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Menu Development Jobs in Oakland, CA (NOW HIRING)

What You'll Create Menu Development & Culinary Excellence * Collaborate on weekly menu planning with emphasis on seasonal, farm-to-table, scratch cooking * Develop creative menu items while ...

What You'll Create Menu Development & Culinary Excellence * Collaborate on weekly menu planning with emphasis on seasonal, farm-to-table, scratch cooking * Develop creative menu items while ...

Sous Chef

Redwood City, CA ยท On-site

$26/hr

What You'll Create Menu Development & Culinary Excellence * Collaborate on weekly menu planning with emphasis on seasonal, farm-to-table, scratch cooking * Develop creative menu items while ...

Executive Chef

Palo Alto, CA ยท On-site

$115K - $128K/yr

Responsibilities include all food production and menu development including that used for the restaurant, banquet functions and other outlets, while monitoring food purchase specifications and ...

Executive Chef

Palo Alto, CA ยท On-site

$115K - $128K/yr

Responsibilities include all food production and menu development including that used for the restaurant, banquet functions and other outlets, while monitoring food purchase specifications and ...

Sous Chef

South San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Menu Development & Innovation During periods of lower production volume, focus on: * Creating seasonal menus and introducing new culinary offerings. * Testing, refining, and documenting recipes to ...

Sous Chef

South San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Menu Development & Innovation During periods of lower production volume, focus on: * Creating seasonal menus and introducing new culinary offerings. * Testing, refining, and documenting recipes to ...

Head Chef

Livermore, CA ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Maintain cleanliness and food safety standards * Assist with menu development and inventory management Requirements: * Previous experience as a Head Chef or Kitchen Manager preferred * Strong ...

Sous Chef

South San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Menu Development & Innovation During periods of lower production volume, focus on: * Creating seasonal menus and introducing new culinary offerings. * Testing, refining, and documenting recipes to ...

Chef de Cuisine

Napa, CA ยท On-site

$86K - $118K/yr

Culinary Leadership & Menu Development Menu Planning & Innovation Lead all menu planning, R&D, and seasonal updates for Bear and other property outlets, showcasing Napa Valley's farms and foragers.

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Menu Development information

See Oakland, CA salary details

$57.4K

$123.7K

$199.3K

How much do menu development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for menu development in Oakland, CA is $123,687.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,100.00 and $139,500.00 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 Oakland, CA?

The most popular types of Menu Development jobs in Oakland, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Menu Development jobs in Oakland, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Menu Development jobs in Oakland, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Menu Development jobs in Oakland, CA are:

What cities near Oakland, CA are hiring for Menu Development jobs?

Cities near Oakland, CA with the most Menu Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Menu Development job openings in Oakland, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,687 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Research and Development Chef - Award Winning Restaurant

NextGen Hospitality Solutions

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Description

NextGen Hospitality Solutions is excited to announce an opening for a Research and Development Chef at our award-winning restaurant located in vibrant San Francisco. This full-time, on-site position offers an exceptional opportunity to lead culinary innovation and create extraordinary dining experiences that define our brand.

As a Research and Development Chef, you will play a pivotal role in conceptualizing and developing unique menu offerings that highlight our commitment to quality and creativity in the culinary arts. Collaborating closely with our talented kitchen team, you will be responsible for experimenting with new techniques, flavors, and presentation styles that cater to diverse palates, ensuring our restaurant remains a leader in the industry.

We offer a competitive salary range of $90,000 - $100,000 annually, along with a supportive environment that encourages personal and professional growth.

Responsibilities
  • Develop innovative recipes and menu items that enhance brand identity
  • Research and experiment with emerging culinary trends and techniques
  • Collaborate with the kitchen team to optimize food preparation processes
  • Conduct tastings and solicit feedback to refine menu offerings
  • Oversee kitchen staff training on new dishes and cooking methods
  • Ensure consistency in food quality and presentation
  • Manage food costing and inventory for new menu items
  • Establish relationships with local suppliers for fresh ingredients
Requirements
  • Proven experience in a senior culinary role, preferably as a chef
  • Strong background in menu development and kitchen leadership
  • Excellent understanding of flavor profiles and culinary techniques
  • Ability to think creatively and work collaboratively
  • Exceptional communication and organizational skills
  • Passion for food and commitment to high culinary standards
  • Experience with food costing and inventory management
  • Relevant culinary qualifications or degrees are preferred