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Research And Development Chef Jobs in Chicago, IL

Bell Flavors & Fragrances

Research Chef

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

Bell Flavors & Fragrances, Inc. is seeking a creative and hands-on Research Chef to join our ... This role supports culinary innovation through concept development, prototype creation, recipe and ...

Bell Flavors & Fragrances

Research Chef

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

Bell Flavors & Fragrances, Inc. is seeking a creative and hands-on Research Chef to join our ... This role supports culinary innovation through concept development, prototype creation, recipe and ...

Maple

Maple & Ash Chicago - Chef De Cuisine

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

Who You Are The R&D Chef is the culinary architect for the brand, bridging the gap between Michelin-caliber artistry and multi-unit scalability. This role demands a rare hybrid of elite creativity ...

Boar's Head Brand

Culinary Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$147K/yr

Additionally, the Culinary Development Chef will be responsible for developing and implementing new ... Maintain strategic accountability for all product development and research, including management ...

Boar's Head Brand

Culinary Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$147K/yr

Additionally, the Culinary Development Chef will be responsible for developing and implementing new ... Maintain strategic accountability for all product development and research, including management ...

CONAGRA

R&D Intern - Summer 2027 (Chicago)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Reddi-wip, Slim Jim, Angie's BOOMCHICKPOP, Chef Boyardee, Swiss Miss and more! What Can You Expect from Your Internship? You will be immersed into Conagra Brands and our Research & Development ...

Alla Vita - Chicago

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$70K - $74K/yr

Support menu development, seasonal changes, and R&D * Oversee prep, line execution, and BOH systems ... A career chef with 2-3+ years of Sous Chef experience * Experienced in fine-dining or high-volume ...

Adalina Prime

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

The Sous Chef is a key leadership role within the Adalina Prime culinary team. This position ... R&D initiatives. Operations & Execution * Oversee daily kitchen service, ensuring smooth ...

Compass Group

REGIONAL CHEF

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114K - $124K/yr

You will be responsible for the research, testing, development, documenting, training, implementing ... Orientates new Chefs within their respective Core Culinary Standards, and established food programs.

Compass Group

REGIONAL CHEF

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114K - $124K/yr

You will be responsible for the research, testing, development, documenting, training, implementing ... Orientates new Chefs within their respective Core Culinary Standards, and established food programs.

Compass Group

REGIONAL CHEF

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114K - $124K/yr

You will be responsible for the research, testing, development, documenting, training, implementing ... Orientates new Chefs within their respective Core Culinary Standards, and established food programs.

Compass Corporate

REGIONAL CHEF

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114K - $124K/yr

You will be responsible for the research, testing, development, documenting, training, implementing ... Orientates new Chefs within their respective Core Culinary Standards, and established food programs.

Swift & Sons

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$68K - $73K/yr

Continually working through R&D process with the Executive Chef to further dishes on the menu Qualifications: * Steakhouse experience appreciated, but not required * 2-3 years of experience in a Sous ...

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All JobsResearch And Development Chef JobsResearch And Development Chef Jobs in Chicago, IL

Research And Development Chef information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$50K

$104.9K

$170.1K

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development chef in Chicago, IL is $104,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $120,100.00 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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Research And Development Chef jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Chef jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Research And Development Chef jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,945 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Research Chef

Bell Flavors & Fragrances

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Bell Flavors & Fragrances, Inc. is seeking a creative and hands-on Research Chef to join our Research & Development team in Northbrook, IL. This role supports culinary innovation through concept development, prototype creation, recipe and formula testing, product demonstrations, and collaboration with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate is passionate about food, skilled in culinary execution, and excited to apply food science principles in a product development environment.

Your Key Responsibilities:

  • Research, source, and prepare high-quality food concepts and prototypes for appropriate business channels.
  • Support day-to-day test kitchen operations, including inventory, organization, cleaning materials, and kitchen readiness.
  • Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and R&D to deliver innovative product concepts in a timely and fiscally responsible manner.
  • Write, test, edit, and improve proprietary commercial formulas and home-cook recipes while maintaining formula and recipe integrity.
  • Demonstrate cooking methods, train others on basic culinary skills, and showcase Bell products.
  • Coordinate food products and presentation materials for customer meetings, trade shows, internal events, and product demonstrations.
  • Maintain accurate scientific notebooks, data records, and documentation to support reliable decision-making.
  • Travel up to 20% of the time for customer presentations, trade shows, demonstrations, and related business activities.

 Your Qualifications:

  • Associate degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent restaurant industry experience required.                         
  • Bachelor’s degree in culinary science, Food Science, Culinology, or a related field required.
  • 3–6 years of experience working for a food manufacturer preferred.
  • Minimum of one year of food product development experience in a multi-project environment.
  • Strong professional cooking skills and experience developing manufactured food products from raw ingredients to finished consumer-packaged goods.
  • Basic understanding of food science principles, including preservative systems, gums, starches, emulsifiers, flavors, sweeteners, and basic chemistry.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
  • Strong written, verbal, communication, presentation, interpersonal, and team-building skills.
  • Passion for food, cooking, product innovation, and demonstrating culinary applications.

 Why Join Us?

  • Competitive salary range of $50,000 - $100,000
  • Full-time benefits package
  • Ideal role for a chef who enjoys hands-on development, customer-facing demonstrations, and bringing innovative food concepts to life.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
  • Be part of a supportive and collaborative team
  • Commitment to diversity and inclusion

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