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Unit Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elior North America

Unit Chef

Owensboro, KY

As a unit chef, you will have the opportunity to supervise and participate in the preparation of meals for students & faculty. #LI-SC1 #BOOST What you'll be doing: * Planning, organizing, and ...

Elior North America

Unit Chef

Riverdale, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Unit Chef Job Reference Number: 39668 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand: Elior-School-Dining Location: Riverdale , Illinois (US-IL) The Role at a glance: We are looking to ...

Elior North America

Unit Chef

Riverdale, IL

$20/hr

Unit Chef Job Reference Number: 39668 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand: Elior-School-Dining Location: Riverdale , Illinois (US-IL) The Role at a glance: We are looking to ...

Elior North America

Unit Chef

Hot Springs, AR · On-site

$50K/yr

Unit Chef Job Reference Number: 39443 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand: Elior-Independent-School-Dining Location: Hot Springs National Park , Arkansas (US-AR) The Role at ...

Elior North America

Unit Chef

York, NE

Unit Chef Job Reference Number: 39663 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand: Elior-Collegiate-Dining Location: York , Nebraska (US-NE) The Role at a glance: We are looking to ...

Elior North America

Unit Chef

Owensboro, KY · On-site

As a unit chef, you will have the opportunity to supervise and participate in the preparation of meals for students & faculty. #LI-SC1 #BOOST What you'll be doing: * Planning, organizing, and ...

Elior-Independent-School-Dining

Unit Chef

Hot Springs, AR · On-site

$50K/yr

Unit Chef Job Reference Number: 39443 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand: Elior-Independent-School-Dining Location: Hot Springs National Park , Arkansas (US-AR) The Role at ...

Elior-Collegiate-Dining

Unit Chef

Owensboro, KY · On-site

$50K/yr

As a unit chef, you will have the opportunity to supervise and participate in the preparation of meals for students & faculty. #LI-SC1 #BOOST What you'll be doing: * Planning, organizing, and ...

Elior North America

Unit Chef

Hot Springs, AR

$50K/yr

Unit Chef Job Reference Number: 39443 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand: Elior-Independent-School-Dining Location: Hot Springs National Park , Arkansas (US-AR) The Role at ...

Elior North America

Unit Chef

York, NE · On-site

Unit Chef Job Reference Number: 39663 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand: Elior-Collegiate-Dining Location: York , Nebraska (US-NE) The Role at a glance: We are looking to ...

Elior North America

Unit Chef

Eastman, GA · On-site

$17/hr

Unit Chef Job Reference Number: 39799 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand: Elior-Collegiate-Dining Location: Eastman , Georgia (US-GA) The Role at a glance: We are looking to ...

Elior North America

Unit Chef

Eastman, GA

$17/hr

Unit Chef Job Reference Number: 39799 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand: Elior-Collegiate-Dining Location: Eastman , Georgia (US-GA) The Role at a glance: We are looking to ...

Highwater Management

Banquet Chef

Millsboro, DE · On-site

Chef Managers assist in building the business strategy for the unit, manage employee development and otherwise assist the General Manager in meeting or exceeding business objectives for the unit.

Elior-Independent-School-Dining

Sous Chef

Newmanstown, PA · On-site

$19.50/hr

We are looking to add an experienced, motivated Unit Chef to our team. As a floating chef, you will have the opportunity to supervise and participate in the preparation of meals for various locations ...

Elior-Independent-School-Dining

Sous Chef

Reading, PA · On-site

$19.50/hr

We are looking to add an experienced, motivated Unit Chef to our team. As a floating chef, you will have the opportunity to supervise and participate in the preparation of meals for various locations ...

Elior-Independent-School-Dining

Sous Chef

New Tripoli, PA · On-site

$19.50/hr

We are looking to add an experienced, motivated Unit Chef to our team. As a floating chef, you will have the opportunity to supervise and participate in the preparation of meals for various locations ...

Elior North America

Sous Chef

Hamburg, PA · On-site

$19.50/hr

We are looking to add an experienced, motivated Unit Chef to our team. As a floating chef, you will have the opportunity to supervise and participate in the preparation of meals for various locations ...

Elior-Independent-School-Dining

Sous Chef

Bernville, PA · On-site

$19.50/hr

We are looking to add an experienced, motivated Unit Chef to our team. As a floating chef, you will have the opportunity to supervise and participate in the preparation of meals for various locations ...

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All JobsUnit Chef Jobs

Unit Chef information

See salary details

$39K

$72.4K

$102K

How much do unit chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for unit chef in the United States is $72,401.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are unit chefs?

Unit chefs are culinary professionals responsible for managing the kitchen operations within a specific unit, such as a restaurant, cafeteria, or catering location. They oversee food preparation, menu planning, inventory control, and ensure compliance with food safety standards. Unit chefs also supervise kitchen staff, maintain quality control, and often collaborate with management to optimize food service operations. Their role is crucial in delivering consistent, high-quality meals and an efficient kitchen workflow.

What is commis 1, 2, and 3?

In the context of a Unit Chef or culinary roles, commis 1, 2, and 3 are different levels of junior kitchen staff, with commis 1 being entry-level, commis 2 having more experience, and commis 3 being more skilled and responsible. These levels often reflect experience, skills, and responsibilities within a professional kitchen, and progression typically requires gaining experience and developing culinary skills.

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

A Unit Chef requires strong culinary expertise, menu planning skills, and experience in kitchen management, often supported by a culinary arts degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications (such as ServSafe) is essential. Leadership, time management, and the ability to communicate clearly with kitchen staff are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure efficient kitchen operations, high food quality, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

What are some common challenges Unit Chefs face when managing kitchen operations in high-volume settings?

Unit Chefs often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent food quality under time pressure, efficiently coordinating with kitchen staff, and managing inventory to minimize waste. In high-volume environments, effective communication and organization are crucial to ensure orders are fulfilled accurately and on time. Additionally, Unit Chefs must adapt quickly to last-minute changes, such as unexpected staff shortages or supply issues, while upholding food safety standards. Overcoming these challenges requires strong leadership, flexibility, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

How much is a sous chef paid?

A sous chef's salary varies depending on location, experience, and establishment size, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. In high-end restaurants or large hotels, salaries can exceed $80,000, especially for those with advanced culinary skills and certifications. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What is the highest paying chef job?

The highest paying chef job is often that of an executive chef or head chef in high-end restaurants, hotels, or private clubs, with salaries reaching six figures or more. Specialized roles such as culinary directors or chefs with extensive experience and advanced certifications can also command higher salaries. Factors like location, reputation, and management responsibilities influence compensation levels.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can pay around $2000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, high-level consultants, and experienced legal professionals. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve demanding schedules or significant responsibilities.

What is the difference between Unit Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectUnit ChefLine Cook
CredentialsCulinary degree or equivalent experienceHigh school diploma or culinary training
Work EnvironmentKitchen in hospitals, military, or large institutionsRestaurant kitchen, fast-paced food service
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, military, institutionalRestaurants, hotels, catering
Role FocusOversees food prep, manages kitchen staff, ensures qualityPrepares dishes according to recipes, supports kitchen operations

The main difference between a Unit Chef and a Line Cook is that the Unit Chef typically has more managerial responsibilities and oversees food preparation in institutional settings, while a Line Cook focuses on preparing specific dishes in restaurant environments. Both roles require culinary skills, but the Unit Chef often has additional leadership duties and works in larger, more structured kitchens.

More about Unit Chef jobs
What cities are hiring for Unit Chef jobs? Cities with the most Unit Chef job openings:
What job categories do people searching Unit Chef jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Unit Chef jobs are:
Unit Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unit Chef job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,401 per year, or $34.8 per hour.
Unit Chef

Unit Chef

Elior North America

Owensboro, KY

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

The Role at a glance:

We are looking to add an experienced, motivated Unit Chef to our Collegiate Dining team in Owensboro. As a unit chef, you will have the opportunity to supervise and participate in the preparation of meals for students & faculty. 

#LI-SC1   #BOOST

What you'll be doing:
  • Planning, organizing, and supervising culinary operations of dining hall, retail and catering services. 
  • Planning menus based on various factors, such as market trends, customer preferences, and nutritional considerations. 
  • Conferring with food service director or other departments regarding daily aspects of dining service. 
  • Directing and coordinating the work of kitchen staff. 
  • Other tasks as assigned.    
What we're looking for:

Must-haves: 

  • Certification by a recognized culinary institution or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 
  • At least three years' experience in culinary management. 
  • Strong leadership and communication skills. 

Nice-to-haves: 

  • At least one years' experience in a similar role. 
Where you'll be working:

KY Wesleyan College 

Our Benefits:
  • Medical (FT Employees)
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Voluntary UNUM offering for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity
  • Discount Program
  • Commuter Benefits (Parking and Transit) 
  • EAP
  • 401k
  • Sick Time
  • Holiday Pay (9 paid holidays)
  • Tuition Reimbursement (FT Employees)
  • Paid Time Off 
Elior North America logo

About Elior North America

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Elior North America enhances people's lives through culinary innovation and a commitment to providing exemplary service. Our family of companies, with more than 17,000 employees, provides food services and catering to over 1,500 client accounts in five industry segments across the continental United States. We are proud to be the fifth largest culinary management company in the country and excited to be the fastest growing organization in the industry. We focus on three ingredients for success to differentiate Elior from our competitors and position our company as a disruptor in the markets we serve. To support our ingredients for success and drive our mission and values, we need talented team members throughout our family of companies.

Industry

Food and beverage stores

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2008

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