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Union Chef Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

North Carolina State University

Sous Chef

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$48K - $50K/yr

We are hiring a Sous Chef at the Talley Student Union. As a Sous Chef, you'll be part of a team that brings quality, care, and consistency to food served on campus. You will manage and monitor all ...

North Carolina State University

Sous Chef

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$48K - $50K/yr

We are hiring a Sous Chef at the Talley Student Union. As a Sous Chef, you'll be part of a team that brings quality, care, and consistency to food served on campus. You will manage and monitor all ...

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Union Chef information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$9

$23

$43

How much do union chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for union chef in Raleigh, NC is $23.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do chefs have a union?

Many professional chefs, including union chefs, work in environments where unions represent their interests, negotiate wages, and improve working conditions. Union membership for chefs is common in some restaurants, hotels, and culinary institutions, especially those with organized labor agreements. However, not all chefs are unionized, and union presence varies by location and employer.

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

To thrive as a Union Chef, you need advanced culinary skills, menu planning expertise, and often completion of a culinary arts program or apprenticeship, along with relevant food safety certifications. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and union workplace protocols is typically required. Strong leadership, teamwork, and time management skills set top chefs apart in managing kitchen staff and maintaining high service standards. These competencies ensure efficient operations, consistent food quality, and adherence to union regulations, which are crucial for success in this role.

What is a Union Chef?

A Union Chef is a professional chef who is a member of a labor union that represents culinary workers. These chefs typically work in environments where the workforce is unionized, such as hotels, convention centers, or large-scale dining establishments. Union chefs benefit from collectively bargained agreements that provide standardized wages, benefits, job security, and workplace protections. Their responsibilities are similar to those of other chefs, including menu planning, food preparation, and kitchen management, but they also adhere to the rules and guidelines set forth by their union.

What is the difference between Union Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectUnion ChefLine Cook
CredentialsMay require culinary certifications, union membershipTypically culinary training or experience
Work EnvironmentUnionized kitchens, structured work hoursVaries, often non-unionized kitchens
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large hotels, resorts, unionized restaurantsWidespread across various restaurants, non-union
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for union benefits, job stabilityCompared for entry-level roles, daily tasks

The main difference between a Union Chef and a Line Cook lies in union membership and work environment. Union Chefs are part of organized labor unions, often working in unionized establishments with structured benefits and work hours. Line Cooks are typically non-unionized, focusing on daily kitchen tasks. Both roles require culinary skills, but Union Chefs often have additional union-related credentials and job protections.

What are some unique challenges Union Chefs face when managing kitchen staff in a unionized environment?

Union Chefs often work within strict guidelines regarding scheduling, job duties, and workplace policies set by collective bargaining agreements. This means they must carefully coordinate staffing and task assignments while respecting seniority and union rules. Navigating these requirements can be challenging, especially during busy periods or when last-minute changes are needed. However, strong communication and collaboration with both staff and union representatives help ensure smooth operations and a positive work environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Union Chef jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Union Chef job openings:
Union Chef jobs near you
Sous Chef

Sous Chef

North Carolina State University

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$48K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

This posting is for multiple opportunities, and an application is required to be considered for both or either. To be considered for this opportuntiy, you MUST apply on our website by using one of or both of the following links:

  • Case Dining Hall: https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/228694
  • Talley Main Kitchen: https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/228327
Work Schedule: 40 hours per week, work hours may vary based on business needs; work schedule may include nights, weekends, and holidays. May be required to work some overtime.
Department:
NC State Dining.
About the Department:
Campus Enterprises is NC State University’s division of retail and hospitality organizations — NC State Dining, NC State Stores, Lonnie Poole Golf Course, NC State Student Centers (Witherspoon and Talley), and the One Card Office. Each department is dedicated to providing service excellence, value and enrichment of the student experience in support of academic success.

NC State Dining provides campus wide food services to students, staff, and faculty on the North Carolina State University Campus. NC State Dining operates 11 cafes, 3 food courts and 6 dining halls, 3 markets, 2 restaurants, vending, a nutritional counseling service, and a catering department. The department employs approximately 1000 temporary and student employees and approximately 190 permanent EHRA and SHRA employees.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits | As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision.
  • Flexible Spending Account.
  • Retirement Programs.
  • Disability Plans.
  • Life Insurance.
  • Accident Plan.
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs12 Holidays Each Year.
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance.
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties:
Bring your passion for food and teamwork to NC State Dining! We are hiring a Sous Chef at the Talley Student Union. As a Sous Chef, you’ll be part of a team that brings quality, care, and consistency to food served on campus. You will manage and monitor all activities in the kitchen, assign work to kitchen staff, enforce operational standards and serve as back-up to the unit chef in their absence.
Key responsibilities include but not limited to:
  • Follow and maintain the highest of culinary standards in all food areas, including the kitchen, serving line and display stations.
  • Responsible for the quality of the food to be cooked, seasoned, and held correctly, according to the set recipes, and presented in an attractive manner.
  • Execute the production of recipes required to fulfill the menu. Plan daily food production and assign staff accordingly to execute the plan.
  • Review daily production sheets and check preparations amounts for accuracy and coordinate the flow of food in the unit.
  • Maintain a clean, safe and efficient work environment in accordance with university and departmental guidelines.
  • Responsible for face to face customer service and satisfaction.
  • Communicate with personnel to ensure adequate amount of food for service while controlling overproduction.
  • Respond to operational needs and challenges with professionalism and adaptability.
  • May pick up or deliver food/supplies to other dining locations.
This role requires physical stamina, including the ability to lift 30 pounds above head and up to 60 pounds on rare occasions, work in hot and cold conditions, and safely handle sharp tools and hot surfaces (all with or without reasonable accommodations).
If you take pride in your work, enjoy being part of a collaborative team, and thrive in a dynamic environment where professionalism, adaptability, and customer service matter, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the heart of campus life.
Other Responsibilities:
  • Model the Division’s mission and values, introduce the Division’s mission and values to the employees, and foster a positive, cohesive workplace and congeniality among co-workers.
  • Understand the goals and culture of the organization, and understand how employees’ work activities, teamwork, and customer service impact clients. Work with your supervisor and colleagues to understand these goals and the culture.
  • Adhere to all University policies, procedures, and regulations, and Division standard operating practices and protocols.
  • Due to operational needs of the NC State Dining department, an employee may be assigned to work in any NC State Dining department including, but not limited to special events.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to ensure NC State Dining business needs are met.
Qualifications:
Minimum Experience/Education:
High School diploma or equivalency and one year of experience in food preparation or service activities in a commercial kitchen; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Certified Sous Chef (CSC) or higher.
  • Accredited culinary program certificate or associate degree in culinary arts.
  • Experience in high volume cooking (1000+ meals a day) in fine dining, fast casual dining, multi unit/concepts restaurant or private club. Short order or display cooking, buffet and/or plated meal experience.
  • Previous supervisory experience leading and motivating kitchen staff, ensuring efficient operations, and maintaining a positive work environment.
  • Proficiency in the use of computers including the ability to use or learn to use email, the ability to learn new software programs, and previous experience with computer food production programs such as Cbord.
Required License or Certification:
  • ServSafe Certification or the ability to obtain within 90 days of employment.
  • Certification must be maintained as a condition of employment.

EEO: NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

About North Carolina State University:

NC State is among the top 10 employers in North Carolina. Forbes annual survey of America’s best employers by state places NC State in ninth place in North Carolina. NC State embodies a culture that values collaboration, creativity, innovation, diversity, and teamwork. We provide a team-oriented culture, work/life balance, and work that makes a difference in our community, the state, and beyond.Campus Enterprises is NC State University’s division of retail and hospitality organizations — NC State Dining, NC State Stores, Lonnie Poole Golf Course, NC State Student Centers (Witherspoon and Talley), and the One Card Office. Each unit shares a common goal: deliver quality and efficient services with dedicated financial support for student activity and scholarships.NC State’s Campus Enterprises division offers a unique opportunity to pursue a career in retail, hospitality or related business functions in the rewarding setting of higher education.

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About North Carolina State University

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North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887

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