Do you like to cook for other people? Does anything give you more joy or relaxation than stepping into your kitchen for a little recipe experimentation? Perhaps all of your friends and family are liberal with the compliments whenever you decide to prepare that special meal for those special times together, be it Christmas, birthdays, or just a relaxing cookout. Well, if cooking gives you joy, then you should think about turning it into a career. And if you have already, then you need to also be aware of what all chef jobs entail. Here’s a quick rundown from one of our favorite chefs, Kenny from The Craighaar Hotel.
Development Chef Jobs
Many chefs get started in development chef jobs that aid the potential chef in getting the necessary on-the-job training needed for the big time. Whether working as an apprentice for a head chef or attending culinary school programs, this is the time for you to learn the basics. Experiment and practice with different ingredients. Broil, bake, and food prep your way to perfection. You will also learn how to properly care for kitchen equipment, how to plan menu items, how to apportion the right amounts to your customers, and some of the finer points regarding proper food management and storage.
Head Chef Jobs
With enough experience and a little entrepreneurial spirit, you may decide that simply preparing the meals is not enough. With a little hard work, you can take control as the head chef in a reputable restaurant or start one of your own. However, to do so, you will need to be prepared for the extra responsibilities, which include managing your kitchen staff – after all, no one can take on such a large task on their own. You may still aid in meal preparation, as that is the reason you wanted to become a chef in the first place, but keep in mind that you must also be on top of things such as restaurant sanitation and public health rules and regulations for food handling.
Chef Career Journey
Again, there are a number of ways you can get started if you’re sure this is the path you choose to follow. There are many culinary schools out there that specialize in creating the next generation of great chefs. But did you know you can also build your knowledge and your skills through traditional two-year and four-year programs at an accredited university? These avenues can be invaluable when it comes to getting you where you want to be. But keep in mind that all the credentials in the world will not help you succeed if the food isn’t right. So an apprenticeship with a talented and well-respected chef may be just as big of a help to you in meeting your goals. Whether you are looking for head chef jobs or development chef jobs, the time has never been better for you to get started. And on the subject of getting started, there are a variety of ways you can do so, but there is only one clear objective: to make your customers full – and happy!