ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Top Chef Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Xiquet

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$60K - $85K/yr

Top Ten on 100 Best Restaurants Washingtonian 2023 * OAD Top 100 in North America since 2023 Qualifications: * Proven experience in a fine dining kitchen, ideally in a Sous Chef or similar role

FTK Hospitlatity DC

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$80K - $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 ...

Pineapple and Pearls

Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$92K - $97K/yr

We are seeking a Head Chef to join our James Beard award winning team at one of our D.C Michelin ... Top 100 restaurants 2017 Some Things to Know About Us: Our mission is "To make this the most ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Be Seen First

Sous Chef

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Our Sous Chefs partner with the Executive Chef to provide direction and training to team members by ... Top 10 Fast-Growing Chains and as one of 10 Breakout Brands by Nations Restaurant News. For more ...

New

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 ...

Upper Crust Food Service

Sous Chef

College Park, MD · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Sous Chef Sous Chefs are responsible for supporting the Head Chef in food preparation, management ... top range, refrigeration equipment, and floors * Wash kitchen utensils, equipment and dishes, etc.

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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

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

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

$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 ...

Taher, Inc.

Regional Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

Our Regional Chefs manage Business and Industry operations while connecting food and our clients ... Taher is a Food Management Magazine Top 25 Food Service Contract Company. * Professional Culinary ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTop Chef JobsTop Chef Jobs in Washington

Top Chef information

See Washington salary details

$11

$27

$50

How much do top chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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 is the highest paid chef?

The highest paid chefs are often executive chefs or celebrity chefs, with top earners making over $200,000 annually. Factors influencing salary include experience, reputation, location, and the prestige of the establishment or media presence.

How much does a Top Chef earn?

Top Chefs typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the prestige of the establishment. Highly renowned chefs or those working in luxury restaurants can earn significantly more, especially with bonuses and endorsements.

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 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.

How much do top chefs get paid?

Top chefs' salaries vary based on experience, location, and establishment, but they typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually. Highly renowned chefs or those working in luxury restaurants can earn significantly more, especially with bonuses, endorsements, or ownership stakes.

What is the highest paying type of chef?

Executive chefs, also known as head chefs, tend to be the highest paid among culinary professionals, especially in fine dining restaurants, hotels, and resorts. They often have extensive experience, leadership skills, and may earn additional income through bonuses or profit sharing.

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 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

Sous Chef

Xiquet

Washington, DC

$60K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

About the Position:

We are looking for an experienced and highly organized culinary professional with a deep commitment to fine dining. Our ideal candidate thrives in a brigade-style kitchen, demonstrates exemplary cooking skills, and has a keen eye for detail and cleanliness. You will work closely with our Executive Chef to develop menus, manage kitchen operations, and maintain the highest quality in every dish.

Join the Michelin-Starred Culinary Team at Xiquet by Danny Lledó

Xiquet by Danny Lledó, Washington D.C.'s premier Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in innovative Valencian cuisine, is seeking a skilled and driven Sous Chef to join our celebrated kitchen team. Known for seamlessly blending Spanish traditions with modern flair, our restaurant provides a dining experience like no other. As Sous Chef, you will play an essential role in upholding our standards of excellence and helping lead the kitchen to new culinary heights.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Support the Executive Chef in menu development, sourcing, and ingredient costing
  • Lead daily kitchen operations, ensuring each service runs smoothly and meets Michelin-star standards
  • Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation to ensure consistency and quality
  • Train, mentor, and guide kitchen staff, promoting a culture of teamwork and excellence
  • Manage inventory, conduct regular ordering, and maintain vendor relationships
  • Uphold meticulous standards of cleanliness, organization, and safety within the kitchen
  • Assist in menu planning, tasting, and creating innovative dishes that reflect our culinary vision

What We Offer:

  • Competitive compensation based on experience and skill level
  • Comprehensive, fully paid health insurance plan for full-time employees
  • Every Sunday and Monday off, as the restaurant is closed
  • Opportunity to work in an award-winning, Michelin-starred kitchen with a focus on skill-building and advancement

Accolades:

  • One Star, Michelin Guide since 2021
  • Sommelier of the Year, Michelin Guide 2022
  • 5 Diamond AAA Award since 2022
  • Wine Spectator Award of Excellence since 2023
  • 2023 RAMMY Award for Formal Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year
  • Top Ten on 100 Best Restaurants Washingtonian 2023
  • OAD Top 100 in North America since 2023

Qualifications:

  • Proven experience in a fine dining kitchen, ideally in a Sous Chef or similar role
  • Strong knowledge of American and European cuisine, especially French and Spanish
  • Excellent leadership and team management skills
  • High attention to detail, with a commitment to quality and cleanliness
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities in a fast-paced environment
  • Current ServSafe certification, DC DOH certificate, or the ability to obtain one within 30 days
More detail about Xiquet, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/322255-Xiquet