It is hard work, it is grueling work, it is important work, and still, I would do nothing else. The career path for those trained in the culinary arts has become less clear cut in recent years. In the past, one moved from preparation chef to assistant chef to head chef. The large number of training programs available have caused the field to become more competitive and only those with exceptional skills become head chef. Specialization is also important for those who want to move up.
Chefs are the most highly skilled and trained of all kitchen workers.
A chef with extensive experience may be promoted to executive chef, a part of the managerial team running a dining establishment. Other members of this team include the general manager and assistant managers. Occasionally, in smaller establishments, the executive chef serves as the general manager. The executive chef is responsible for running the kitchen, and his or her duties include selecting menu items and analyzing the recipes of the dishes to determine food, labor, overhead costs and to assign prices to the various dishes. Earnings Earnings vary geographically and by type of establishment.