Assistant Recipe Tester Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

Variety FoodServices is seeking a Culinary Production & Catering Specialist to support our growing culinary production and catering operations. This hands-on role plays an important part in preparing high-quality food products, executing catering events, supporting menu innovation, and ensuring our customers receive consistent, exceptional service.

The ideal candidate is an organized culinary professional with experience in catering, high-volume food production, or institutional food service. This position requires strong attention to detail, the ability to manage multiple priorities, and a passion for producing quality food in a fast-paced environment.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to recipe development, improve operational processes, and support exciting food service experiences across our organization. Weekend availability may be required for scheduled catering events or rotating production coverage.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Food Production Operations

• Execute daily food production plans while following standardized recipes, portion guidelines, and quality standards.
• Prepare, package, label, count, and stage food products accurately for distribution.
• Maintain consistency in food quality, presentation, portion control, and production timelines.
• Monitor ingredient, packaging, and production supply inventory levels and communicate replenishment needs.
• Assist with menu development and recipe testing, supporting the introduction of approximately four new menu items per month.
• Support quality control initiatives and continuous improvement efforts within food production operations.

Employee Meal Program Support

• Assist with preparation and execution of the daily employee lunch program.
• Ensure meals are prepared, presented, and replenished according to company standards.
• Maintain a positive and professional service experience for employees.

Catering Operations

• Prepare catering orders according to recipes, specifications, and customer expectations.
• Support catering logistics including preparation planning, food production, delivery, setup, service, and teardown.
• Provide professional customer service during catering deliveries and events.
• Ensure all catering operations follow food safety, sanitation, and quality standards.

Culinary Operations Support

• Demonstrate proper food preparation techniques including washing, cutting, portioning, and food handling.
• Safely operate commercial kitchen equipment including ovens, slicers, mixers, and other production equipment.
• Assist with loading and unloading ovens and production equipment.
• Support employee training and coaching efforts as needed.
• Provide operational support to other food production areas when needed.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and workflow.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Previous experience in culinary production, catering, institutional food service, or high-volume kitchen operations.
• Valid Chauffeur’s License required within 30 days of employment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to stand, walk, and work on feet for extended periods.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Flexibility to work weekends and varying schedules based on operational needs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Catering operations experience.
• Experience with menu planning, recipe development, or product testing.
• ServSafe Certification.
• ServSafe Allergen Certification.
• Experience with inventory management and food production systems.
• Knowledge of food portioning, production planning, and sanitation procedures.

Why Join Variety FoodServices?

• Be part of a growing food service organization focused on quality and innovation.
• Gain hands-on experience in culinary production and catering operations.
• Contribute ideas and creativity through menu development and process improvement.
• Work in a collaborative environment where your skills and experience make an impact.

Variety FoodServices is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, height, weight, marital status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without a reasonable accommodation. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable law.