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Top Chef Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD

$62K - $75K/yr

The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD · On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD

$62K - $75K/yr

The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD · On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD · On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ...

Culinaire Staffing

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$80K - $111K/yr

Executive Chef | High-Volume, Upscale Restaurant Relocation Assistance Available About the Role: We ... Seasonal menu changes, recipe standardization, and high-volume plate execution to maintain top-tier ...

FTK Hospitlatity DC

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$90K/yr

Executive Chef - Full Time FTK Hospitality Baltimore | Washington, DC FTK Hospitality DC is seeking ... Join the Team If you are passionate about leading a top-tier kitchen and creating memorable dining ...

DIG INN Restaurant Teams

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Chef Operator [Executive Chef/General Manager] COMPENSATION: Salary Range: $80,000-85,000/year with ... top-line sales. * Collaborate with the CDC on QA processes and convert guest feedback into ...

DIG INN Restaurant Teams

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Chef Operator [Executive Chef/General Manager] COMPENSATION: Salary Range: $80,000-85,000/year with ... top-line sales. * Collaborate with the CDC on QA processes and convert guest feedback into ...

DIG INN Restaurant Teams

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$80K - $85K/yr

Chef Operator [Executive Chef/General Manager] COMPENSATION: Salary Range: $80,000-85,000/year with ... top-line sales. * Collaborate with the CDC on QA processes and convert guest feedback into ...

DIG INN

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$80K - $85K/yr

Chef Operator [Executive Chef/General Manager] COMPENSATION: Salary Range: $80,000-85,000/year with ... top-line sales. * Collaborate with the CDC on QA processes and convert guest feedback into ...

Sfoglina Rosslyn

Sous Chef

Arlington, VA · On-site

$57K - $77K/yr

Sous Chef Opportunities | Michelin-Starred Restaurant Group Fabio Trabocchi Restaurants, led by ... Compensation & Benefits We offer competitive salary and top-tier earning potential, along with ...

New

Goodwin House

Executive Chef

Alexandria, VA

$88K - $95K/yr

Celebrated as the #3 Top Workplace in the D.C. region for 2025 by The Washington Post since 2019 ... The Executive Chef must ensure all HACCP documentation is accurate and completed daily. The ...

Goodwin Living

Executive Chef

Alexandria, VA

$88K - $95K/yr

Celebrated as the #3 Top Workplace in the D.C. region for 2025 by The Washington Post since 2019 ... The Executive Chef must ensure all HACCP documentation is accurate and completed daily. The ...

DIG INN Restaurant Teams

Chef Operator

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Chef Operator [Executive Chef/General Manager] COMPENSATION: Salary Range: $80,000-85,000/year with ... top-line sales. * Collaborate with the CDC on QA processes and convert guest feedback into ...

DIG INN Restaurant Teams

Chef Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Chef Operator [Executive Chef/General Manager] COMPENSATION: Salary Range: $80,000-85,000/year with ... top-line sales. * Collaborate with the CDC on QA processes and convert guest feedback into ...

Goodwin Living

Executive Chef

Alexandria, VA

$88K - $95K/yr

Celebrated as the #3 Top Workplace in the D.C. region for 2025 by The Washington Post since 2019 ... The Executive Chef must ensure all HACCP documentation is accurate and completed daily. The ...

DIG INN

Chef Operator

Washington, DC

$80K - $85K/yr

Chef Operator [Executive Chef/General Manager] COMPENSATION: Salary Range: $80,000-85,000/year with ... top-line sales. * Collaborate with the CDC on QA processes and convert guest feedback into ...

DIG INN Restaurant Teams

Chef Operator

Bethesda, MD

$80K - $85K/yr

Chef Operator [Executive Chef/General Manager] COMPENSATION: Salary Range: $80,000-85,000/year with ... top-line sales. * Collaborate with the CDC on QA processes and convert guest feedback into ...

DIG INN Restaurant Teams

Chef Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Chef Operator [Executive Chef/General Manager] COMPENSATION: Salary Range: $80,000-85,000/year with ... top-line sales. * Collaborate with the CDC on QA processes and convert guest feedback into ...

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Top Chef information

See Washington salary details

$11

$27

$50

How much do top chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for top chef in Washington is $27.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $35.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a top chef do?

A Top Chef is a highly skilled culinary professional responsible for creating innovative dishes, managing kitchen staff, and overseeing the overall operations of a restaurant or culinary establishment. They are often recognized for their exceptional cooking techniques, creativity, and leadership within the kitchen. Top Chefs may also handle menu development, food sourcing, and ensure that food quality and safety standards are met. In addition to their culinary expertise, they often serve as mentors to junior chefs and may participate in food competitions or television shows. Their role is essential for maintaining the reputation and success of the dining experience.

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

To thrive as a Top Chef, you need exceptional culinary skills, deep knowledge of food safety, and typically formal training from a culinary institute. Mastery of kitchen equipment, menu planning software, and certifications such as ServSafe are commonly required. Creativity, leadership, and strong communication skills help chefs manage teams and create memorable dining experiences. These abilities ensure high-quality cuisine, efficient kitchen operations, and customer satisfaction in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by top chefs in high-end kitchens, and how can they overcome them?

Top Chefs in high-end kitchens often face challenges such as managing a diverse team under pressure, maintaining consistency across dishes, and balancing creativity with customer preferences. Effective communication and strong organizational skills help in delegating tasks and ensuring smooth kitchen operations. Staying updated with culinary trends and fostering a positive team environment can also help Top Chefs overcome these challenges and deliver exceptional dining experiences.

What is the difference between Top Chef vs Sous Chef?

AspectTop ChefSous Chef
CredentialsCooking experience, culinary skills, often culinary schoolSimilar credentials, culinary experience, often culinary school
Work EnvironmentHigh-end restaurants, culinary competitions, TV showsKitchen of a restaurant, supporting head chef
Industry UsageMedia, culinary competitions, restaurant kitchensRestaurant kitchens, hospitality industry
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Top Chef and Sous Chef both require culinary skills and experience, but Top Chef often refers to chefs in competitions or media, while Sous Chef is a key supporting role in restaurant kitchens. Both roles are integral to culinary operations, with Top Chef more associated with media and competitions, and Sous Chef focused on kitchen management and support.

What are popular job titles related to Top Chef jobs in Washington?

For Top Chef jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Top Chef jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Top Chef jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Top Chef jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Top Chef job openings:

Top Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Top Chef job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,017 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD

Seasons 52
Traveler Accommodation • 1 - 5K employees

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Great coworkers

Good employer

Respectful managers

Learn more about Seasons 52external

$62K - $75K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

$62000 per year - $75000 per year


The Sous Chef is responsible for supporting the Executive Chef in leading a team of culinary professionals that deliver high-quality, great-tasting food; proper food safety and sanitation procedures, and profitability. The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ensure menu items are executed with excellence in the restaurant. Additionally, the Sous Chef supports managing quality in all aspects of their job. 


Job Requirements 

  • Proven success as a Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume upscale restaurant or high-end resort restaurant 
  • Strong passion for culinary excellence, wine knowledge, and service 
  • Proven ability to develop team 
  • Knowledge of systems, methods, and processes that contribute to great execution 
  • Stable job history which demonstrates upward career progression


  • Restaurant Managers receive competitive salary & quarterly bonus eligibility
  • Eligibility for medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Company-paid Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance
  • 2 weeks paid vacations and up to 5 flex days in your first year
  • Paid Family and Medical Leave (up to 2 weeks after 1 year of service)
  • State Benefits Overview
  • After one year of service

∙ Company 401(k) with a match up to 120% on the first 6% of salary

∙ Company paid Retirement Plus Benefits

∙Darden Employee Stock Purchase program

  • Discount program for 1,000 of merchants

What Seasons 52 employees say

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