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Sous Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Northwood, IA ยท On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Company Description Boyd Gaming Corporation has been successful in gaming jurisdiction in which we operate in the United States and is one of the premier casino entertainment companies in the United ...

Sous Chef

Pella, IA ยท On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

West Side Social is Pella's newest dining and entertainment destination! We are looking for a kitchen leader to round out our team. At least 2 years experience as a kitchen leader in a full service ...

Sous Chef

Pella, IA ยท On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

West Side Social is Pella's newest dining and entertainment destination! We are looking for a kitchen leader to round out our team. At least 2 years experience as a kitchen leader in a full service ...

Banquet Sous

Dubuque, IA ยท On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

The Banquet Sous Chef is a key member of the culinary team, assisting the Executive Chef in the successful daily operation of the banquet kitchen. This role is responsible for overseeing the ...

New

Banquet Sous

Dubuque, IA ยท On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

The Banquet Sous Chef is a key member of the culinary team, assisting the Executive Chef in the successful daily operation of the banquet kitchen. This role is responsible for overseeing the ...

Executive Sous Chef

Northwood, IA ยท On-site

$61K - $77K/yr

Company Description Boyd Gaming Corporation has been successful in gaming jurisdiction in which we operate in the United States and is one of the premier casino entertainment companies in the United ...

Executive Sous Chef

Northwood, IA ยท On-site

$61K - $77K/yr

Company Description Boyd Gaming Corporation has been successful in gaming jurisdiction in which we operate in the United States and is one of the premier casino entertainment companies in the United ...

Lead Line Cook

Fort Madison, IA ยท On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

You assist the Executive Chef/Sous Chef with the preparation and service of "all" food related items that are produced in the galley in accordance with the menu matrix as well as any special requests ...

Lead Line Cook

Fort Madison, IA ยท On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

You assist the Executive Chef/Sous Chef with the preparation and service of "all" food related items that are produced in the galley in accordance with the menu matrix as well as any special requests ...

Executive Chef

Waukee, IA ยท On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Develop Sous Chef and Lead Cook to take on additional leadership and management duties. * Directly responsible for food control, labor costs, menu engineering, recipe creation and standardization of ...

Executive Chef

Waukee, IA ยท On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Develop Sous Chef and Lead Cook to take on additional leadership and management duties. * Directly responsible for food control, labor costs, menu engineering, recipe creation and standardization of ...

Executive Chef

Waukee, IA ยท On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Develop Sous Chef and Lead Cook to take on additional leadership and management duties. * Directly responsible for food control, labor costs, menu engineering, recipe creation and standardization of ...

Showing results 41-60

Sous Chef information

See Iowa salary details

$28.6K

$55.4K

$72.8K

How much do sous chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 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.

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 cities in Iowa are hiring for Sous Chef jobs?

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:

Infographic showing various Sous Chef job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,415 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Sous Chef

Northwood, IA โ€ข On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Boyd Gaming Corporation has been successful in gaming jurisdiction in which we operate in the United States and is one of the premier casino entertainment companies in the United States. Never content to rest upon our successes, we will continue to evolve and retain a position of leadership in our industry. Our past success, our current business philosophies and our sound business planning, combine to position Boyd Gaming Corporation to maximize value for our shareholders, our team members and our communities.

Job Description

Coordinate and facilitate all food preparation, presentation, and service procedures as directed by the Director of F&B. Monitor quality and quantity of prepared food. Ensure proper rotation and utilization of stored food to prevent 

waste. Monitor employee performance, provide instruction as needed, and monitor staffing levels.

Personally, and alongside kitchen staff, facilitate all food preparation, presentation, and service procedures as directed by Director of F&B.

• Monitor quantity of prepared food and ensure that quality and quantity standards are consistently satisfied.

• Ensure proper rotation and utilization of stored food to prevent waste.

• Oversees food preparation to ensure proper consistency, flavor, presentation, and portion control.

• Monitors staffing levels, early out requests, and overtime.

• Monitors and ensures kitchen and storage areas are clean, sanitary, and meet health and safety standards.

• Delegate work assignments to cooks and other kitchen staff.

• Monitor employee performance, instructs employees in the proper performance of job duties and administer disciplinary action. 

• Requisition stock according to business needs/pars.

• Ensure that the kitchen, storage areas, and other related areas are kept clean and free of safety hazards.

Qualifications

One (1) year of experience in the same or similar position preferred. 

Must be able to stand and walk for majority of shift. 
Must be able to lift, carry, and maneuver up to 40 pounds. 
Other physical demands include but are not limited to grasping, reaching, 
bending, lifting, and kneeling.
Must have excellent communication skills.
Must be able to obtain/maintain any necessary licenses and/or certifications.


Additional Information

Boyd Gaming is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.

Boyd Gaming is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.