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Research And Development Chef Jobs in Houston, TX

Executive Chef

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Pursue ongoing education and research in food techniques to stay sharp and proactive, ahead of the ... Develop the foundation of the Sixty Vines culinary future through training and development of the ...

Sous Chef

Houston, TX · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Join the Sous Chef Opening Team for the menu R&D for two new restaurants and 4 concepts currently part of our 38 million dollar renovation. If you are excited at the prospect of bringing innovative ...

Sous Chef

Houston, TX · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

Join the Sous Chef Opening Team for the menu R&D for two new restaurants and 4 concepts currently part of our 38 million dollar renovation. If you are excited at the prospect of bringing innovative ...

Executive Chef

Houston, TX · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Growth and leadership development opportunities EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS * 3-5 years of ... Research culinary techniques and trends to keep our menu relevant and ahead of the curve * Support ...

Executive Chef

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Growth and leadership development opportunities EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS * 3-5 years of ... Research culinary techniques and trends to keep our menu relevant and ahead of the curve * Support ...

Sous Chef

Houston, TX · On-site

$29.81 - $35.82/hr

... research, education, and prevention. Within the RS Production department, the Sous Chef plays a key ... development, and drives food safety and quality standards across multiple service areas. The Sous ...

Sous Chef

Houston, TX · On-site

$29.81 - $35.82/hr

... research, education, and prevention. Within the RS Production department, the Sous Chef plays a key ... development, and drives food safety and quality standards across multiple service areas. The Sous ...

IT Architect

Houston, TX · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Houston, Texas | Scottsdale, Arizona | Tulsa, Oklahoma | Wichita, Kansas Koch Engineered Solutions ... Conduct research, proof of concepts, and technology assessments to validate potential solutions and ...

IT Architect

Houston, TX · On-site

$145K - $165K/yr

Your Job Koch Engineered Solutions is seeking an IT Architect to help identify, evaluate, and ... Conduct research, proof of concepts, and technology assessments to validate potential solutions and ...

Located steps from the nations largest medical and research community at Texas Medical Center, near ... Career development opportunities in a luxury hospitality environment * Free meals * Free parking ...

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Research And Development Chef information

See Houston, TX salary details

$46.3K

$97.2K

$157.6K

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development chef in Houston, TX is $97,210.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $111,300.00 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 Houston, TX?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Chef jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Research And Development Chef jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Research And Development Chef job openings:

Infographic showing various Research And Development Chef job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,210 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

R&D Analytical Chemist

Koch Industries

Katy, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Koch Industries rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 547 rated manufacturers


Job description

Location(s)
Katy, Texas
Company
INVISTA
Career Field
Research & Development/Sciences
Job Number
192468

What Koch Industries employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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