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Recipe Development Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

Sous Chef - Obama Presidential Center

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare, cook, and present high-quality food while maintaining consistency in flavor, presentation, and execution. * Assist with menu planning, recipe development, seasonal offerings, and daily ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef - Obama Presidential Center

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare, cook, and present high-quality food while maintaining consistency in flavor, presentation, and execution. * Assist with menu planning, recipe development, seasonal offerings, and daily ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef - Obama Presidential Center

Chicago, IL

$75K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare, cook, and present high-quality food while maintaining consistency in flavor, presentation, and execution. * Assist with menu planning, recipe development, seasonal offerings, and daily ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef - Obama Presidential Center

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare, cook, and present high-quality food while maintaining consistency in flavor, presentation, and execution. * Assist with menu planning, recipe development, seasonal offerings, and daily ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef - Obama Presidential Center

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare, cook, and present high-quality food while maintaining consistency in flavor, presentation, and execution. * Assist with menu planning, recipe development, seasonal offerings, and daily ...

Bon Appetit

Sous Chef - Obama Presidential Center

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare, cook, and present high-quality food while maintaining consistency in flavor, presentation, and execution. * Assist with menu planning, recipe development, seasonal offerings, and daily ...

Advocate Aurora Health

Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.80 - $31.20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... recipe development and revision of recipes 4)Provides informational input into recipe standardization and creative production food. Adherence to strict deadlines regarding food production for each ...

Advocate Aurora Health

Cook Production III

Barrington, IL · On-site

$20.80 - $31.20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... recipe development and revision of recipes. 4)Provides informational input into recipe standardization and creative production food. Adherence to strict deadlines regarding food production for each ...

Advocate Aurora Health

Cook

Chicago, IL

$20.80 - $31.20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... recipe development and revision of recipes. 4)Provides informational input into recipe standardization and creative production food. Adherence to strict deadlines regarding food production for each ...

Skokie Country Club

Sous Chef

Glencoe, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with menu planning , recipe development, and seasonal menu adjustments * Skilled in inventory management , food cost control, and waste reduction * Ability to perform and lead effectively ...

Advocate Aurora Health

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.80 - $31.20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... recipe development and revision of recipes. 4)Provides informational input into recipe standardization and creative production food. Adherence to strict deadlines regarding food production for each ...

Skokie Country Club

Sous Chef

Glencoe, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with menu planning, recipe development, and seasonal menu adjustments * Skilled in inventory management, food cost control, and waste reduction * Ability to perform and lead effectively in ...

QUEST FOOD MANAGEMENT SERVICES LLC

Baker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Experience with recipe development and fine manipulation techniques. * Familiarity with balancing multiple tasks in a high-volume environment. * Strong communication skills to provide knowledge-based ...

Skokie Country Club

Sous Chef

Glencoe, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with menu planning , recipe development, and seasonal menu adjustments * Skilled in inventory management , food cost control, and waste reduction * Ability to perform and lead effectively ...

Kraft Heinz Company

Sci, R&D - Product Dev

Glenview, IL · On-site

$77K - $97K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Scientist, R&D Product Development - Cream Cheese Are you passionate about Food innovation and ... Write specifications that deliver consistent, high-quality products Recipe for Success: Apply now ...

Wonder Group, INC

Executive Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

Behind the scenes, Wonder owns and operates every step of the dining experience, from recipe development to the technology that powers our experience, allowing us to deliver quality, variety, and ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsRecipe Development JobsRecipe Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

Recipe Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.9K

$55K

$83.4K

How much do recipe development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for recipe development in Chicago, IL is $55,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,800.00 and $61,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in recipe development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Recipe Development, you need a strong culinary background, creativity in food pairing, and a solid understanding of nutrition and food science, often supported by a culinary degree or relevant experience. Familiarity with recipe management software, food costing tools, and kitchen equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, adaptability, and excellent communication skills help you refine recipes and collaborate with chefs, clients, or brands. These skills ensure the creation of innovative, reliable, and appealing recipes that meet both culinary standards and consumer expectations.

What are some common challenges faced in a recipe development role, and how can they be managed?

One of the main challenges in recipe development is balancing creativity with practicality, as recipes must be both innovative and reproducible by home cooks or commercial kitchens. Developers often need to test multiple iterations to ensure consistency, flavor, and clarity in instructions. Managing feedback from taste testers, nutritionists, and editorial teams is also key, requiring strong communication and flexibility. Staying organized and documenting each version meticulously helps streamline the process and minimize errors.

What is recipe development?

Recipe development is the process of creating, testing, and refining recipes to achieve desired flavors, textures, and presentation. This involves experimenting with ingredients, cooking methods, and measurements to ensure the final dish is both delicious and reliable. Professionals in recipe development often work for food brands, magazines, or restaurants, ensuring recipes are innovative, accurate, and easy for others to follow. The process may also include considering dietary restrictions, nutrition, and food trends.

What skills do you need to be a recipe development?

Recipe development requires strong culinary skills, creativity, and knowledge of food science to create and test new recipes. Attention to detail, proficiency with kitchen tools and ingredients, and the ability to adapt recipes based on feedback are essential. Good organizational skills and understanding of nutrition can also be beneficial.

What are the qualifications to get a recipe development job?

The qualifications to get a recipe development job depend greatly on your career path. If you start in the restaurant or fine dining industry, you may get a book deal to write about your restaurant’s food or ingredients. This requires years of patience and success as a cook. Others study food science or nutrition in college or at a culinary institute. Other recipe developers may have no formal background in food or food science, but they combine their passion for cooking with their writing skills and develop recipes for their audience.

How much do recipe developers get paid?

Recipe developers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Freelance recipe developers may charge per project or hour, with rates ranging from $20 to $100 or more per hour. Skills in food science, culinary arts, and food photography can influence earning potential.

How do you become a recipe developer?

To become a recipe developer, individuals typically gain culinary skills through formal education or hands-on experience in kitchens, and develop a strong understanding of food science and flavor pairing. Building a portfolio of tested recipes and proficiency with food photography or writing can also help establish credibility in the field.
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What are popular job titles related to Recipe Development jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Recipe Development jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Recipe Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Recipe Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recipe Development job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,071 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Sous Chef - Obama Presidential Center

Compass Group

Chicago, IL • On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,088 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

346th of 492 rated business services

Job description

Position Title: Sous Chef - Obama Presidential Center
Salary: $75,000 - $80,000 / year
Our Passion is Food!
At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding service! At Bon Appetit you won't find our managers referring to a corporate recipe book or our chefs microwaving the lunch special. We do not have standardized recipes or central commissaries, instead, our chefs and managers are expected to stay abreast of current culinary trends and bring cutting edge food into their cafes. We are a restaurant company that operates in contract food service. That means you will have the freedom to be creative, take risks, and truly shine. We are committed to our staff growing, trying new things, and learning all that they can. Our rapid growth and breadth of accounts translates into exciting opportunities for our people!
Job Summary
Join the opening team at the Obama Presidential Center and help bring a world-class culinary and hospitality program to one of Chicago's most anticipated cultural destinations. As Sous Chef, you will play a key leadership role in executing exceptional dining experiences across cafés, retail dining, and special events while supporting a mission-driven environment centered on community, culture, and hospitality.
Working alongside the Executive Chef, you will lead daily kitchen operations, coach and develop culinary associates, and ensure consistent execution of innovative, high-quality menus. This role is ideal for a hands-on culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys mentoring teams, and is passionate about delivering memorable guest experiences.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Support the Executive Chef in overseeing all day-to-day culinary operations across assigned dining venues and event spaces.
  • Lead and develop hourly culinary associates by providing coaching, training, and performance feedback.
  • Prepare, cook, and present high-quality food while maintaining consistency in flavor, presentation, and execution.
  • Assist with menu planning, recipe development, seasonal offerings, and daily specials.
  • Execute catering and special events ranging from intimate receptions to large-scale functions with precision and professionalism.
  • Monitor food quality, portioning, inventory, and production schedules to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.
  • Assist with purchasing, receiving, inventory management, and food cost control.
  • Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, HACCP, and workplace safety standards.
  • Support the rollout of new culinary concepts, menus, and operational initiatives in partnership with culinary leadership.
  • Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and hospitality that reflects the mission and values of the Obama Presidential Center.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Associate degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent combination of education and professional culinary experience.
  • 3+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience in high-volume restaurants, hotels, cultural institutions, or corporate dining environments.
  • Experience leading teams in complex foodservice operations with multiple service styles.
  • Strong catering and banquet production experience preferred.
  • Experience with large-scale production, batch cooking, and scratch cooking techniques.
  • Knowledge of current culinary trends with a passion for seasonal ingredients, quality, and presentation.
  • Proven understanding of food cost management, inventory control, purchasing, and labor efficiency.
  • Strong knowledge of HACCP, food safety, and sanitation practices.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Outlook, and other foodservice technology platforms.
  • ServSafe Certification preferred (or ability to obtain upon hire).
  • Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills with a collaborative, guest-focused approach.

At the Obama Presidential Center, you'll have the opportunity to help shape a culinary program that celebrates community, culture, and excellence while creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.
Apply to Bon Appetit today!
Bon Appetit is a member of Compass Group USA.
Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story
Associates at Bon Appetit are offered many fantastic benefits.
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.
https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_BAMCO.pdf
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.
Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Bon Appetit maintains a drug-free workplace.
Req ID: 1549369
Bon Appetit
JoEtta Barnes

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