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Research And Development Chef Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

koch

Mechanical Engineer Intern - Summer 2027

Evansville, IN · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

About Us: Koch Finishing Systems provides automated finishing equipment to a variety of industries ... Research & Development: Contribute to product development initiatives and innovation projects.

IDS International

Senior Systems Engineer

Edinburgh, IN · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

... Chef, FOG Projects, etc. * Exercise design, test and evaluation, modeling, and simulations, as well as research and development familiarity. Computer Skills: * Working knowledge of Microsoft Office ...

IDS International

Senior Systems Engineer

Franklin, IN · On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

... Chef, FOG Projects, etc. * Exercise design, test and evaluation, modeling, and simulations, as well as research and development familiarity. Computer Skills: * Working knowledge of Microsoft Office ...

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All JobsResearch And Development Chef JobsResearch And Development Chef Jobs in Indiana

Research And Development Chef information

See Indiana salary details

$46.2K

$96.9K

$157K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development chef in Indiana is $96,863.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,700.00 and $110,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research and development chef?

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 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 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.

How much do research and development chefs make?

Research and development chefs typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer size. Senior R&D chefs or those working for large food companies can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 with specialized skills and certifications.

How to become a research and development chef?

To become a research and development chef, individuals typically need a culinary degree or extensive cooking experience, along with knowledge of food science and product development. Skills in experimentation, creativity, and understanding of food safety are essential, and experience in a professional kitchen or food industry is often required. Certifications in food safety or culinary innovation can also enhance prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Chef jobs in Indiana?

For Research And Development Chef jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research And Development Chef jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Chef jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Research And Development Chef jobs?

Cities in Indiana 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 Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,863 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer Intern - Summer 2027

koch

Evansville, IN • On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

About Us:
Koch Finishing Systems provides automated finishing equipment to a variety of industries, including automotive, agriculture, general industry, aerospace, and defense. With five locations—Evansville, IN, Grand Rapids, MI, Rochester Hills, MI, Querétaro, MX, and Lichfield, UK—we are dedicated to delivering high-quality finishing solutions to clients around the world.

As a Mechanical Engineer Co-op, you will gain hands-on experience and rotate through multiple functional areas, including engineering, sales and estimating, field services, research and development, and manufacturing. This program is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of our business and develop your technical and professional skills.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Rotate through various departments, gaining experience in:
    • Engineering: Assist with the design, analysis, and testing of mechanical systems and components.
    • Sales & Estimating: Participate in cost estimations and customer proposals for new projects.
    • Field Services: Support project implementation and on-site installations, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
    • Research & Development: Contribute to product development initiatives and innovation projects.
    • Manufacturing: Assist in process improvements, workflow optimization, and quality control initiatives.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams on real-world projects.
  • Apply academic knowledge to solve complex challenges in a professional environment.
  • Prepare reports, presentations, and documentation as needed.

Qualifications:

  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
  • Strong interest in rotating through diverse functional areas.
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt to changing priorities.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office and basic engineering software tools.

What We Offer:

  • Mentorship from experienced engineers and professionals.
  • Real-world exposure to various aspects of mechanical engineering.
  • Opportunity to develop technical skills and grow professionally.
  • Competitive compensation and the potential for future full-time employment.

Apply