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Top Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aba

Executive Sous Chef

Dallas, TX

$70K - $80K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Aba

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Aba

Sous Chef

Austin, TX · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Aba

Sous Chef

Dallas, TX · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Aba

Sous Chef

Dallas, TX

$55K - $75K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants

Sous Chef

Dallas, TX

$55K - $75K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Aba

Sous Chef

Austin, TX · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Aba

Chef de Cuisine

Dallas, TX · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Aba

Chef de Cuisine

Austin, TX · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Aba

Chef de Cuisine

Austin, TX · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Aba

Chef de Cuisine

Dallas, TX · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson's modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases ...

Highgate Hotels

Executive Sous Chef

Atlanta, GA

$62K - $79K/yr

... top ownership groups and major hotel brands. Highgate maintains corporate offices in New York ... The Executive Sous Chef is responsible for assisting in coordinating, supervising and directing all ...

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Top Chef information

See salary details

$10

$24

$44

How much do top chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for top chef in the United States is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $31.01 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 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 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.
More about Top Chef jobs
What cities are hiring for Top Chef jobs? Cities with the most Top Chef job openings:
What states have the most Top Chef jobs? States with the most job openings for Top Chef jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Top Chef jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Top Chef jobs are:
Top Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Top Chef job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,225 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Executive Sous Chef

Executive Sous Chef

Aba

Dallas, TX

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Lettuce Entertain You – Aba
Position: Executive Sous Chef
Location: Dallas, TX
Pay: $70,000-$80,000/year

Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants is looking for an Executive Sous Chef with 3+ years of Executive Sous Chef experience in a high-volume, full-service environment.

Job Summary

Leads back-of-house (BOH) operations and daily shifts, ensuring efficient kitchen execution, high-quality food, and a safe, organized environment. Oversees kitchen and dish teams while supporting overall restaurant performance.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead BOH shifts, including kitchen and dish operations
  • Ensure food quality, presentation, and temperature standards
  • Manage prep, inventory, ordering, and food cost controls
  • Conduct line checks, tastings, and kitchen walk-throughs
  • Maintain cleanliness, organization, and sanitation standards
  • Supervise, train, and develop BOH team members
  • Support hiring, scheduling, and performance management
  • Partner with FOH to ensure smooth service and communication
  • Oversee opening/closing duties and equipment maintenance

Requirements

  • Kitchen leadership experience in a high-volume environment
  • Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen operations
  • Ability to lead, multitask, and perform under pressure
  • Effective communication and team leadership skills
  • Flexible schedule (nights, weekends, holidays)
  • Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

Additional Expectations

  • Promote teamwork and a positive kitchen culture
  • Follow all company policies and regulatory requirements
  • Complete required training (including food safety)
  • Perform other duties as assigned

About Us

Aba

Located on South Congress at Music Lane, Aba, meaning father in Hebrew, is a Mediterranean restaurant with a California influence. With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef Alum, Chef Partner CJ Jacobson’s modern approach to Mediterranean cooking and the beverage program showcases spirits and rare wines from lesser-known Mediterranean regions.

Why Work With Lettuce?

Lettuce is a culinary-driven restaurant company with a genuine commitment to our people: we welcome unique perspectives and nurture diverse talents at 130+ locations, supported by our Culture of Caring. If you’re ready to be a part of what we do next, then explore your possibilities at Lettuce and apply today!