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Culinary Operations Manager Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

DIRECTOR OF CULINARY OPERATIONS

Plano, TX · On-site +1

$140K - $180K/yr

Job Title: Director of Culinary R&D Reports to: Chief Operations Officer Location: Looking for ... This role requires a strong balance of creativity, project management, and cross-functional ...

Executive Culinary Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

We are looking for an Executive Culinary Manager who leads a culinary operation with both creativity and business discipline. Someone who develops their team drives quality and consistency at scale ...

Culinary Specialist

Glen Rose, TX · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

Working collaboratively with the Lodgings leadership team, this position oversees the day-to-day culinary operation including menu development, inventory management, purchasing, food safety, and the ...

Culinary Specialist

Glen Rose, TX · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

Working collaboratively with the Lodgings leadership team, this position oversees the day-to-day culinary operation including menu development, inventory management, purchasing, food safety, and the ...

Reporting to the Vice President of Culinary Strategy and Innovation, the Director of Culinary ... operations. Prior experience with Aramark, Sodexo, Compass, or a large managed services food ...

Reporting to the Vice President of Culinary Strategy and Innovation, the Director of Culinary ... operations. Prior experience with Aramark, Sodexo, Compass, or a large managed services food ...

Reporting to the Vice President of Culinary Strategy and Innovation, the Director of Culinary ... operations. Prior experience with Aramark, Sodexo, Compass, or a large managed services food ...

Culinary Supervisor

Coppell, TX · On-site

$21.67 - $29.25/hr

Experience in high-volume, multi-outlet, or event-based culinary operations preferred. * Working ... ServSafe Manager or equivalent certification required where applicable. Link to full What We Offer:

Experience in high-volume, multi-outlet, or event-based culinary operations preferred. * Working ... ServSafe Manager or equivalent certification required where applicable. Link to full What We Offer:

Culinary Supervisor

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Experience in high-volume, multi-outlet, or event-based culinary operations preferred. * Working ... ServSafe Manager or equivalent certification required where applicable. Link to full What We Offer:

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Culinary Operations Manager information

See Texas salary details

$28.9K

$59.1K

$110.4K

How much do culinary operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for culinary operations manager in Texas is $59,119.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $72,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a culinary operations manager?

Culinary Operations Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of kitchens or food service establishments, ensuring quality, efficiency, and safety standards are met. They manage kitchen staff, coordinate food preparation and presentation, and handle inventory and budgeting. Additionally, they develop menus, enforce health regulations, and implement training programs for the culinary team. Their role is crucial in maintaining smooth kitchen operations and delivering excellent dining experiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a culinary operations manager?

To excel as a Culinary Operations Manager, you need strong expertise in culinary arts, food safety standards, and business management, often supported by a degree in hospitality or culinary management. Familiarity with inventory management systems, point-of-sale (POS) software, and certifications such as ServSafe are commonly required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are critical soft skills for managing teams and ensuring smooth operations. These competencies ensure consistent food quality, efficient workflows, and high levels of customer satisfaction in a competitive hospitality environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a culinary operations manager and how are they typically addressed?

Culinary Operations Managers often face challenges such as maintaining consistent food quality across multiple outlets, managing inventory costs, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. These challenges are typically addressed by implementing standardized operating procedures, conducting regular staff training, and utilizing technology for inventory and scheduling. Strong communication and collaboration with both kitchen staff and front-of-house teams are crucial to promptly resolve issues and maintain smooth operations. Staying adaptable and proactive in addressing feedback also helps ensure ongoing improvements.

What is the difference between Culinary Operations Manager vs Kitchen Supervisor?

AspectCulinary Operations ManagerKitchen Supervisor
CredentialsRelevant culinary certifications, management experienceFood safety certifications, culinary experience
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple kitchens or departments, strategic planningManages daily kitchen activities, supervises staff
Employer & IndustryHotels, restaurants, catering companiesRestaurants, institutional kitchens
Search & ComparisonOften compared for managerial roles in culinary settingsCommonly searched for operational oversight roles

The Culinary Operations Manager focuses on strategic management, overseeing multiple kitchens or departments, and ensuring overall operational success. In contrast, the Kitchen Supervisor handles daily kitchen activities and staff supervision. Both roles require culinary experience and certifications but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What does a culinary operations manager do?

A culinary operations manager oversees the daily functions of a food service operation, including managing staff, ensuring food quality and safety, controlling costs, and maintaining operational efficiency. They often coordinate with kitchen staff, implement policies, and may use management tools like inventory systems to ensure smooth restaurant or food service operations.

What is the role of a culinary operations manager in a food operation?

A culinary operations manager oversees the daily food service activities, including menu planning, staff management, quality control, and ensuring compliance with safety and sanitation standards. They coordinate kitchen operations, optimize efficiency, and may be involved in budgeting and training to maintain high culinary standards.

What are popular job titles related to Culinary Operations Manager jobs in Texas?

For Culinary Operations Manager jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Culinary Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Culinary Operations Manager job openings:

DIRECTOR OF CULINARY OPERATIONS

Plano, TX • On-site, Remote

Mendocino Farms
Restaurants • 1 - 5K employees

$140K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Mendocino Farms rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Title: Director of Culinary R&D
Reports to: Chief Operations Officer
Location: Looking for candidates that live in Dallas, TX but would also consider LA based candidates
FLSA Status: Exempt
Compensation: $140,000 - $180,000 per year plus a 15% annual bonus
Summary:
At Mendocino Farms, we don't just sell sandwiches - we Sell Happy!
The Director of Culinary R&D will be responsible for leading menu innovation and product development at Mendo, ensuring that every new item reflects our brand values and delights our guests. This role requires a strong balance of creativity, project management, and cross-functional collaboration. Working closely with the COO and CMO, this individual will oversee tastings, consumer insights, and menu launches to drive culinary relevance and differentiation across our locations.
Responsibilities:
Menu Development & Innovation
  • Research, develop, and test new menu items that align with Mendo's food philosophy and brand strategy.
  • Collaborate with our R&D Chef to refine recipes, ensuring they are operationally executable at scale.
  • Balance innovation with practicality, considering cost, supply chain, and execution feasibility.

Consumer Insights & Market Research
  • Analyze guest feedback, sales data, and market trends to inform culinary innovation.
  • Work with Marketing to conduct guest panels, surveys, and competitive analysis.
  • Identify emerging food trends and adapt them into Mendo's menu while maintaining our unique culinary identity.

Product Testing & Optimization
  • Plan and coordinate internal and external tastings, ensuring structured feedback loops.
  • Partner with Operations to test and refine new products in select stores before system-wide rollout.
  • Ensure all new items meet Mendo's high standards for quality, taste, and consistency.

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with Marketing, Operations, and Supply Chain to ensure smooth menu launches.
  • Partner with Supply Chain to source high-quality, cost-effective ingredients that align with new menu innovations.
  • Collaborate with Supply Chain on vendor selection and procurement strategies to support new product development.
  • Provide clear documentation and communication on new menu items to ensure proper execution.
  • Support Training teams in educating restaurant teams on the story and execution of new dishes.

Strategic Planning & Budget Management
  • Develop a long-term menu innovation roadmap aligned with business goals.
  • Manage the R&D budget, balancing cost-effectiveness with innovation.
  • Optimize supplier relationships to support new product development.

Requirements:
  • Deep understanding of food trends, ingredient sourcing, and consumer preferences.
  • 5+ years of experience in culinary R&D, menu development, or product innovation.
  • Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
  • Experience working cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations, and Supply Chain.
  • Data-driven approach to innovation, using insights to guide decision-making.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Passion for culinary innovation and bringing food to life in a way that excites both guests and operators.
  • Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Marketing, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Benefits:
At Mendocino Farms, we believe Selling Happy starts from within. That's why we offer:
  • Competitive Salary
  • Annual Bonus
  • Meal Privileges-because food should make people feel good!
  • Comprehensive Health Benefits & 401k Plan with Company Match
  • Paid Vacation to recharge and fuel your best self

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
  • Sitting / standing 8-14 hours.
  • Hand use: single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling
  • Work requires the following motions: bending, twisting, squatting, and reaching

There is no "I" in Mendo Mendocino Farms is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. Mendocino Farms will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories for employment in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring. * Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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