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Trainee Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Your Job Koch Fertilizer Dodge City, LLC is looking for a Plant Operator Trainee to join our team. This is a great opportunity to learn about an industrial setting without any previous experience and ...

Sous Chef

Lafayette, IN

$48K - $64K/yr

A clear, defined pathway from a trainee to a full-fledged Sous Chef. * Competitive Compensation: Hourly pay rate with scheduled performance and compensation reviews as milestones are met. * Benefits ...

Sous Chef

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

A clear, defined pathway from a trainee to a full-fledged Sous Chef. * Competitive Compensation: Hourly pay rate with scheduled performance and compensation reviews as milestones are met. * Benefits ...

CHEF II

Berlin, NH · On-site

$17.81 - $23.39/hr

... CHEF II Position# 41475 $17.81/hour - $23.39/hour This position receives Hazardous Duty Pay, which ... An employee in trainee status shall meet the minimum qualifications within the period of time ...

CHEF II

Concord, NH · On-site

$17.81 - $23.39/hr

... CHEF II (open recruitment) $17.81/hour - $23.39/hour This position receives Hazardous Duty Pay ... An employee in trainee status shall meet the minimum qualifications within the period of time ...

Train, coach, and support Commis Chefs, Cooks, and culinary trainees. * Collaborate with the culinary team to deliver seamless service during breakfast, lunch, dinner, banquets, and special events.

Sous Chef Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$24.25 - $25.75/hr

Learn and work under the mentorship of Wegmans and Next Door chefs * Create excitement and educate others about specialty restaurants at Wegmans on topics such as cooking techniques, food and human ...

Chef de Partie

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Train, coach, and support Commis Chefs, Cooks, and culinary trainees. * Collaborate with the culinary team to deliver seamless service during breakfast, lunch, dinner, banquets, and special events.

Sous Chef Trainee

Pittsford, NY · On-site

$2.5K/day

Learn and work under the mentorship of Wegmans and Next Door chefs * C reate excitement and educate others about s pecialty restaurants at Wegmans on topics such as cooking techniques, food and human ...

Chef de Cuisine

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

Lead and mentor the chef trainees, setting an example of culinary expertise and positivity to consistently deliver exceptional food. * Guarantee the quality and presentation of food across all ...

Chef de Cuisine

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

Lead and mentor the chef trainees, setting an example of culinary expertise and positivity to consistently deliver exceptional food. * Guarantee the quality and presentation of food across all ...

Chef de Cuisine

Nashville, TN

$64K - $87K/yr

Lead and mentor the chef trainees, setting an example of culinary expertise and positivity to consistently deliver exceptional food. * Guarantee the quality and presentation of food across all ...

Chef de Cuisine

Sarasota, FL

$64K - $87K/yr

Lead and mentor the chef trainees, setting an example of culinary expertise and positivity to consistently deliver exceptional food. * Guarantee the quality and presentation of food across all ...

Chef de Cuisine

Tampa, FL · On-site

$62K - $86K/yr

Lead and mentor the chef trainees, setting an example of culinary expertise and positivity to consistently deliver exceptional food. * Guarantee the quality and presentation of food across all ...

Chef de Cuisine

Tampa, FL · On-site

$62K - $86K/yr

Lead and mentor the chef trainees, setting an example of culinary expertise and positivity to consistently deliver exceptional food. * Guarantee the quality and presentation of food across all ...

Chef de Cuisine

Tampa, FL

$62K - $86K/yr

Lead and mentor the chef trainees, setting an example of culinary expertise and positivity to consistently deliver exceptional food. * Guarantee the quality and presentation of food across all ...

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Trainee Chef information

See salary details

$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do trainee chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee chef in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee chef?

Trainee chefs are entry-level kitchen staff who are learning the fundamentals of food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen operations under the supervision of experienced chefs. Their duties often include assisting with basic food prep, maintaining cleanliness, and gradually taking on more complex cooking tasks as they gain experience. Trainee chefs are usually working towards becoming fully qualified chefs and may be part of an apprenticeship or formal culinary training program. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in a professional kitchen environment.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Chef, you need a basic understanding of culinary techniques, food safety, and often a relevant qualification such as a food hygiene certificate or culinary diploma. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and inventory management systems is typically expected. Strong teamwork, willingness to learn, time management, and resilience under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure food quality, maintain kitchen efficiency, and support smooth collaboration in a fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee chefs during their first few months on the job?

Trainee chefs often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the fast-paced kitchen environment, mastering basic techniques under pressure, and managing time efficiently during busy service hours. Learning to work harmoniously with a diverse kitchen team and adapting to the kitchen's specific workflow can also be demanding at first. However, with guidance from experienced chefs and a willingness to learn, trainees typically find themselves growing more confident and capable over time.

What is the difference between Trainee Chef vs Commis Chef?

AspectTrainee ChefCommis Chef
QualificationsOften no formal qualifications required; on-the-job trainingTypically has basic culinary training or certification
Work EnvironmentLearning-focused, entry-level kitchen settingEntry-level position in professional kitchens, assisting senior chefs
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with prep work, learning techniquesPerforming basic cooking tasks, supporting senior staff

Both roles are entry-level culinary positions, with Trainee Chefs focusing on learning and development, often without formal qualifications, while Commis Chefs usually have basic training and perform more defined kitchen tasks. The main difference lies in experience level and responsibilities, but both serve as stepping stones in a culinary career.

How do you become a trainee chef with no experience?

To become a trainee chef with no experience, you can apply for entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships at restaurants or culinary schools. Gaining basic cooking skills, demonstrating enthusiasm, and being willing to learn can improve your chances; some programs may also require a high school diploma or equivalent. Volunteering or working in food service can provide valuable experience and help you get started in the culinary industry.

How do you become a trainee chef?

To become a trainee chef, individuals typically complete relevant culinary education or training programs and gain practical experience through apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen roles. Developing cooking skills, understanding food safety standards, and demonstrating a strong work ethic are essential steps in starting a career as a trainee chef.

How much does a trainee chef earn?

A trainee chef typically earns between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on the location, establishment, and level of experience. Salaries may increase as they gain skills and complete certifications such as food safety or culinary courses.
More about Trainee Chef jobs

What cities are hiring for Trainee Chef jobs?

Cities with the most Trainee Chef job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs?

The most popular types of Chef jobs are:

What states have the most Trainee Chef jobs?

States with the most job openings for Trainee Chef jobs include:

Infographic showing various Trainee Chef job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Plant Operator Trainee

Koch Industries

Dodge City, KS • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Koch Industries rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Your Job
Koch Fertilizer Dodge City, LLC is looking for a Plant Operator Trainee to join our team. This is a great opportunity to learn about an industrial setting without any previous experience and grow a career! Whether you're coming from manufacturing, agriculture, construction, military service, transportation, or another hands-on industry, we'll provide the training needed to build a long-term career in fertilizer operations.
Our Benefits Package Includes:
  • Pay rates starting at $28/hr
  • Immediate Vacation Available - 120-hour annual allotment
  • Bonus eligibility - Including a $3,000 Sign-on bonus!
  • Automatic 401K company contribution along with competitive matching program
  • Excellent Health benefit options

Trainees will have hands on learning experience while working our 4 on/4 off, 12-hour shift, alternating days & nights.
What You Will Do
Performing tasks associated with safe production of fertilizer products, in an environmentally compliant and efficient manner following all plant policies and procedures Monitoring plant parameters (SOCL, Safe Operating Control Limits) and identify opportunities for correction and/or improvement Gathering samples and performing product tests to ensure quality Initiating daily inspections and walk down of critical equipment Performing minor maintenance on manufacturing equipment and support equipment Leveraging technology and systems to gather and interpret critical data points to the daily operation of the facility Proactively and deliberately advance the Principled Based Management (PBM®) culture within the team by demonstrating ownership, continuous learning, sound judgment, and a commitment to safe and efficient operations.
Who You Are (Basic Qualifications)
  • Work a rotating 12-hour shift including weekends, holidays, overtime, and callouts
  • Legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship.

Physical Requirements:
  • Required to wear any or all of the following PPE: safety glasses, hearing protection, goggles, hard hats, FRC, acid suits, breathing air, gloves, safety boots, respirators, and encapsulated suits. PPE use is in accordance with the Job Safety Analysis (JSA) for a given task
  • Ability to lift a minimum of 50lbs
  • Work in hot, cold, and inclement climate conditions and congested areas
  • Climb stairs, ladders, ladders on vessels and columns, ladders associated with scaffolds in excess of 160 feet

What Will Put You Ahead
  • Experience and application of safe work practices - Lock Out, Tag Out (LOTO); Job Safety Analysis (JSA)

At Koch companies, we are entrepreneurs. This means we openly challenge the status quo, find new ways to create value and get rewarded for our individual contributions. Any compensation range provided for a role is an estimate determined by available market data. The actual amount may be higher or lower than the range provided considering each candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, and geographic location. If you have questions, please speak to your recruiter about the flexibility and detail of our compensation philosophy.
Hiring Philosophy
All Koch companies value diversity of thought, perspectives, aptitudes, experiences, and backgrounds. We are Military Ready and Second Chance employers. Learn more about our hiring philosophy here .
Who We Are
As a Koch Ag & Energy Solutions company, Koch Fertilizer delivers a full line of fertilizers designed to boost crop performance and help growers reach their yields. Our team also brings logistical expertise and a wide range of invaluable services, from delivered freight and logistics capabilities to online shipment tracking.
At Koch, employees are empowered to do what they do best to make life better. Learn how our business philosophy helps employees unleash their potential while creating value for themselves and the company.
Our Benefits
Our goal is for each employee, and their families, to live fulfilling and healthy lives. We provide essential resources and support to build and maintain physical, financial, and emotional strength - focusing on overall wellbeing so you can focus on what matters most. Our benefits plan includes - medical, dental, vision, flexible spending and health savings accounts, life insurance, ADD, disability, retirement, paid vacation/time off, educational assistance, and may also include infertility assistance, paid parental leave and adoption assistance. Specific eligibility criteria is set by the applicable Summary Plan Description, policy or guideline and benefits may vary by geographic region. If you have questions on what benefits apply to you, please speak to your recruiter.
Additionally, everyone has individual work and personal needs. We seek to enable the best work environment that helps you and the business work together to produce superior results.
Equal Opportunities
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. Except where prohibited by state law, some offers of employment are conditioned upon successfully passing a drug test. This employer uses E-Verify. Please click here for additional information. (For Illinois E-Verify information click here , aquí , or tu ).

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