Chef Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Chef and culinary positions are regularly sponsored through H-1B visa for specialty cuisine roles, H-2B visa for seasonal hospitality demand, and EB-3 for permanent placements. Sponsorship is strongest for chefs with specialty cuisine expertise or executive kitchen experience at high-end restaurants and hotel groups. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsOmni Royal Orleans Hotel
The Omni Royal Orleans offers graceful elegance in a New Orleans French Quarter hotel. Located on the most fashionable corner, St. Louis at Royal, the hotel has received the four-diamond luxury award for over 30 years and has earned the Pinnacle Award for meeting services. Our full property renovation incorporates modern amenities with classic design in our guest rooms, including iconic wrought iron balconies and redesigned public spaces inspired by liveliness of the area's culture through various color palettes and artwork.
Omni Royal Orleans’ associates enjoy a dynamic and exciting work environment, comprehensive training and mentoring, along with the pride that comes from working for a company with a reputation for exceptional service. We embody a culture of respect, gratitude and empowerment day in and day out. If you are a friendly, motivated person, with a passion to serve others, the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel may be your perfect match.
Overview:
Be able to lead the culinary team helping between both Banquets and Restaurant operations. This critical member of our culinary team has an overall responsibility for the efficient and effective running of the kitchens and food production.
Responsibilities:
-
Manage the daily production, preparation, and presentation of all food for the hotel's restaurant and Banquets to ensure a quality, consistent product is produced which conforms to all Omni Standards.
-
Manage associates in scheduling, training, developing, coaching/counseling, conducting reviews. Also focus on attracting, interviewing, retaining and motivating the associates while providing a safe work environment.
-
Constantly inspect all food service sections during service time to ensure that the correct standards are maintained.
-
Monitor, analyze and control all labor and food costs; prepare the appropriate reports, charts, and schedules to ensure budgets are met or exceeded while quality is maintained or improved.
-
Work with the Resort Executive Chef in the creation, costing and implementation of menus.
-
Ability to step in and lead / assist in leadership positions in multiple kitchens. (Resort Outlets & Banquets). CDC possess strong communication skills in both verbal and written capacities to ensure Passover notes are thorough and detailed in the absence and or presence of the leader in that area, while assisting in the different areas of the operation.
-
Able to communicate effectively in multiple departments/roles as well as guest facing meetings that may include PRE CONS, tastings and site visits.
-
Meets deadlines set forth by the department heads while keeping the hourly team aware of key dates and events happening across the resort.
-
Scheduling of staff according to budget and business forecast. Able to assist in critiquing the monthly P&L based on business levels.
-
Directs proper sanitation and maintenance of all kitchen facilities and equipment.
-
Comply with EcoSure & health code standards for sanitation.
-
Ensure that all kitchen equipment is in good working order.
-
Directs proper maintenance of all walk-in coolers (rotation of food products and cleanliness).
-
Advise the resort executive chef on all matters relating to the kitchen area and ensure a high standard of cleanliness and hygienic practice throughout the kitchen.
-
Ensure guest satisfaction with the smooth and effective running of the day-to-day operation.
-
To maintain control of the standards for purchasing and receiving items.
-
Work closely with the storeroom manager and food and beverage controller to establish and maintain control of the standards for purchasing and receiving items.
-
To test and evaluate products for quality, paying particular attention to yield/holding qualities/market price/wastage usage of leftovers.
-
Knows expectations and ensures that staff understand them and that they execute said expectations within the proper guidelines.
-
Provide support and leadership to accomplish our Medallia food quality score.
-
Checks and controls sign-in and sign-out procedures for kitchen staff.
-
Perform any other job-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Candidate is required to have at least 2 years previous culinary management experience.
Prior experience in an upscale, full service five Diamond Kitchen preferred.
Excellent Customer Service, prior admin experience preferred.
College education and/or culinary degree preferred.
Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Delphi or similar programs required.
Use a computer to access Kronos, Birch Street and Medallia.
Interact with guests during tastings and special events.
Be creative in creating menus while maintaining bottom line.
Serve Safe certified food manager/applicable food safety certifications required.
Clear, positive, energetic communication skills, written and verbal.
Excellent organizational skills required.
Able to work a flexible schedule to include nights, weekends and holidays.
Omni Hotels & Resorts is an equal opportunity/AA/Disability/Veteran employer. The EEO is the Law poster is available using the following link:
EEOC is the Law Poster.
Omni Hotels & Resorts does not discriminate on the basis of any protected category with respect to the payment of wages.
If you are interested in applying for employment with Omni Hotels & Resorts and need special assistance to apply for a posted position, please send an email to: applicationassistance@omnihotels.com.
Omni Royal Orleans Hotel
The Omni Royal Orleans offers graceful elegance in a New Orleans French Quarter hotel. Located on the most fashionable corner, St. Louis at Royal, the hotel has received the four-diamond luxury award for over 30 years and has earned the Pinnacle Award for meeting services. Our full property renovation incorporates modern amenities with classic design in our guest rooms, including iconic wrought iron balconies and redesigned public spaces inspired by liveliness of the area's culture through various color palettes and artwork.
Omni Royal Orleans’ associates enjoy a dynamic and exciting work environment, comprehensive training and mentoring, along with the pride that comes from working for a company with a reputation for exceptional service. We embody a culture of respect, gratitude and empowerment day in and day out. If you are a friendly, motivated person, with a passion to serve others, the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel may be your perfect match.
Overview:
Be able to lead the culinary team helping between both Banquets and Restaurant operations. This critical member of our culinary team has an overall responsibility for the efficient and effective running of the kitchens and food production.
Responsibilities:
-
Manage the daily production, preparation, and presentation of all food for the hotel's restaurant and Banquets to ensure a quality, consistent product is produced which conforms to all Omni Standards.
-
Manage associates in scheduling, training, developing, coaching/counseling, conducting reviews. Also focus on attracting, interviewing, retaining and motivating the associates while providing a safe work environment.
-
Constantly inspect all food service sections during service time to ensure that the correct standards are maintained.
-
Monitor, analyze and control all labor and food costs; prepare the appropriate reports, charts, and schedules to ensure budgets are met or exceeded while quality is maintained or improved.
-
Work with the Resort Executive Chef in the creation, costing and implementation of menus.
-
Ability to step in and lead / assist in leadership positions in multiple kitchens. (Resort Outlets & Banquets). CDC possess strong communication skills in both verbal and written capacities to ensure Passover notes are thorough and detailed in the absence and or presence of the leader in that area, while assisting in the different areas of the operation.
-
Able to communicate effectively in multiple departments/roles as well as guest facing meetings that may include PRE CONS, tastings and site visits.
-
Meets deadlines set forth by the department heads while keeping the hourly team aware of key dates and events happening across the resort.
-
Scheduling of staff according to budget and business forecast. Able to assist in critiquing the monthly P&L based on business levels.
-
Directs proper sanitation and maintenance of all kitchen facilities and equipment.
-
Comply with EcoSure & health code standards for sanitation.
-
Ensure that all kitchen equipment is in good working order.
-
Directs proper maintenance of all walk-in coolers (rotation of food products and cleanliness).
-
Advise the resort executive chef on all matters relating to the kitchen area and ensure a high standard of cleanliness and hygienic practice throughout the kitchen.
-
Ensure guest satisfaction with the smooth and effective running of the day-to-day operation.
-
To maintain control of the standards for purchasing and receiving items.
-
Work closely with the storeroom manager and food and beverage controller to establish and maintain control of the standards for purchasing and receiving items.
-
To test and evaluate products for quality, paying particular attention to yield/holding qualities/market price/wastage usage of leftovers.
-
Knows expectations and ensures that staff understand them and that they execute said expectations within the proper guidelines.
-
Provide support and leadership to accomplish our Medallia food quality score.
-
Checks and controls sign-in and sign-out procedures for kitchen staff.
-
Perform any other job-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Candidate is required to have at least 2 years previous culinary management experience.
Prior experience in an upscale, full service five Diamond Kitchen preferred.
Excellent Customer Service, prior admin experience preferred.
College education and/or culinary degree preferred.
Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Delphi or similar programs required.
Use a computer to access Kronos, Birch Street and Medallia.
Interact with guests during tastings and special events.
Be creative in creating menus while maintaining bottom line.
Serve Safe certified food manager/applicable food safety certifications required.
Clear, positive, energetic communication skills, written and verbal.
Excellent organizational skills required.
Able to work a flexible schedule to include nights, weekends and holidays.
Omni Hotels & Resorts is an equal opportunity/AA/Disability/Veteran employer. The EEO is the Law poster is available using the following link:
EEOC is the Law Poster.
Omni Hotels & Resorts does not discriminate on the basis of any protected category with respect to the payment of wages.
If you are interested in applying for employment with Omni Hotels & Resorts and need special assistance to apply for a posted position, please send an email to: applicationassistance@omnihotels.com.
See all 2,213+ Chef Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Chef roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Chef
Build a specialty cuisine case for H-1B eligibility
USCIS has approved H-1B petitions for chefs who demonstrate that their role requires specialized knowledge beyond basic culinary skills. Executive chefs and specialty cuisine experts - particularly in regional cuisines requiring extensive training - have the strongest cases.
Pursue the O-1 visa if you have extraordinary achievements
Michelin stars, James Beard Award nominations, published cookbooks, or prominent media features can support an O-1 visa petition for extraordinary ability. Document every award, press mention, and industry recognition as evidence for your case.
Earn a culinary degree from a recognized institution
Degrees from institutions like the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Le Cordon Bleu, or Johnson & Wales help establish that your role requires specialized education. A formal culinary degree strengthens the specialty occupation argument that sets H-1B-eligible chefs apart.
Use the J-1 trainee category to gain U.S. kitchen experience
The J-1 Trainee visa is available to chefs with a degree plus at least one year of related experience, or five years of experience in the field. It provides up to 12 months of U.S. training in the hospitality field and is a practical way to build connections with American restaurants.
Target high-end restaurants and hotel dining programs
Fine dining restaurants, Michelin-rated establishments, and luxury hotel culinary programs are far more likely to sponsor visas than casual dining or chain restaurants. These employers can more credibly argue that the position requires specialized expertise.
Document your culinary portfolio for immigration purposes
Compile media coverage, competition results, letters from industry peers, and evidence of specialized training in specific cuisines or techniques. A well-organized portfolio supports both H-1B specialty occupation and O-1 visa extraordinary ability arguments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What visa options are available for chefs seeking U.S. sponsorship?
Chefs can be sponsored through H-1B visa (for specialty cuisine roles that require specialized training), H-2B visa (for seasonal hospitality positions), J-1 visa (for culinary training programs), or EB-3 (for permanent positions leading to a green card). The visa type depends on the cuisine specialization, the employer, and whether the role is temporary or permanent.
Can chefs qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship?
Yes, but the role needs to demonstrate that it requires specialized knowledge tied to a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Executive chefs, specialty cuisine chefs (e.g., sushi masters, pastry chefs with advanced training), and roles requiring extensive formal culinary education have the strongest H-1B cases. A general line cook position would not typically qualify.
What experience do I need for a chef position with visa sponsorship?
It varies by visa type. H-1B specialty cuisine roles typically require extensive formal training and years of experience in a specific cuisine. EB-3 positions may accept less experience. H-2B seasonal roles may require basic kitchen skills with on-the-job training provided. Having documented experience in a recognized cuisine specialty significantly strengthens your application.
Which employers are most likely to sponsor chefs?
High-end restaurants, hotel groups, resort properties, and private clubs are the most active sponsors for culinary positions. Employers who need chefs with specific cuisine expertise that's difficult to recruit domestically (Japanese, French, Indian, Thai) are more likely to pursue sponsorship than establishments looking for general kitchen staff.
Can a culinary J-1 training program lead to permanent employment?
Not directly - J-1 is temporary and some participants face a two-year home residency requirement. However, completing a culinary J-1 program builds U.S. employer relationships and experience that can position you for H-1B or EB-3 sponsorship later. If you're not subject to the two-year requirement, transitioning to another visa status is more straightforward.
How to find Chef jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Chef jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international culinary professionals with employers offering visa support. Focus on restaurants, hotels, resorts, and hospitality chains that commonly sponsor skilled worker visas like H-1B or employer-sponsored permanent residence visas. These employers actively seek experienced chefs to fill specialized culinary positions.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Chef jobs?
When a U.S. employer sponsors a foreign worker for a work visa, they are legally required to pay at least the "prevailing wage", the average wage paid to workers in the same occupation, in the same geographic area, with similar experience. This is set by the Department of Labor to prevent employers from hiring foreign workers at below-market rates. The prevailing wage varies significantly by role, location, and experience level. For example, a chef in California will have a different prevailing wage than the same role in a smaller state. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search Page.