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Freelance Research Development Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Development Chef

Omaha, NE · On-site

$59K - $78K/yr

This role is deeply handson and highly visible, blending chef creativity with storytelling as you ... You will coordinate research and development cuttings, drive flavor and technique, and serve as a ...

Executive Chef, Production (Contract)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Attend weekly meetings with R&D chefs in order to give feedback on recipes or ingredient specifications * Review meal ratings weekly and assess areas for performance improvement Documentation and ...

Who You Are The R&D Chef is the culinary architect for the brand, bridging the gap between Michelin-caliber artistry and multi-unit scalability. This role demands a rare hybrid of elite creativity ...

Foodservice R&D Specialist

Louisville, KY · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Talis Group's client, a respected and innovative company searching for a Foodservice R&D Specialist who combines hands-on chef experience with a passion for research and product development. This is ...

Purpose of the Position Ensures that R&D projects involving product development are delivered in ... Collaborates with other Chef(s), R&D, Marketing and Consumer Insights with internal and external ...

Chef

Miami, FL · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Strong knowledge of menu development across different cuisines and service styles (buffet, plated ... Research and source new ingredients, products, and culinary trends to keep offerings fresh and ...

Purpose of the Position Ensures that R&D projects involving product development are delivered in ... Collaborates with other Chef(s), R&D, Marketing and Consumer Insights with internal and external ...

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Freelance Research Development Chef information

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How much do freelance research development chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance research development chef in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Research Development Chef vs Research and Development Chef?

AspectFreelance Research Development ChefResearch and Development Chef
CredentialsCooking certifications, culinary degrees, specialized R&D trainingSimilar credentials, often with advanced culinary or food science education
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, varies by client or companyIn-house or corporate kitchens, R&D labs within food companies
Employer & IndustryFreelance, consulting, food startups, product development firmsFood manufacturing, large food companies, restaurant chains

While both roles focus on food innovation and product development, a Freelance Research Development Chef works independently on diverse projects for various clients, offering flexibility and a broad scope. In contrast, a Research and Development Chef is typically employed full-time within a company, focusing on specific product lines and long-term development strategies.

More about Freelance Research Development Chef jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Research Development Chef jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Research Development Chef job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Development Chef jobs? The most popular types of Research Development Chef jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Research Development Chef jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Research Development Chef jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Research Development Chef jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Research Development Chef jobs are:
Infographic showing various Freelance Research Development Chef job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
Corporate Research & Development Sous Chef

Corporate Research & Development Sous Chef

Ramen Tatsu-Ya

Austin, TX • On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Join the Tatsu-Ya Team as a Corporate R&D Sous Chef!
At Tatsu-Ya, we're constantly pushing flavor forward. From new ramen builds and seasonal specials to innovative culinary concepts, our R&D team helps shape the future of the brand. If you're passionate about food, creativity, and culinary innovation, we'd love to hear from you.
Perks Include:
  • Competitive Salary
  • Paid On-the-Job Training
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Free Meals During Shifts
  • Discounts at all Tatsu-Ya locations
  • Family Meal
  • Creative, collaborative culinary environment
Benefits:
  • Paid Sick Time
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Opportunities for travel, trainings, and culinary development

What is the job? As the Corporate Research & Development (R&D) Sous Chef, you will support the development, testing, and execution of new menu items, recipes, and culinary initiatives across the Tatsu-Ya brand. Working closely with the Corporate Chef and cross-functional teams, you'll help ensure every product meets our standards for flavor, consistency, quality, and operational execution.
What You'll Do:
  • The Corporate Sous Chef will need to be trained and become proficient in all levels of the BOH operations of all concepts and be able to support or assist the operating of the restaurants from time to time
  • Support the Corporate R&D team in developing, testing, and refining new culinary concepts and recipes
  • Execute recipe testing, sensory evaluations, tastings, and product trials
  • Maintain detailed documentation of recipes, ingredient specs, testing procedures, and results
  • Assist with seasonal menu updates, LTOs, and ongoing product improvements
  • Ensure recipes are scalable, consistent, and operationally efficient across multiple locations
  • Assist with ingredient sourcing, vendor coordination, and culinary research
  • Maintain cleanliness, organization, and food safety standards within the test kitchen
  • Collaborate with Operations and Training teams during rollouts and implementation of new products
  • Monitor culinary trends, emerging techniques, and ingredient innovations to contribute fresh ideas

Requirements
  • 3-5 years of culinary experience in a high-volume kitchen environment
  • Previous experience in R&D, menu development, or culinary innovation preferred
  • Strong understanding of cooking techniques, flavor profiles, and ingredient functionality
  • Excellent organization, communication, and time management skills
  • Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience preferred
  • Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, allergens, and dietary restrictions
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in fast-paced kitchen environments
  • Ability to travel as needed for trainings, openings, or culinary support

Ready to help shape the future of Tatsu-Ya? Apply now to join our Corporate R&D team and bring bold ideas, big flavors, and culinary creativity to the table.