-on presence in the kitchen and actively lead the culinary team during service.
Physical Requirements
  •  Stand and walk for extended periods. 
  •  Lift and carry up to 50 pounds. 
  •  Frequently bend, reach, twist, and climb stairs. 
  •  Work safely in hot, fast-paced kitchen environments. 
  •  Ability to use knives and commercial kitchen equipment safely. 

Benefits & Perks
  •  Competitive Salary 
  •  Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance (effective Day 61) 
  •  Short-Term Disability 
  •  Long-Term Disability 
  •  Life Insurance 
  •  401(k) with Company Match 
  •  Paid Vacation 
  •  Paid Sick Time 
  •  Employee Referral Bonus Program 
  •  Employee Discounts at The Goodstone Inn and Grayson's at Goodstone 
  •  Opportunities for professional growth and advancement 

Additional DutiesThis job description is intended to describe the general responsibilities of this position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties. Responsibilities may change based on business needs.
Equal Employment OpportunityGoodstone is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and valued. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
Goodstone is also a drug-free workplace. Pre-employment and/or post-offer drug screening may be required in accordance with applicable laws and company policy.