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Traveling Executive Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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What You'll Do As a traveling Executive Chef, you'll lead all aspects of field kitchen operations, including: * Leading culinary teams of approximately 30 team members * Maintaining exceptional food ...

Posted today

Be Seen First

What You'll Do As a traveling Executive Chef, you'll lead all aspects of field kitchen operations, including: * Leading culinary teams of approximately 30 team members * Maintaining exceptional food ...

Posted today

HHS is seeking a high-energy, adaptable Executive Chef. In this role, you will act as our "Culinary Special Ops," traveling 100% of the time to healthcare facilities across the region to launch new ...

HHS is seeking a high-energy, adaptable Executive Chef. In this role, you will act as our "Culinary Special Ops," traveling 100% of the time to healthcare facilities across the region to launch new ...

Working as the Executive Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations while maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment for the staff. You will prepare or direct the ...

Working as the Executive Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations while maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment for the staff. You will prepare or direct the ...

Working as the Executive Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations while maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment for the staff. You will prepare or direct the ...

EXECUTIVE CHEF - Travel

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

TRAVEL- Executive Chef An organized leader who is not afraid to roll up their sleeves to ensure the overall success of daily kitchen operations including training and food preparation. The Executive ...

EXECUTIVE CHEF - Travel

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

TRAVEL- Executive Chef An organized leader who is not afraid to roll up their sleeves to ensure the overall success of daily kitchen operations including training and food preparation. The Executive ...

... travel, as needed * Move and lift up to 10 pounds, frequently move and/or lift up to 25 pounds ... Executive Chef experience in a full-service restaurant * Ability to lead and develop teams

Executive Chef

Austin, TX · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

... travel, as needed * Move and lift up to 10 pounds, frequently move and/or lift up to 25 pounds ... Executive Chef experience in a full-service restaurant * Ability to lead and develop teams

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Traveling Executive Chef information

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$40K

$86.9K

$130K

How much do traveling executive chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for traveling executive chef in the United States is $86,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a traveling executive chef?

A traveling executive chef is a highly skilled culinary professional who oversees kitchen operations at various locations rather than being based in one specific restaurant or venue. They may travel nationally or internationally to help open new restaurants, consult on menus, train kitchen staff, or provide temporary leadership during transitions. This role requires adaptability, excellent organizational skills, and deep culinary expertise to maintain high standards across different environments. Traveling executive chefs often work for hospitality groups, luxury resorts, or as independent consultants. Their work ensures consistency and quality while bringing creativity and fresh perspectives to each location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a traveling executive chef?

To thrive as a Traveling Executive Chef, you need expert culinary skills, menu development experience, and a background in kitchen management, often supported by a culinary degree or certification. Familiarity with inventory systems, food safety certifications, and proficiency in using commercial kitchen equipment are standard requirements. Strong leadership, cultural adaptability, and excellent communication enable success across diverse teams and locations. These skills ensure consistent food quality, efficient operations, and the ability to deliver exceptional dining experiences in various environments.

What are some unique challenges faced by traveling executive chefs compared to stationary executive chefs?

Traveling Executive Chefs often encounter the challenge of adapting quickly to new kitchens, teams, and local ingredients in each location. They must be highly flexible and resourceful, as they are responsible for maintaining culinary standards while often working with unfamiliar equipment or suppliers. Additionally, building rapport with new staff and adjusting to varying workplace cultures can be demanding, but these experiences also foster strong leadership and problem-solving skills. Frequent travel requires excellent organization and time management to ensure smooth operations across multiple sites.

What is the difference between Traveling Executive Chef vs Executive Sous Chef?

AspectTraveling Executive ChefExecutive Sous Chef
CredentialsCulinary degree, extensive experience, leadership skillsCulinary degree, sous chef experience, leadership skills
Work EnvironmentMultiple locations, often luxury hotels, cruise ships, or resortsKitchen of a single restaurant or hotel
Employer & IndustryHospitality, catering, cruise linesHotels, restaurants, hospitality industry
Search & Comparison IntentYesLess common

The Traveling Executive Chef oversees culinary operations across multiple locations, requiring adaptability and leadership, while the Executive Sous Chef manages daily kitchen activities within a single establishment. Both roles demand culinary expertise and leadership skills, but the Traveling Executive Chef's role involves frequent travel and broader oversight.

More about Traveling Executive Chef jobs

What cities are hiring for Traveling Executive Chef jobs?

Cities with the most Traveling Executive Chef job openings:

What states have the most Traveling Executive Chef jobs?

States with the most job openings for Traveling Executive Chef jobs include:

Infographic showing various Traveling Executive Chef job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,886 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Traveling Executive Chef

Sharp Spoon Network

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$75K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 hours ago

Posted today

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Job description

Job Overview

Nationwide Travel | Disaster Response | Data Center Operations


This is a nationwide travel position. The job is not based in Kansas City. Candidates may reside anywhere in the United States and must be willing to travel nationwide.


Up to $87k Annually (including over time) + 4 months off a year
4 months off a year
Weekly Pay
Nationwide Deployment
Approximately 30 Days On / 14 Days Off


Lead High-Volume Kitchens Across the Country


Sharp Spoon Network has been retained to recruit traveling Executive Chefs on behalf of a nationally recognized leader in disaster response, remote workforce support, and large-scale culinary operations.


This is not a traditional restaurant position.


You'll lead culinary teams supporting data centers, disaster recovery efforts, military operations, and remote workforce camps across the United States. Every deployment presents new challenges, new locations, and the opportunity to lead high-performing teams in fast-paced environments.


If you're looking for the same kitchen every day, this isn't the right fit.


If you thrive under pressure, enjoy leading teams, and want a career that combines culinary leadership with travel and adventure, we'd love to speak with you.


What You'll Do

As a traveling Executive Chef, you'll lead all aspects of field kitchen operations, including:

  • Leading culinary teams of approximately 30 team members
  • Maintaining exceptional food quality and service standards
  • Managing food inventory and labor scheduling
  • Supporting food cost management
  • Assisting with menu planning and client requests
  • Coaching and developing kitchen staff
  • Solving operational challenges in remote environments
  • Ensuring meals are delivered safely, efficiently, and on schedule


This is a hands-on leadership role. Our best leaders aren't afraid to step into the kitchen when needed.


Typical Projects

Assignments may include:

  • Data center support
  • Disaster relief operations
  • Military support
  • Remote workforce camps
  • Corporate hospitality and special events

Projects vary throughout the year, and deployments may occur anywhere in the United States.


Travel & Deployment

This position requires:

  • Nationwide travel
  • Approximately 30-day deployments
  • Approximately 14 days off between deployments
  • Twelve-hour shifts during deployments
  • Hotel accommodations when available
  • Remote projects may require man camp housing
  • Company-paid travel for qualifying deployments


If you're excited by travel and enjoy working in unique environments, this role offers experiences unlike traditional culinary positions.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Ten or more years of culinary leadership experience
  • Experience leading high-volume food service operations including menu development, and food cost management
  • Experience supervising cooks or kitchen staff (managing labor costs)
  • Strong leadership and communication skills
  • Valid driver's license
  • Reliable transportation
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Ability to pass a background check
  • Ability to pass required drug screening
  • Willingness to travel nationwide for extended deployments (50% - 75%)


Preferred Experience

Experience in one or more of the following is highly valued:

  • Corporate dining
  • University dining
  • Healthcare food service
  • Military food service
  • Hospitality or resorts
  • Large-scale catering
  • Remote or mobile kitchen operations


What Makes Someone Successful

The strongest candidates are:

  • Calm under pressure
  • Natural leaders
  • Adaptable problem solvers
  • Comfortable making decisions independently
  • Passionate about developing teams
  • Willing to lead from the front
  • Excited by travel and new challenges


Compensation & Benefits

  • Starting pay of approximately $25/hour + Mandatory Overtime
  • Weekly pay
  • Company-paid travel when applicable
  • Lodging provided during deployments
  • Company laptop, cell phone, and corporate credit card
  • Opportunity to transition into long-term leadership roles based on performance


About This Opportunity

Sharp Spoon Network has been retained to recruit qualified candidates on behalf of our client. Selected candidates will become employees of our client, not Sharp Spoon Network.

Position details, compensation, schedules, project assignments, and benefits are provided by our client and may be adjusted during the hiring process based on business needs.