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Unit Executive Chef Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Eurest

EXECUTIVE CHEF- NORMAL, IL

Normal, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

As a member of Eurest's leadership and professional support team, you will help our 16,000 chefs, and in-unit associates excel as they deliver world-class meals in corporate cafes and executive ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE CHEF- NORMAL, IL

Normal, IL

$100K - $120K/yr

As a member of Eurest's leadership and professional support team, you will help our 16,000 chefs, and in-unit associates excel as they deliver world-class meals in corporate cafes and executive ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE CHEF- NORMAL, IL

Normal, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

As a member of Eurest's leadership and professional support team, you will help our 16,000 chefs, and in-unit associates excel as they deliver world-class meals in corporate cafes and executive ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE CHEF- NORMAL, IL

Normal, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

As a member of Eurest's leadership and professional support team, you will help our 16,000 chefs, and in-unit associates excel as they deliver world-class meals in corporate cafes and executive ...

Emmett's Brewing Company

Executive Chef

West Dundee, IL · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

CHEF Reports To: General Manager Summary of Position: Directly responsible for all kitchen ... unit count and condition, and deliveries are performed in accordance with the restaurant ...

Beatnik

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $58K/yr

The Sous Chef will play a crucial role in assisting the Executive Chef in all aspects of kitchen ... Ensure that all products are received in the correct unit count and condition and deliveries are ...

ssagroup

$47K - $63K/yr

Executive Chef Who are we : For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to ... Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On ...

ssagroup

$47K - $63K/yr

Executive Chef Who are we : For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to ... Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On ...

Ballyhoo Hospitality

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

The Sous Chef will play a crucial role in assisting the Executive Chef in all aspects of kitchen ... Ensure that all products are received in the correct unit count and condition and deliveries are ...

Zenzi Den

Sous Chef

Glenview, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

The Sous Chef will play a crucial role in assisting the Executive Chef in all aspects of kitchen ... Ensure that all products are received in the correct unit count and condition and deliveries are ...

Emmett's Brewing Company

Sous Chef

West Dundee, IL · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Executive Chef Summary of Position: Directly responsible for all kitchen functions including food ... unit count and condition, and deliveries are performed in accordance with the restaurant ...

Maple

Maple & Ash Chicago - Chef De Cuisine

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

... unit scalability. This role demands a rare hybrid of elite creativity and industrial-grade ... Partner with marketing on launches and maintain clear lines of communication with Executive Chefs ...

Plymouth Place, Inc.

Cook (Part-time)

IL · On-site

$18.56 - $21.37/hr

To prepare and serve food products as directed by the Executive Chef and production recipes ... Unit. • Follow procedures for safe food handling and storage. • Maintain standards of ...

Plymouth Place

Cook (Part-time)

La Grange Park, IL · On-site

$18.56 - $21.37/hr

To prepare and serve food products as directed by the Executive Chef and production recipes ... are Unit. · Follow procedures for safe food handling and storage. · Maintain standards of ...

ssagroup

Food Service Operations Manager(s) and Executive Chef Who are we : For more than 50 years, SSA has ... Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On ...

ssagroup

Food Service Operations Manager(s) and Executive Chef Who are we : For more than 50 years, SSA has ... Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On ...

ssagroup

Food Service Operations Manager(s) and Executive Chef Who are we : For more than 50 years, SSA has ... Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On ...

ssagroup

Food Service Operations Manager(s) and Executive Chef Who are we : For more than 50 years, SSA has ... Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF - MOSSVILLE, IL

Mossville, IL

$50K - $60K/yr

As a member of Eurest's leadership and professional support team, you will help our 16,000 chefs, and in-unit associates excel as they deliver world-class meals in corporate cafes and executive ...

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All JobsUnit Chef JobsUnit Executive Chef JobsUnit Executive Chef Jobs in Illinois

Unit Executive Chef information

What is a unit executive chef?

A Unit Executive Chef is the head chef responsible for managing all culinary operations within a specific restaurant, hotel, or food service unit. They oversee menu development, food preparation, kitchen staff, budgeting, and ensure high standards of food quality and safety. In addition to cooking, they play a key leadership role, often collaborating with management and other departments to deliver an exceptional dining experience. Their responsibilities may also include training staff, ordering supplies, and maintaining compliance with health regulations.

How does a unit executive chef balance administrative duties with hands-on kitchen leadership?

A Unit Executive Chef is responsible for both overseeing kitchen operations and managing administrative tasks such as budgeting, menu planning, and staff scheduling. Balancing these responsibilities often involves delegating day-to-day cooking tasks to sous chefs and senior line cooks, while staying actively involved in quality control and team development. Effective time management and clear communication are key, as the Executive Chef must ensure high culinary standards are met while also handling payroll, ordering supplies, and liaising with front-of-house management. This dual focus allows the chef to maintain a strong presence in the kitchen while ensuring the business side runs smoothly.

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

To thrive as a Unit Executive Chef, you need advanced culinary expertise, menu planning abilities, and substantial experience in kitchen management, typically backed by a culinary degree or equivalent professional experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food safety certifications (such as ServSafe), and inventory management systems is essential. Leadership, creativity, and strong communication skills help foster a productive team environment and deliver exceptional dining experiences. These skills ensure high-quality food standards, efficient operations, and satisfied clients or guests.

What is the difference between Unit Executive Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectUnit Executive ChefLine Cook
CredentialsCulinary degree, extensive experience, leadership skillsBasic culinary training, kitchen experience
Work EnvironmentKitchen management, overseeing kitchen operationsFood preparation on the line during service
Employer & Industry UsageHotels, resorts, large restaurantsRestaurants, catering services
Search & Comparison IntentManagement, leadership, kitchen oversightCooking, food prep, station work

The Unit Executive Chef typically manages kitchen operations, supervises staff, and ensures quality standards, requiring more experience and leadership skills. In contrast, a Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes during service, with less managerial responsibility. Both roles are essential in culinary settings but differ significantly in scope and responsibilities.

How much is a unit executive chef paid?

A unit executive chef's salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on the location, size of the establishment, and level of experience. They often receive additional benefits such as bonuses, health insurance, and paid time off, and may oversee multiple kitchen staff and operations.

Is a unit executive chef higher than a chef?

A unit executive chef is a higher-ranking culinary leader responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations within a specific unit or location, including managing staff, menu development, and quality control. They typically hold more authority and have greater responsibilities than a standard chef, who usually focuses on food preparation and cooking tasks. The title reflects a leadership position within the culinary hierarchy, often requiring management experience and culinary certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Unit Executive Chef jobs in Illinois?

For Unit Executive Chef jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Unit Executive Chef jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Unit Executive Chef jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Unit Executive Chef jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Unit Executive Chef job openings:

Unit Executive Chef jobs near you

EXECUTIVE CHEF- NORMAL, IL

Eurest

Normal, IL • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Oversee all culinary functions for a dining account.

  • Manage and lead a team of associates, ensuring safety and sanitation standards are met.

  • Plan and create all menus, purchase supplies, and manage inventory.

Eurest Services rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 68 rated caterers

Job description

Position Title: EXECUTIVE CHEF- NORMAL, IL 

Salary: $100,000 - $120,000

Other Forms of Compensation: Relocation Assistance 

As the leader in business and industry dining, Eurest is the company to join if you want a rewarding career packed with limitless opportunities. We feed the employees of the nation's largest and most-prestigious companies -- in every state and across all industries. As a member of Eurest's leadership and professional support team, you will help our 16,000 chefs, and in-unit associates excel as they deliver world-class meals in corporate cafes and executive dining rooms with on-site catering through vending innovations and more.

Our company is innovative, high performing and fast growing. Our teammates are enthusiastic, committed to quality and thrive on consistently delivering unparalleled results. And did we mention we work with exciting companies and at interesting locations? Come grow your career with Eurest.

This position is eligible for an Employee Referral Bonus! If you know someone that is qualified for this role, please use the ‘job search’ in MyOpportunity to refer your referral and email them a link to apply. Your referral will be able to apply by clicking the link in the email then you can check the status under Careers in MyOpportunity by clicking on ‘referral tracking.’ For Employee Referral guidelines, FAQs and the Compass Employee Referral Policy, email MyReferral@compass-usa.com. Click here to view the step-by-step instructions to refer a friend to this position.

Job Summary

Job Summary:

Working as an Executive Chef, you are responsible for overseeing all culinary functions for a dining account.  You will manage and lead a team of associates and oversee all safety and sanitation as it pertains to the account. Additionally, as part of the culinary team, you will be responsible for the following: 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Manages cost controls and controls expenditures for the account
  • Plans and creates all menus
  • Purchases and manages inventory
  • Rolls out new culinary programs in conjunction with marketing and culinary team

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Culinary degree preferred
  • Three to five years of culinary management experience
  • High volume production and catering experience is essential
  • Previous experience managing cost controls
  • Desire to learn and grow with a top notch foodservice company

Apply to Eurest today!

Eurest is a member of Compass Group USA

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/2026_Wage-Transparency_Eurest.pdf

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Eurest maintains a drug-free workplace.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

What Eurest Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Eurest logo

About Eurest

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Eurest is recognized worldwide for standards of service and excellence within the foodservice industry. Embracing an ownership mindset, Eurest leverages global resources, promotes a local presence and enriches the communities we serve. The Eurest Promise, "connect with people, inspire through food, create solutions, and live our promise," is exemplified throughout our organization. Eurest is proud to serve the world's most respected successful corporations, including many of the Fortune 500.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1996

Social media

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