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Research And Development Chef Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Dixboro Project

Executive Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development * Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in ...

The Dixboro Project

Executive Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development * Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in ...

PARC DETROIT

Executive Chef

Detroit, MI · On-site

$86K - $105K/yr

Lead tasting, testing, and R&D processes to ensure dishes meet the highest standards of flavor ... Mentor sous chefs and key culinary leaders to build long-term bench strength.* Lead by example ...

Continental Services

Executive Chef

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

Executive Chef Department: Fanuc 700179 Employment Type: Full Time Location: Fanuc Reporting To ... Conduct research and development of new culinary trends and ideas for menus. * Oversee menu testing ...

Continental Services

Executive Chef

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Sous Chef, Cooks and Dishwasher staff. * Responsible for menu development ... Conduct research and development of new culinary trends and ideas for menus. * Oversee menu testing ...

University of Michigan

Sous Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$48K - $66K/yr

... service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan ... Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated Sous Chef to oversee the daily operations of our Pavilion ...

Continental Services

Chef Manager

Troy, MI · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Description The Chef Manager is primarily responsible for culinary preparation, business ... Conduct research and development of new culinary trends and ideas for menus. 5. Complete weekly ...

Charlestowne Hotels

Executive Chef

Midland, MI · On-site

$56K - $77K/yr

... member development. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS * Responsible for enhancing the food product that is ... Use market research to develop new products. * Responsible for maintaining quality of food product ...

Koch Industries

Engineering Co-op

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Provide hands-on experimentation support for R&D projects. * Support root cause analysis using ... Knowledge of an experience with CAD software, specifically NX At Koch companies, we are ...

Sidecar Plymouth LLC

Sushi Line Cook

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Training & development Benefits/Perks * Flexible Scheduling * Competitive Compensation * Career ... Create menus according to season and customer research * Set up the kitchen with necessary tools ...

Vecino

Line Chef

Detroit, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

This is a chance to do serious cooking: an in-house masa program with heirloom corn nixtamalized and stone-ground daily, a menu that moves between Mexican tradition and invention, and constant R&D ...

Sidecar Plymouth LLC

Line Cook

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Training & development Benefits/Perks * Flexible Scheduling * Competitive Compensation * Career ... Create menus according to season and customer research * Set up the kitchen with necessary tools ...

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All JobsResearch And Development Chef JobsResearch And Development Chef Jobs in Michigan

Research And Development Chef information

See Michigan salary details

$42.3K

$88.7K

$143.8K

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development chef in Michigan is $88,723.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $101,500.00 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

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

Cities in Michigan 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 Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,723 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Executive Chef

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

The Dixboro Project
See more jobs at The Dixboro Projectexternal

$95K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description

Nestled in the historic village of Dixboro, The Dixboro Project sits at the intersection of world-class dining, transformational hospitality, and abundant nature. Led by acclaimed Chef Partner Garrett Lipar, our culinary program celebrates the seasons, the Great Lakes region, and the relationships we build with local farmers, producers, and artisans.


We're seeking an experienced Executive Chef to help lead and evolve one of Michigan's most ambitious culinary programs. This is an opportunity for a proven culinary leader to partner closely with Garrett while overseeing all day-to-day kitchen operations, team development, systems management, and culinary execution across the property.


If you are passionate about ingredient-driven cooking, building strong teams, developing future leaders, and creating exceptional guest experiences through food, we'd love to meet you.


WHAT YOU'LL DO:

  • Lead all day-to-day back-of-house operations across a high-volume, chef-driven culinary program
  • Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development
  • Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in accountability, professionalism, and growth
  • Oversee ordering, inventory, food cost management, labor performance, and operational systems
  • Drive consistency, quality, organization, and execution across all services and culinary offerings
  • Create and maintain systems that support efficiency, cleanliness, food safety, and operational excellence
  • Participate in hiring, onboarding, training, coaching, and performance management of kitchen team members
  • Lead service with a strong presence, providing direction and support during prep and peak operating periods

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:

  • 5+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience in high-level, chef-driven restaurant environments
  • Proven experience managing kitchen operations, food cost, labor cost, inventory, and purchasing systems
  • Strong leadership presence with the ability to build culture, accountability, and team engagement
  • Deep understanding of seasonality, sourcing, technique, and modern culinary execution
  • Experience leading menu development, recipe costing, and implementation of new culinary programs
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Availability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and other hours as needed to support the business

WHY WORK WITH US:

  • Be part of a leadership team shaping one of Michigan's most respected and ambitious hospitality organizations
  • Opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and advancement
  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits with company contributions
  • Company-sponsored short-term disability insurance
  • Paid time off and paid sick time programs that support work-life balance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Dining discounts across all The Pulpo Group concepts

Requirements

  • Stand and move throughout kitchen and restaurant spaces for extended periods
  • Lift and carry up to 50 lbs occasionally and 25 lbs regularly
  • Safely operate kitchen equipment, knives, and culinary tools
  • Work in hot, fast-paced, and physically demanding kitchen environments
  • Bend, reach, twist, kneel, and perform repetitive kitchen tasks throughout shifts

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