Job Description of a Head Chef

The official job duties of a head chef involve overseeing the operations of a kitchen. All kitchen staff report to the head chef. The head chef also determines which equipment and ingredients are necessary to keep in the inventory. She decides the menu, the specials, the frequency with which the menu changes, the sizes of portions and the garnishes that are used. But the position demands a host of other duties, skills and qualities, some of which may come as a surprise.

Features

Beyond doing the work of planning and executing cuisine, a head chef also must have public-relations skills. Keeping on top of customers' needs and the latest trends can keep a restaurant busy. These same skills apply to dealing with staff as well. While training them is key, it also important to socialize with them. Head chefs must also participate in tedious activities such as handling special menu requests or calling out orders. Reviewing the daily roster of tasks is important, because the head chef needs to be sure those tasks are distributed fairly. Head chefs should be prepared to market the restaurant by representing it in the public arena. Establishing good relationships with suppliers ensures that the restaurant will receive better discounts and contract terms.

Types

The job duties of a head chef vary depending upon the setting. Some chefs work in restaurants (either chain or individual). Some head chefs are on the staff at country clubs, a setting that demands experience in running banquets and catering special events. Head chefs may work in the hospitality industry, running kitchens for hotels, spas, cruise lines, resorts and clubs. They must be savvy with special menu requests and with maintaining high-quality ingredients. Head chefs who can create delicious and healthful alternatives do well in the health care industry. For those entering the field, it can be useful to take a post at a gourmet grocery store or specialty food shop. A more experienced head chef may pursue work as a private chef for a wealthy family, or for a corporation.

Expert Insight

Franc Lubbe, the executive chef at Mount Grace Country House and Spa, says that the profession "has gained respect worldwide..." But its greater visibility can carry the attendant misconception that a head chef leads the life of a celebrity. The fact is that being a head chef demands working beyond a 9-to-5 schedule, does not allow for clock watching and requires lots of sacrifice.

Significance

A position as a head chef is one of great responsibility, and it must be earned through preparation and experience. Mastering the job duties in an entry-level position can constitute the path to becoming a top head chef. Small pubs, high-end casual dining establishments or independent restaurants can all be good places to start. Attending culinary school is the typical educational background of a head chef. The coursework there covers food preparation, food presentation, food sanitation, service, technique and topics pertaining to the specific type of setting in which you wish to work.

Considerations

Just as job duties vary among head chefs, so do their salaries. The lower end of the salary scale is a disappointing $25,000 per year, as of 2008, but the high end--populated by pros who work as personal chefs for celebrities or as head chefs in five-star restaurants--tops $200,000 annually.

References

• TravelWires.com: To Be a Master Chef, You Have to Do the Time