Executive Chef

Job Summary:
Executive chefs need to supervise the work of all cooks and at the same time have good knowledge of the working conditions etc. Chefs are required to arrange menus and should also be involved in estimating costs of food, labor etc. They are required to be in constant touch with dieticians and hotel management and prepare food according to the needs of the day. Chefs in a way are in charge of the kitchen and they should intimate the management regarding the cooking equipment required, availability of food stock etc. Chefs are also required to advise cooks on the techniques that are required to cook food (for example, they need to tell cooks whether the dish has to be prepared on a low flame, the time to mix ingredients etc). Chefs should be able to cook food and their task also involves creating the required portions and presentation. Presentation is an important task as the way the food is presented adds value to the chef and the restaurant. Chefs solely handle hygiene maintenance in the kitchen. Another important task of chefs is to minimize wastage of food materials by preserving them and keeping them fresh for consumption. Chefs can specialize in a particular cuisine (so for Italian food there will be a chef who is a specialist in Italian cuisine).

Qualification:
An intense passion for cooking is required. A high school diploma is essential. A certificate or diploma in hospitality is helpful. 2 years management training or hands on experience in a supervisory position helps in growth.

Salary Range:
Ranges from $15 per hour to $30 per hour.

Prospects:
Executive Chefs usually start as cooks and advance in their careers once they acquire management skills. Executive Chefs usually work in full time jobs, some advance and start their own business. Executive Chefs who specialize in a specific cuisine or department also find a lot of opportunities. Executive chefs are needed in all food establishments and the future prospects are great as more and more people get diet conscious and start eating healthy food.