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Research And Development Chef Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Centennial, CO · On-site

$72K - $82K/yr

Research customer preferences and develops a menu which incorporates local foods and flavors ... Participates in the development and implementation of business strategies for the community which ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Centennial, CO · On-site

$72K - $82K/yr

Research customer preferences and develops a menu which incorporates local foods and flavors ... Participates in the development and implementation of business strategies for the community which ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Centennial, CO · On-site

$72K - $82K/yr

Research customer preferences and develops a menu which incorporates local foods and flavors ... Participates in the development and implementation of business strategies for the community which ...

Morrison Living

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Centennial, CO · On-site

$72K - $82K/yr

Research customer preferences and develops a menu which incorporates local foods and flavors ... Participates in the development and implementation of business strategies for the community which ...

Chefs' Warehouse

Accounts Payable Processor

Denver, CO · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

About The Chefs' Warehouse The Chefs' Warehouse, Inc. ( combines exceptional quality and brand ... Audit invoices against purchase orders, research discrepancies, and receives proper approval prior ...

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All JobsResearch And Development Chef JobsResearch And Development Chef Jobs in Colorado

Research And Development Chef information

See Colorado salary details

$51K

$107K

$173.5K

How much do research and development chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development chef in Colorado is $107,038.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research and Development Chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research and Development Chef, you need expertise in culinary techniques, food science, and recipe development, often supported by a culinary degree or equivalent professional experience. Familiarity with product development tools, food safety regulations, sensory evaluation methods, and sometimes certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help you innovate and work effectively across teams. These skills are vital to create appealing, safe, and commercially viable food products that meet consumer and market demands.

What are Research and Development Chefs?

Research and Development (R&D) Chefs are culinary professionals who create, test, and refine new recipes and food products for restaurants, food manufacturers, or hospitality companies. They work in kitchens and labs to innovate dishes, improve existing menu items, and ensure products meet quality, taste, and safety standards. R&D Chefs often collaborate with marketing, production, and nutrition teams to bring new culinary concepts to market. Their role combines creativity, technical culinary skills, and knowledge of food science.

How does a Research and Development Chef typically collaborate with other departments during the product development process?

A Research and Development Chef works closely with departments such as marketing, quality assurance, and production throughout the product development process. They often participate in cross-functional meetings to align culinary innovation with consumer trends, production capabilities, and regulatory requirements. Effective communication is essential, as the R&D Chef must translate creative ideas into scalable recipes while ensuring food safety and quality standards are met. This collaborative approach helps streamline the launch of new menu items or products and ensures that everyone is aligned from concept to commercialization.

What is the difference between Research And Development Chef vs Food Scientist?

AspectResearch And Development ChefFood Scientist
CredentialsCulinary degree, culinary certificationsDegree in food science, chemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, R&D labs, food companiesLaboratories, research facilities, food manufacturing plants
Industry UsageFood product development, recipe innovationFood safety, quality control, product testing
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Research And Development Chefs focus on creating new recipes and culinary innovations, often working in kitchens and food companies. Food Scientists analyze food properties, ensuring safety and quality in labs. While both roles contribute to food product development, R&D Chefs emphasize culinary creativity, whereas Food Scientists focus on scientific analysis and safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Chef jobs in Colorado? For Research And Development Chef jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research And Development Chef jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Research And Development Chef jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Research And Development Chef jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Research And Development Chef job openings:
Research And Development Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Chef job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,038 per year, or $51.5 per hour.
Senior R&D Development Chef (Pastry/Baking)

Senior R&D Development Chef (Pastry/Baking)

Dessert Holdings Inc.

Aurora, CO • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Dessert Holdings rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

212th of 432 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Senior R&D Development Chef (Pastry/Baking)


Dessert Holdings is the leading premium dessert company in the world. We craft artisanal, scratch-made desserts at scale, combining culinary innovation with the finest real ingredients. With a rich heritage spanning seven distinctive brands, we bring unmatched expertise and tailored solutions to our Retail and Foodservice partners.
Dessert Holdings is looking for a Senior R&D Development Chef to be based in our Aurora, CO location to use culinary knowledge and creative ability to develop new products for commercialization. From concept to prototype samples, this role is responsible for delivering products on time that meet taste, functionality, quality, and cost expectations. This position will be involved with documentation, formulations, pilot testing and commercialization touch points, vendor visits, ordering and testing raw materials, shelf-life studies, and kitchen/bench sanitation and cleanliness.
The typical hiring range for this role is $70,000 to $90,000 annually and is based on several factors such as education, work experience, skills, certifications, location, etc. In addition to pay, Dessert Holdings offers benefits such as a choice of comprehensive medical plans, dental and vision insurance, paid vacation and holidays, and retirement contribution to all eligible employees.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Research, formulate, and develop new bakery product concepts within time, cost, and processing requirements.
  • Construct proof of concept samples for new desserts to support innovation and sales; prepare and present samples and specifications for customer presentation and acceptance.
  • Stay current on culinary trends in desserts and baked goods and bring ideas into new product development.
  • Consult with vendors and suppliers, and internal partners like Quality, Sanitation, and Engineering to verify SOPs for products being tested for manufacturing.
  • Compile accurate and timely summaries, guidelines, test data, and trial plans.
  • Work with Supply Chain on sourcing new ingredients.
  • Improve product quality through ongoing review of formulation and ingredient parameters.
  • Maintain, organize, and keep refrigerators, freezers, and kitchen areas clean.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Associate's Degree in Pastry Arts/Baking; food science training or degree is beneficial (or Red Seal designation in Canada)
  • At least 5 years of hands-on experience in baking/pastry arts with exceptional palate, sensory, recipe development, and baking skills
  • Prior product commercialization experience required
  • Ability to work self-directed with strong time management, organizational, multi-tasking, and communication skills
  • Computer savvy in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and use tools and reach with hands and arms
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds, work around potential food allergens, and work in a variety of temperatures and with dampness or chemicals
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including extended hours and weekends, as required
  • Ability to travel up to 10 to 20% throughout North America

About Dessert Holdings
Dessert Holdings is a collection of premium dessert companies and brands: The Original Cakerie, Lawler's Desserts, Atlanta Cheesecake Company, Steven Charles, Dianne's Fine Desserts, Kenny's Great Pies, and Willamette Valley Pie Company. Dessert Holdings is owned by Bain Capital, is headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, employs more than 3,500 people across ten manufacturing facilities, and is continuing its journey of rapid growth.


EEO Statement
Dessert Holdings and its related entities provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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