Head Chef Resume Example + Salaries, Writing tips & Information

By Nilda Melissa Diaz, CPRW, Career Advice Expert •Last Updated: December 21, 2022

30% higher chance of getting a job‡
42% higher response rate from recruiters‡

The restaurant industry is a competitive field and it may seem impossible to land a job as a head chef. A head chef needs to be creative, energetic, and authoritative. Restaurant run on very thin margins, and potential employers will want to know that you can help keep their restaurant open, popular, and profitable. Your resume needs to communicate your experience, qualifications, and expertise to potential employers.

The role of the head chef requires a special mix of skills. You need to be able to develop and exciting and enticing menu, manage a very busy kitchen and make sure that the kitchen meets industry and health code standards. Employers therefore need someone who is an effective manager and a wonderful chef. Your resume needs to reflect these qualities. Note any specializations and certifications on your resume. If you have experience in fine dining, large scale catering, or other niche areas, let potential employers know. This kind of information will help you stand out from the pack.

See the head chef sample resume below to help you write your own resume.

Head Chef cover letter writing skills? Use our cover letter sample to polish your skills and get the job you want.

Resume Text

Pierre Garcon

123 Fake Street
City, State, Zip Code
Cell: 000-000-0000
email@email.com

Summary

Accomplished Head Chef who has worked in several of the finest restaurants in the area. Adept at developing an enticing menu, managing a very busy kitchen and making sure that the kitchen always meets health code standards. Specializes in French and Italian cuisine.

Highlights

Named outstanding local chef twice by local media
Has published two very popular cookbooks
Very strong organizational and communication skills
Strict monitor of all kitchen activities
Takes job very seriously
Always maintains an air of professionalism

Work Experience

April 2010 to February 2015 Chez Gustav
- City, State Head Chef

Elevated the restaurant from a three-star rating to a four-star rating in just one year.
Developed an innovative way for maintaining the kitchen's cleanliness standards while working during the day.
Became a media figure that drew people to the restaurant on a regular basis.

September 2004 to April 2010 Bambino's
- City, State Head Chef

Restructured the kitchen staff to make operations more efficient and smoother.
Added several dishes to the menu that are still being offered to this day.
Worked closely with management to develop new marketing methods for increasing revenue.

June 1993 to September 2004 Company Name
- City, State Head Chef

Developed a method for scheduling kitchen help that improved morale and productivity.
Established an internship program with several of the local colleges.
Often mingled with guests to answer questions and take suggestions.

Education

1993 Premier University, City, State Bachelor of Arts, Culinary Arts