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Trainee Chef Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

As a culinary professional at Wegmans, you'll have the opportunity to join an energizing, collaborative team led by some of the best chefs in the industry. Our store is your pantry-with access to the ...

As a culinary professional at Wegmans, you'll have the opportunity to join an energizing, collaborative team led by some of the best chefs in the industry. Our store is your pantry-with access to the ...

Pharmacy Technician Trainee

Newark, NY · On-site

$19 - $19.50/hr

Gold Pan Meals, Chef Eric (Video, Opens in Modal) Developing delicious meals Learn More * Meet Hachi (Video, Opens in Modal) Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Learn More * Behind the ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

East Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Fairport, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Pittsford, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Brockport, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Brockport, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

Sushi Cook Trainee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

You will work alongside experienced sushi chefs, learning traditional techniques and perfecting your craft in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare ingredients ...

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Showing results 1-20

Trainee Chef information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do trainee chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee chef in Rochester, NY is $42,970.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,300.00 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 to work as a chef with no experience?

To work as a trainee chef with no experience, start by gaining basic culinary skills through online courses or cooking classes. Seek entry-level positions such as kitchen porter or prep cook to learn on the job, and consider obtaining a food safety certification to improve your employability. Gaining hands-on experience and demonstrating a willingness to learn are key steps in advancing as a chef.

How to become a trainee chef?

To become a trainee chef, you typically need to complete relevant culinary training or education, such as a culinary diploma or apprenticeship, and gain practical experience in a kitchen environment. Strong cooking skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and the ability to work under pressure are essential for entry-level chef roles.

Is 30 too late to become a chef?

Trainee chefs can start at any age, including 30 or older, as the culinary industry values skills, experience, and dedication. Many successful chefs began their careers later in life, and gaining relevant training or certifications can help accelerate progress in the profession.

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 minimum wage and $12 to $15 per hour, depending on the location, establishment, and level of experience. Salaries can increase as they gain skills, certifications, and move into more advanced roles within the kitchen environment.

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 are trainee chefs?

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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Chef jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Chef jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Trainee Chef jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Trainee Chef job openings:
Sushi Cook Trainee

Sushi Cook Trainee

Wegmans

Rochester, NY • On-site

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday


Wegmans Food Markets rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 815 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 120 rated grocery stores


Job description

As a culinary professional at Wegmans, you'll have the opportunity to join an energizing, collaborative team led by some of the best chefs in the industry. Our store is your pantry-with access to the world's best ingredients as you create innovative dishes that our customers love. In our people-first kitchens, you'll find endless growth opportunities, unparalleled work-life flexibility, and incredible benefits.

What Wegmans Food Markets employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Wegmans Food Markets logo

About Wegmans Food Markets

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Wegmans Food Markets, situated in Rochester, NY, US, is a widely recognized name in the retail grocery industry. The company was founded in 1916 by Walter Wegman as Rochester Fruit and Vegetable Company and has since been providing a diverse series of high-quality grocery products. It is built on the mission of “helping families live healthier, better lives through food.” Core values of caring, high standards, making a difference, respect, and empowerment drive the firm to uphold its quality, bringing every meal an opportunity for happiness. Wegmans has been celebrated with multiple accolades and was named the best grocery chain in the U.S. by Food & Wine in 2020.

Industry

Food and beverage stores

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US

Year founded

1916