Traveling Chef Manager

SAGE Dining Services

SAGE Dining Services® is seeking a Culinary Support Team Member (CST). This role is ideal for a dynamic leader who enjoys traveling and bringing energy to vibrant environments. Ideally located in or around Chicago, you will support venues across...

Last checked on May 15, 2026. We may earn a commission when you click through.

If you're a culinary leader looking for adventure in your career, this role could be a great fit, but expect frequent travel.

✓ Competitive salary for the hospitality industry ✓ Variety of work environments ✓ Opportunity to lead in new settings

Traveling Chef Manager

SAGE Dining Services

Updated 1 hour ago

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Chicago On-site 80 – 85 Full-Time

If you're a culinary leader looking for adventure in your career, this role could be a great fit, but expect frequent travel.

About this role

SAGE Dining Services® specializes in providing high-quality dining solutions for educational institutions, emphasizing culinary excellence and customer service.

About the Company

SAGE Dining Services specializes in food service management, particularly for private institutions. They emphasize quality dining experiences across various venues.

Key Highlights

✓ Salary range of $80K–$85K annually
✓ Travel-intensive role with flexibility across the Midwest
✓ Support for new openings and busy seasons
✓ Work in diverse settings, including schools and colleges
✓ Opportunity for leadership during transitions

💡 Honest Take: This position suits those who thrive on travel and dynamic work environments but can be challenging for those who prefer stability.

Pros

✓ Competitive salary for the hospitality industry
✓ Variety of work environments
✓ Opportunity to lead in new settings
✓ No remote work, ensuring hands-on management

Cons

✗ High travel demands can be exhausting
✗ Limited work-life balance due to travel
✗ May involve last-minute travel assignments
✗ Not suitable for those who dislike changing environments

Best For: This is for experienced chefs or culinary managers who are eager for leadership roles and don’t mind being on the road frequently.

Watch Out: Be prepared for the demands of travel and the potential for long hours, especially during busy seasons.

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What Customers Say

Workers appreciate the dynamic nature of the job but often mention the challenges of constant travel and long hours.

Expert Review

In this role, a Traveling Chef Manager can expect a salary between $80,000 and $85,000 per year. This is competitive for the food service sector, especially given the leadership responsibilities involved. The position requires a willingness to travel extensively across the Midwest, which may not appeal to everyone.

Support for new openings and busy periods means being a proactive leader. Expect to work in diverse settings, from high-end dining to retail operations at schools and colleges. This diversity can enrich your culinary experience but also means adapting quickly to different environments.

The job emphasizes hands-on management with no remote work options, ensuring direct involvement in operations. However, the travel may impact personal life, especially for those with family commitments. The flexibility to travel is crucial, as last-minute assignments can arise, adding to the unpredictability of the role.

According to SAGE Dining Services' official page, they focus on creating vibrant dining experiences, which aligns with the dynamic nature of this job. Overall, if you have a passion for culinary leadership and adventure, this could be a rewarding career path for you.