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Trainee Chef Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

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Trainee Chef information

See Ohio salary details

$24.2K

$41.4K

$60.4K

How much do trainee chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee chef in Ohio is $41,384.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,400.00 and $48,500.00 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 Ohio? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Chef jobs in Ohio? For Trainee Chef jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Chef jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Chef jobs in Ohio are:
Trainee Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Chef job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,384 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

CDL Class A Delivery Truck Driver Trainee

Performance Foodservice

Columbus, OH • On-site

$24.72/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Performance Food Group rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 49 rated food wholesalers

Job description

Job Description:

Position Details:
  • WE ARE GROWING!
  • Starting pay $24.72 per hour 
  • 4 Day Work Week (after training)
  • Shift dispatch time between 4am-6am start time.
We Deliver the Goods:
  • Competitive pay and benefits, including Day 1 Health & Wellness Benefits, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, 401K Employer Matching, Education Assistance, Paid Time Off, and much more
  • Growth opportunities performing essential work to support America’s food distribution system
  • Safe and inclusive working environment, including culture of rewards, recognition, and respect
Position Purpose:
This is an entry level driver training role. This driver is responsible for learning to and/or gaining experience in driving a tractor trailer or straight truck intrastate and/or interstate on local, over-the-toad (OTR), shuttle, and/or overnight routes to deliver and unload various food and food related products to customers. All routes are expected to be completed safely in accordance with all Company policies and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. The Driver Trainee communicates and interacts with customers, vendors and co-workers professionally ensuring all services and duties are executed in accordance with preferred work methods and customer service practices. Functions as a team member within the department and organization, as required, and performs any duty assigned to best serve the company.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Attends and successfully completes PFG Entry Level Driver Trainee or Dock to Driver Training Program as required.  All training documentation is completed and maintained per requirements. 
  • Rides-with and assists driver trainer in executing deliveries as required. Follow all instructions and directions provided by driver trainer. 
  • Perform all required safety checks (i.e. pre/post trip) including inspections of tractor/truck and trailer according to Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations; inspect tractor/truck and trailer to insure they meet company safety standards and take appropriate action as needed. Report all safety issues and/or repairs required. 
  • Follow all DOT regulations and company safe driving guidelines and policies. Immediately report any and all safety hazards. 
  • Inspect trailer for properly loaded and secured freight. Perform count check of items and check customer invoices of products that have been loaded. Check and complete in an accurate and in legible fashion all required paperwork associated with freight. Move tractor to the loading dock and attach preloaded trailer as needed.  
  • Drive to and deliver customer orders according to predetermined route delivery schedule. 
  • Unload products from the trailer, transport items into designated customer storage areas. Perform damage control checks on items, scanning and contact supervisor about removing orders according to company policy. Verify delivery of items with customer and obtain proper signatures. Collect money (cash or checks) where required. Load customer returns on to trailer and secure trailer doors. 
  • Ensure that tractor, trailer and freight are appropriately locked and/or secured at all times. 
  • Unload damaged goods and customer returns and bring to the driver check-in and complete necessary paperwork. Unload all equipment, materials and remove trash from trailers as required.
  • Complete daily record of hours of service and enter in log in accordance with Federal DOT, state and company requirements.
  • Perform general housekeeping duties in tractor, loading dock area and keep trailers clear and clean as required. At the end of the shift secure all equipment and complete all necessary paperwork. 
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

High School Diploma/GED or Equivalent
• Internal PFG Candidates: 1 year of service in good standing as outlined in the PFG Entry Level Driver Trainee or Dock to Driver Training Program, able to attain CDL Permit and DOT Health Card
• External Entry Level Hire: 0-6 months commercial driving experience
• Valid CDL A
• Must be 21 years of age
• Meet all State licensing and/or certification requirements
(where applicable)
• Clean Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) for past 3 years
• Pass post offer drug test
• Pass road test
• Attains or has valid current DOT Health Card
• Able to hand-lift and utilize two-wheeler, lift gate and/or other equipment to move and/or stack product cases/freight of varying size and weight throughout shift; product generally ranges from approximately 60 to 90 pounds, depending on the location

Company description


Performance Foodservice, PFG’s broadline distributor, maintains a unique relationship with a variety of local customers, including independent restaurants and hotels, healthcare facilities, schools, and quick-service eateries. A team of sales reps, chefs, consultants, and other experts builds close relationships with customers — providing advice on improving operations, menu development, product selection, and operational strategies. The Performance team delivers delicious food but also goes above and beyond to help independent restaurant owners achieve their dreams.

Awards and Accolades

Performance Food Group and/or its subsidiaries (individually or collectively, the "Company") provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all applicants and employees, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations. Please click on the following links to review: (1) our EEO Policy; (2) the "EEO is the Law" poster and supplement; and (3) the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.

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