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Menu Development Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Blue Plate Catering

Chef de Cuisine

Chicago, IL · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Contribute to recipe development, menu innovations, tastings, and culinary concepts that reflect Blue Plate's standards, client needs, current trends, and operation excellence. • Ensure menu ...

58EOS LLC

Esquire Executive Chef

Chicago, IL

$120K - $150K/yr

Own menu development, execution, and the standard across the Wagyu, seafood, and sushi programs. * Lead the full BOH brigade; build the kitchen team and the culture of the line. * Drive bespoke ...

Mercadito Lincoln Park

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL

$85K - $95K/yr

Collaborate with ownership and operations on menu development, seasonal features, and special events. * Foster a positive, accountable, and team-oriented culture. Qualifications * 5+ years of ...

Osito's Tap

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$18 - $25/hr

Creative input on specials and menu development * Growth opportunities within the company * Employee discounts * Paid time off and sick leave (accrued) * Oppertunity for Health Insurance What You'll ...

Osito's Tap

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$51K - $69K/yr

Creative input on specials and menu development * Growth opportunities within the company * Employee discounts * Paid time off and sick leave (accrued) * Oppertunity for Health Insurance What You'll ...

Performance Food Group

Marketing Director

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$100/hr

A team of sales reps, chefs, consultants, and other experts builds close relationships with customers - providing advice on improving operations, menu development, product selection, and operational ...

Gecko Hospitality

Banquet Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Collaborate with the Executive Chef and Banquet Chef on menu development, seasonal offerings, and custom requests for events. * Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff, building a skilled and motivated ...

Centennial Crafted Beer + Eatery

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$60K - $67K/yr

Contribute to seasonal specials, menu development, scratch kitchen production, and continuous improvement of kitchen operations * Foster a respectful, professional kitchen culture built on ...

New

Eden restaurant

eden - Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

This role includes menu development, inventory management, and the supervision and training of kitchen staff. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong leadership ...

The Paramount Group

eden - Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

This role includes menu development, inventory management, and the supervision and training of kitchen staff. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong leadership ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsMenu Development JobsMenu Development Jobs in Illinois

Menu Development information

See Illinois salary details

$48.5K

$104.4K

$168.1K

How much do menu development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for menu development in Illinois is $104,361.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,300.00 and $117,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is menu development?

A Menu Development job involves creating, testing, and refining food and beverage menus for restaurants, cafes, or catering businesses. Professionals in this role research food trends, balance flavors, and ensure profitability while maintaining brand identity. They collaborate with chefs, suppliers, and marketing teams to design appealing and cost-effective menu items. Additionally, they may consider dietary restrictions, sustainability, and customer preferences to enhance the dining experience.

What does someone in menu development do?

In a Menu Development role, daily tasks often include researching food trends, developing and testing new recipes, analyzing menu performance data, and collaborating with chefs, nutritionists, and procurement teams. Menu developers may also be responsible for adjusting existing menus to optimize profitability and catering to customer preferences while ensuring quality and consistency. Regular meetings and tastings are part of the job, as is working closely with marketing teams to create visually appealing menu descriptions. This collaborative environment allows you to have a direct impact on both culinary creativity and the business success of the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in menu development?

Excelling in Menu Development requires a strong understanding of culinary trends, nutrition, recipe costing, and food safety, often backed by experience in culinary arts or hospitality management. Familiarity with menu engineering software, inventory systems, and culinary certifications such as ServSafe are commonly beneficial. Creativity, collaboration, and attention to detail help professionals design attractive and cost-effective menus that align with brand standards. These skills ensure menus are innovative, profitable, and meet customer and operational needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Menu Development jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Menu Development jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Menu Development jobs in Illinois?

For Menu Development jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Menu Development jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Menu Development jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Menu Development jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Menu Development job openings:

Menu Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Menu Development job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,361 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

SPECIALITY COOK - Sorella by Giada

Hollywood Casino Aurora

Aurora, IL • On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Introduction...

OverviewWe’re always looking for talent that believes in having fun. At PENN Entertainment, you’ll get to be a part of an exciting industry, where the days and nights are fast paced. You’ll work with an incredibly diverse set of coworkers driven by their enthusiasm for helping people find and have more fun. You’ll also get to work at a company that cares about your career growth and will help you get the support you need to expand your possibilities.
Initial placement within the salary range is based on an individual's relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our competitive Total Rewards package, which includes wellness programs designed to support our team members' financial, physical, and mental well-being. Specific benefits—such as day-one medical coverage, 401(k) matching, and annual performance bonus—may vary by position. Paid time off is earned according to the local policy and increases with the length of employment.
Click HERE to discover how we empower team members to grow, thrive, and advance in their careers.

Responsibilities

The Specialty Cook prepares and executes high-quality, signature dishes in a fast-paced, high-profile restaurant environment. This role ensures consistency, presentation, and adherence to culinary and safety standards while delivering an exceptional dining experience to a discerning clientele, including celebrity guests.

  • Prepare, cook, and plate signature dishes according to established recipes and presentation standards
  • Maintain consistency, quality, and creativity in all menu items
  • Monitor and maintain proper inventory levels; communicate supply needs to management
  • Follow all food safety, hygiene, and regulatory guidelines
  • Assist with menu development, daily specials, and seasonal offerings
  • Collaborate with culinary team to ensure smooth service during high-volume and VIP events
  • Train and mentor junior kitchen staff as needed
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment at all times
  • Adapt quickly to special requests, dietary restrictions, and high-profile guest needs

Requirements

  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Experience as a cook in a high-end, fine dining, or celebrity-driven restaurant preferred
  • Expertise in specialty cooking techniques, plating, and presentation
  • Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, high-profile kitchen
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to culinary excellence
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills
  • Flexibility to work nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours during events
  • Knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and allergen management
  • Creativity and willingness to contribute to menu innovation

Apply