In 2003, Kass finished his senior year of college abroad, training under chef Christian Domschitz in Vienna, Austria.

[14][15][16] He continued his training while traveling around the world, including to New Zealand, Italy, and Mexico, before returning to Chicago in 2006[14] to work at the restaurant Avec[6] under executive chef Paul Kahan.

He was named #11 on Fast Company magazine's 2011 list of 100 Most Creative People for his work with Let's Move!,[21] in particular for a five-year partnership pledge from grocery giant Walmart, which announced a commitment to build up to 300 stores in areas defined as "food deserts",[22] lower the price of its fruits and vegetables, and reduce the sugar, salt, and fat in its private-label products on its shelves.

[21] Kass is a promoter of sustainable farming and locally grown and organic foods[6] and is a critic of modern agricultural producers and fertilizer and pesticide companies.

On December 8, 2014, the White House announced Kass' departure, issuing a statement in which Barack and Michelle Obama saluted his "tenure of dedicated service.

"[29] Barack Obama stated: From constructing our Kitchen Garden to brewing our own Honey Brown Ale, Sam has left an indelible mark on the White House.

And with the work he has done to inspire families and children across this country to lead healthier lives, Sam has made a real difference for our next generation.

from its very beginning -- from discussions about children's health around my kitchen table in Chicago, to setting the strategic vision of a national campaign in the White House, to spearheading efforts with the private sector across the country.

I wish Sam success in all his future endeavors, and I know he will continue to be a leader in the vitally important work to build a healthier country.

[citation needed] As of May 2015, Kass is a partner in Sprig, a meal-delivery service based in the San Francisco Bay Area, founded in 2013.

[35] In October 2015, the James Beard Foundation honored Kass with its 2015 Leadership Award "for his work toward nationwide food-policy initiatives that focus on sustainable and nutritious ingredients, and efforts to raise awareness of childhood obesity, hunger, and nutrition issues.

[38] In April 2016, California-based food technology company Innit, Inc. announced Kass had joined the team as its Chief Consumer Experience Officer.