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Sous Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Marcus Hotels

Executive Sous Chef

Coralville, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

Executive Sous Chef Experienced culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment and enjoys leading teams that create memorable guest experiences? The Hyatt Regency Coralville ...

Marcus Hotels

Executive Sous Chef

Coralville, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

Executive Sous Chef Experienced culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment and enjoys leading teams that create memorable guest experiences? The Hyatt Regency Coralville ...

Whispering Creek Senior Living

Sous Chef

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

The Sous Chef helps lead kitchen staff, ensures efficient meal service, and contributes to a positive dining experience. Essential Job Responsibilities * Prepare and portion food ingredients ...

Fleming's

Sous Chef

West Des Moines, IA

$45K - $62K/yr

As a successful Sous Chef, you will be the key to fulfilling our promise to make every guest visit a memorable celebration of food, wine, and personalized service. Ensuring that Fleming's is an ...

Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel

F&B Sous Chef

Tama, IA · On-site

$22.66/hr

Purchase, receive and control inventories as directed by the Executive Sous Chef/Executive Chef. * Maintain awareness of special functions, bus counts, hotel occupancies . . . any incident/event that ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA · On-site

$51K - $56K/yr

Job Summary Working as the Sous Chef, you will be responsible for the successful food service operation of the hospital's large-scale kitchen, serving patients, retail customers in the cafeteria and ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF

Mount Vernon, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

Bon Appetit

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mount Vernon, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mount Vernon, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mount Vernon, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

Churchill Downs Incorporated

Sous Chef

Sioux City, IA

$49K - $66K/yr

Work with Restaurant Chef to analyze food costs and forecast business trends to make recommendations for revision of menu prices that will most appropriately meet company goals. * Perform other ...

Marriott

Sous Chef

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

Assists Executive Chef with all kitchen operations. Recognizes superior quality products, presentations and flavor. Ensures compliance with all local, state and federal (e.g., OSHA, ASI and Health ...

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All JobsSous Chef JobsSous Chef Jobs in Iowa

Sous Chef information

See Iowa salary details

$28.6K

$55.4K

$72.8K

How much do sous chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for sous chef in Iowa is $55,415.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $63,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sous chef?

Sous chefs are second-in-command in a kitchen, working directly under the head chef or executive chef. They help oversee kitchen operations, manage other kitchen staff, and ensure that food is prepared to quality standards. Sous chefs are often responsible for supervising food preparation, managing inventory, and assisting with menu planning. Their role is critical to maintaining efficiency and consistency in a professional kitchen.

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

To thrive as a Sous Chef, you need strong culinary skills, a solid understanding of kitchen operations, and typically a culinary degree or relevant experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications such as ServSafe are commonly required. Leadership, time management, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing kitchen staff and ensuring smooth service. These skills and qualifications are essential to maintain high food quality, operational efficiency, and a cohesive team in a high-pressure kitchen environment.

What are some common challenges sous chefs face when managing kitchen operations during busy service periods?

Sous Chefs often encounter challenges such as maintaining clear communication among kitchen staff, ensuring all dishes meet quality standards, and adapting quickly to unexpected changes like last-minute menu adjustments or equipment malfunctions. During peak hours, balancing speed with precision is crucial, as is supporting the Executive Chef and stepping in wherever needed. Effective delegation, problem-solving under pressure, and fostering teamwork are key skills that help Sous Chefs navigate these demanding situations successfully.

What is the difference between Sous Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectSous ChefLine Cook
Credentials Culinary training, certifications often preferred Culinary skills, on-the-job training
Work Environment Supervisory role in kitchen, responsible for kitchen operations Preparing specific dishes on the kitchen line
Employer Usage Commonly employed in restaurants, hotels, and catering Found in similar settings, working under chefs

The main difference between a Sous Chef and a Line Cook is that the Sous Chef has supervisory responsibilities and oversees kitchen operations, while the Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes on the kitchen line. The Sous Chef often has more experience and may hold certifications, whereas the Line Cook specializes in executing specific tasks. Both roles are essential in a professional kitchen, but the Sous Chef plays a leadership role in ensuring smooth kitchen functioning.

How much does a sous chef get paid an hour?

A sous chef typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Salaries can vary based on the size of the restaurant and the complexity of the menu, with some earning higher wages in upscale or high-volume venues.

Is a sous chef a good career?

A sous chef is a key leadership role in a kitchen, responsible for assisting the head chef with food preparation, staff management, and quality control. It offers opportunities for skill development, advancement to executive chef, and typically requires culinary training and experience. Career growth depends on experience, reputation, and the ability to handle high-pressure environments.
More about Sous Chef jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Sous Chef jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Sous Chef jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Sous Chef jobs in Iowa?

For Sous Chef jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sous Chef jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Sous Chef jobs in Iowa are:

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Cities in Iowa with the most Sous Chef job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Sous Chef jobs in IA?

For Sous Chef jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Sous Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sous Chef job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,415 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Executive Sous Chef - Local Favorite - Benefits + Bonuses

Gecko Hospitality

Grimes, IA • On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead the culinary personnel and maintain a professional and organized kitchen.

  • Ensure excellent food quality and preparation.

  • Assist in selecting, training, and coaching the culinary staff.

Job description

Executive Sous Chef

Immediate Need - Iowa Favorite

Des Moines


Our Company is actively seeking the best possible Sous Chef in the Des Moines, area! In the past 15 years we have been redefining outstanding food and service in the industry. We take pride in every aspect of our restaurants, from the décor to the made-from-scratch entrees. Our goal is to make everyone feel welcome for any occasion. With an extensive wine list and an evolving menu, we’ ve become a favorite place to eat among our restaurants across the Midwest. We’ve received numerous customer service awards over the years, and our success wouldn’t have been possible without our team members. To be the Sous Chef of our Des Moines location, apply today by sending your updated resume to jcameron@geckohospitality.com!



Title of Position: Sous Chef

Job Description: As our Sous Chef you will be responsible for leading the culinary personnel and maintaining a professional and organized kitchen. Ensuring excellent food quality and preparation will be a priority as the Sous Chef. The Sous Chef will report vital information directly to the Executive Chef. If there are occasions when the Executive Chef is unable to work, the Sous Chef assumes all duties normally designated to the Executive Chef.


The Sous Chef will assist in selecting, training and coaching the culinary staff. A Sous Chef often acts as the intermediary between the front and back of the house, so strong leadership and communication abilities are a must. Our ideal candidate will have outstanding problem-solving abilities and the ability to quickly adjust to changing situations. Our Sous Chef will work closely with the Executive Chef and become familiar with administrative duties and cost control practices to expand knowledge and the ability to grow your career.


Benefits:

  • 401k
  • Performance Based Incentives
  • Career Advancement
  • Paid Vacation
  • Competitive Pay
  • Work & Life Balance
  • Apply today to learn more about this Sous Chef position!


Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 2+ years current experience as a Sous Chef in a high volume (over $3m per year in sales) Full Service or Upscale Casual concept
  • Ability to maintain high levels of food quality, consistency, and hygiene
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • Hands-on with hiring, training, and developing hourly employees
  • Excellent work ethic and drive to succeed
  • Sous Chef must be proficient with financials (P&L's, inventory, food/labor cost, etc.)


Apply Now - Sous Chef located in Des Moines, Iowa! Simply send your updated resume to jcameron@geckohospitality.com to begin interviewing for this fabulous opportunity.