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Freelance Research Development Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Dixboro Project

Executive Chef

Ann Arbor, MI

$95K - $120K/yr

Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development * Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in ...

The DIXBORO PROJECT

Executive Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development * Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in ...

The Dixboro Project

Executive Chef

Ann Arbor, MI

$95K - $120K/yr

Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development * Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in ...

Procter & Gamble

R&D Engineer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

A P&G R&D Engineer will be responsible for: * Meeting with business management, marketing, and the ... P&G's freelancer opportunities are for project-based or other short-term engagements that require ...

Sky Chefs

$72K - $90K/yr

Keeps himself/herself up to date regarding industry trends (research & development, food trends) and ensures alignment with design chefs * Ensures that the appropriate production technology is in ...

Altius Search Group

Chef - Dim Sum

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

This role is focused on the research, development, and production of high-quality dim sum doughs ... Working from our central commissary kitchen, this chef will lead the development of innovative ...

LSG Sky Chefs

Executive Chef - Airline Catering

Austin, TX · On-site

$72K - $90K/yr

Keeps himself/herself up to date regarding industry trends (research & development, food trends) and ensures alignment with design chefs * Ensures that the appropriate production technology is in ...

Clemente Bar

Executive Sous Chef

New York, NY

$80K - $90K/yr

Work closely with the Chef De Cuisine and R&D Chefs to develop new dishes seasonally. * Assist in writing and costing recipes for the menu. * Develop new techniques for each dish as they become ...

Vivibowl

Culinary Innovation Chef

Manhattan, NY

$90K - $120K/yr

We're seeking an innovative, hands-on Chef to join our Research & Development (R&D) team and help shape the future of our menu. This role is central to crafting new menu items, refining existing ...

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Freelance Research Development Chef information

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$14

$47

$132

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

As of Jun 30, 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.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Research Development Chef jobs? The most popular types of Research Development Chef jobs are:
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Freelance Research Development Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Research Development Chef job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 53% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Executive Chef

The Dixboro Project

Ann Arbor, MI

$95K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead all day-to-day back-of-house operations across the culinary program.

  • Partner with the Chef Partner on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development.

  • Build, mentor, and develop the culinary team, including hiring, onboarding, training, and performance management.

Job description

Description

Nestled in the historic village of Dixboro, The Dixboro Project sits at the intersection of world-class dining, transformational hospitality, and abundant nature. Led by acclaimed Chef Partner Garrett Lipar, our culinary program celebrates the seasons, the Great Lakes region, and the relationships we build with local farmers, producers, and artisans.


We're seeking an experienced Executive Chef to help lead and evolve one of Michigan's most ambitious culinary programs. This is an opportunity for a proven culinary leader to partner closely with Garrett while overseeing all day-to-day kitchen operations, team development, systems management, and culinary execution across the property.


If you are passionate about ingredient-driven cooking, building strong teams, developing future leaders, and creating exceptional guest experiences through food, we'd love to meet you.


WHAT YOU'LL DO:

  • Lead all day-to-day back-of-house operations across a high-volume, chef-driven culinary program
  • Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development
  • Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in accountability, professionalism, and growth
  • Oversee ordering, inventory, food cost management, labor performance, and operational systems
  • Drive consistency, quality, organization, and execution across all services and culinary offerings
  • Create and maintain systems that support efficiency, cleanliness, food safety, and operational excellence
  • Participate in hiring, onboarding, training, coaching, and performance management of kitchen team members
  • Lead service with a strong presence, providing direction and support during prep and peak operating periods

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:

  • 5+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience in high-level, chef-driven restaurant environments
  • Proven experience managing kitchen operations, food cost, labor cost, inventory, and purchasing systems
  • Strong leadership presence with the ability to build culture, accountability, and team engagement
  • Deep understanding of seasonality, sourcing, technique, and modern culinary execution
  • Experience leading menu development, recipe costing, and implementation of new culinary programs
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Availability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and other hours as needed to support the business

WHY WORK WITH US:

  • Be part of a leadership team shaping one of Michigan's most respected and ambitious hospitality organizations
  • Opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and advancement
  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits with company contributions
  • Company-sponsored short-term disability insurance
  • Paid time off and paid sick time programs that support work-life balance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Dining discounts across all The Pulpo Group concepts

Requirements

  • Stand and move throughout kitchen and restaurant spaces for extended periods
  • Lift and carry up to 50 lbs occasionally and 25 lbs regularly
  • Safely operate kitchen equipment, knives, and culinary tools
  • Work in hot, fast-paced, and physically demanding kitchen environments
  • Bend, reach, twist, kneel, and perform repetitive kitchen tasks throughout shifts

Apply