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Trainee Chef Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Performance Foodservice

Truck Driver CDL A

Park Hills, MO · On-site

$30.90/hr

The Driver Trainee communicates and interacts with customers, vendors and co-workers professionally ... A team of sales reps, chefs, consultants, and other experts builds close relationships with ...

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All JobsChef JobsTrainee Chef JobsTrainee Chef Jobs in Missouri

Trainee Chef information

See Missouri salary details

$23.9K

$40.8K

$59.6K

How much do trainee chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee chef in Missouri is $40,832.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $47,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 important steps in starting a career as a trainee chef.

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 field.

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.

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.

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.

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 most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Missouri? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Missouri are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Chef jobs in Missouri? For Trainee Chef jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Chef jobs in Missouri look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Chef jobs in Missouri are:
Trainee Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Chef job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,832 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

NRT Program Coordinator - Energy, Matters and Systems - UMKC School of Science and Engineering

UMKC

Kansas City, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

University Of Missouri-Kansas City rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

288th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Hiring Department
Energy, Matters and Systems
University of Missouri - Kansas City
The UMKC School of Science and Engineering where cutting-edge technology, experimentation, learning, and discovery intersect.
UMKC is rated R1 by the Carnegie Research Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
Job Description
The School of Science and Engineering at UMKC is hiring a Program Coordinator (Sr. Research Assistant) for an NSF (National Science Foundation) Research Traineeship (NRT) project, entitled: Interdisciplinary Graduate Training through Research in Artificial Intelligence and Secure Networked Sensing to Mitigate the Crisis of Alcohol and Drug Abuse .
This NRT project will address the need of trained workforce and innovators in this field by preparing master and doctoral students to make convergent research contributions in the interdisciplinary fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and secure networked sensing to tackle the growing alcohol and drug crisis.
The project will provide a unique and comprehensive training opportunity for up to 120 graduate students, including 20 funded trainees, by combining the disciplines of AI, communication networks, cybersecurity, sensor technologies, interactions with healthcare and legal partners, and a culture of innovation and translational research that considers human factors, law, regulation, communication, and leadership.
The Project Coordinator will be responsible for:
  • The management and coordination of the NRT project activities that include: (1) trainee recruitment, (2) tracking trainee progress, (3) evaluation support and guidance, etc.
  • Ensuring the overall active participation of trainees and faculty in the program activities.
  • Organizing and implementing the annual summer 1-week workshop (summer camp) and other regular seminars.
  • Overseeing new trainee research efforts that are developed via NRT program activities.
  • Managing the program/project communication (flyers, posters, presentations, website, etc..) and establishing internal/external partnerships.
  • Be in charge of monthly/bi-weekly collaboration meetings and follow-ups.
  • Coordinate for future funding opportunities.
  • Coordinate for degree program updates/opportunities.
  • Organize advisory board meetings and be the point of contact for communication and tasks.
  • Supporting the Program Director (PD) in generating and submitting program reports.
  • Providing the necessary inputs which would assist the PD in budgeting, managing, and reporting on the finances of the project.
  • Work closely with the PD on the costs and expenditures and ensure that all the logistics are in place.

Full-time [100% FTE], benefit-eligible, unranked 12-month academic appointment.
Qualifications
Must have a Master or equivalent degree.
Anticipated Hiring Range
Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Application Materials
To be considered, you must complete the application at https://www.umkc.edu/hr/careers/ including Legal Name, US employment eligibility, and current contact information. Upload all application materials (a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, a list of references).
If you are experiencing technical problems, please email umpshrsupport@umsystem.edu.
For questions about the position, please contact umkcfacultysearch@umkc.edu include the Job Identification number 60565 and the name of the position.
Handling of Application Materials
After initial review by the committee all uploaded materials may be shared with all faculty in the prospective home department. For affiliations and joint appointments materials may be shared with all faculty in all departments involved.
Application Deadline
This position will remain open until filled.
Sponsorship Information
Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Other Information
For more details regarding this project please follow the NSF link below:
https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2152057&HistoricalAwards=false
For more information about the UMKC School of Science and Engineering, visit:
https://sse.umkc.edu/
Community Information
Kansas City offers the best of both worlds-a vibrant, urban community with Midwestern appeal. The city's rich history and its modern-day, innovative thinking come together to create an eclectic group of neighborhoods that offer a little something for everyone. From thriving arts districts, an energetic downtown nightlife, casual to upscale shopping and champion sports teams, you will have no problem making yourself at home. Of course, one of Kansas City's biggest claims to fame is its food, especially its world-famous barbecue. Foodies will delight in the culinary scene found throughout the city. Ranging from award-winning chefs to cozy pizza joints, Kansas City definitely is not lacking any flavor.
UMKC's campuses are conveniently nestled in the middle of all the action. Volker Campus is just minutes from the legendary Country Club Plaza, perfect for shopping or restaurants for lunch or after-work happy hours. Surrounded by hip neighborhoods and eateries, the Health Sciences Campus is located downtown near University Health Truman Medical Center and Children's Mercy Hospital.
UMKC is proud to be "Kansas City's university," and the campus and its people celebrate all the characteristics of the surrounding community. To learn more about life in Kansas City and find more resources, visit VisitKC.com.
Benefit Eligibility
This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 816-235-6910.

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