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Director Culinary Development Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Voluntary benefits options About the Role We're seeking a skilled Director, Culinary Services to ... staff development. * Maintain a clean, sanitary kitchen and dining area, including equipment ...

Voluntary benefits options About the Role We're seeking a skilled Director, Culinary Services to ... staff development. * Maintain a clean, sanitary kitchen and dining area, including equipment ...

Regional Culinary Director

Phoenix, AZ · On-site +1

$115K - $180K/yr

As Director of Culinary, Offer Implementation with Sodexo Live!, your passion for culinary ... Contribute to marketing strategies and business development initiatives aimed at boosting sales and ...

Strong culinary foundation with experience in scratch cooking and menu development * Proven ability ... Our Dining Services Directors have the opportunity to make a visible impact every day through food ...

New

Culinary Lead (Sur La Table)

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Key Responsibilities Leadership & Team Development · Supports the recruitment, training, and ... directing associates and/or class participants while selling to customers. · The capability to ...

Culinary Lead (Sur La Table)

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Key Responsibilities Leadership & Team Development • Supports the recruitment, training, and ... directing associates and/or class participants while selling to customers. • The capability to ...

Training & Development opportunities, career growth * Tuition Reimbursement * Pet Insurance * Team ... Culinary to IT-offers opportunities to grow and make a meaningful impact. Creating a Team Member ...

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Director Culinary Development information

What does a director of culinary development do?

A Director of Culinary Development oversees the creation and enhancement of menu items, recipes, and food concepts for a restaurant, hospitality group, or food company. They work closely with chefs, product developers, and marketing teams to ensure that new dishes align with brand standards and customer preferences. Their responsibilities often include trend research, menu innovation, quality control, and managing culinary teams. This role requires a blend of creativity, leadership, and a deep understanding of culinary techniques and market trends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of culinary development?

To thrive as a Director of Culinary Development, you need extensive culinary expertise, menu innovation experience, and a background in food service management, often supported by a culinary degree or equivalent professional certifications. Familiarity with recipe management software, food costing tools, and industry-standard kitchen equipment is essential. Strong leadership, creativity, and excellent communication skills help drive team performance and foster collaboration across departments. These skills are vital for developing successful culinary programs, ensuring operational efficiency, and maintaining a competitive edge in the food industry.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of culinary development, and how can they be addressed?

A Director of Culinary Development often encounters challenges such as keeping up with rapidly changing food trends, ensuring consistency across multiple locations, and managing cross-functional collaboration between culinary teams and other departments like marketing and operations. To address these, it's important to stay informed about industry innovations, implement clear training protocols, and foster open communication with stakeholders. Building a strong team culture and establishing regular feedback mechanisms also help in overcoming obstacles and driving continuous improvement.

What are popular job titles related to Director Culinary Development jobs in Arizona?

For Director Culinary Development jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Director Culinary Development jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Director Culinary Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Culinary Development job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Director of Culinary Services

McLoughlin Place

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

IntroductionFind a workplace where you are deeply appreciated, not only for the skills you offer, but for the individual you are. At Milestone, you’ll enter into a rewarding career where you’ll work with highly skilled professionals and do meaningful work in the lives of our senior residents. Join a welcoming environment that fosters strong relationships with the residents, their families, and your coworkers. We hope you’ll consider serving alongside us.

Overview

Why You’ll Love Working at Milestone

Milestone is one of the fastest-growing senior living operators, with 100+ years of combined industry and hospitality experience. We focus on teamwork, creativity, and making a real impact for our residents and staff. 

Perks & Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, Vision (full-time employees)
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Generous PTO
  • Pet insurance
  • Perks at Work
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Voluntary benefits options

About the Role

We’re seeking a skilled Director, Culinary Services to lead all aspects of our Culinary Service Department and dining room operations. Reporting to the Executive Director, you’ll ensure residents enjoy high-quality meals, safe food handling, and exceptional dining experiences. You’ll also manage culinary staff, control expenses, and ensure compliance with special diets and safety standards. This position has a starting wage of $30 per hour.

Responsibilities

  • Plan, direct, and coach staff in the Culinary Department, fostering teamwork and high performance.
  • Follow the community Menu Program and approved purchasing practices, ensuring nutritional standards are met.
  • Prepare meals in accordance with residents’ preferences and safe food handling standards.
  • Maintain proper food temperatures, storage, and equipment usage to meet all health department regulations.
  • Ensure positive resident experiences during meal service by monitoring satisfaction and addressing preferences.
  • Provide input to the Executive Director on hiring, training, performance evaluations, and staff development.
  • Maintain a clean, sanitary kitchen and dining area, including equipment, storage, and preparation surfaces.
  • Ensure compliance with all sanitation, culinary, and safety guidelines.
  • Demonstrate consistent attendance and punctuality.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required; two years of continuing education preferred.
  • Minimum three years of experience in food service preparation and managing staff.
  • Current ServSafe Certification required; must obtain/hold any local, state, or county required food handling licenses.
  • Must meet health requirements, including TB testing, and pass background check.
  • Compassion for and desire to work with older adults.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to perform well under pressure, resolve conflicts, prioritize tasks, and show initiative.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and professionalism.
  • Self-motivated, able to work independently, and make timely, sound decisions.