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Research And Development Chef Jobs in Madison, WI

Sysco

Sales Representative

Madison, WI · On-site

... or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class Sales Team and ... Research customer business needs and develops a mix of products and service to meet needs.

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All JobsResearch And Development Chef JobsResearch And Development Chef Jobs in Madison, WI

Research And Development Chef information

See Madison, WI salary details

$48.9K

$102.6K

$166.3K

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

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development chef in Madison, WI is $102,570.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,100.00 and $117,400.00 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 Madison, WI?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Chef jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Research And Development Chef jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,570 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

Sales Consultant- Quad Cities

Windsor, WI • On-site

D'Artagnan, Inc.
Food Services and Drinking Places • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about D'Artagnan, Inc.external

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full Time Sales Windsor, WI, US

7 days ago Requisition ID: 2219

Sales Consultant (SC)

The Sales Consultant (SC) plays a vital role in the Fortune Fish & Gourmet sales division by building strong, profitable customer relationships through tailored solutions and exceptional service. Collaborating with chefs, restaurateurs, hospitality professionals, and retailers, the SC drives revenue and gross profit through strategic customer alignment and expert product promotion with professionalism and culinary passion.

The SC fosters partnerships by recommending an optimized product mix, delivering outstanding customer service, and resolving service issues diplomatically in coordination with product, logistics, and finance teams.

Location

Quad Cities metropolitan area

Key Responsibilities Sales Development and Customer Relationships
  • Cultivate new business opportunities through networking, consultative sales approaches, and a deep understanding of customer needs.
  • Manage and expand existing accounts by building trust and providing creative, customized product solutions.
  • Collaborate with chefs, restaurant owners, and other stakeholders to exceed their expectations, understanding their unique requirements and business goals.
Product Expertise and Market Knowledge
  • Represent and promote premium seafood, humanely raised meat, poultry, game, and gourmet products (cheese, chocolate, etc.).
  • Stay abreast of industry trends, customer preferences, and market dynamics to provide informed recommendations and drive sales.
Operational Excellence
  • Partner with Product, Category, Purchasing and Operations teams to align inventory levels with customer demands, ensuring timely deliveries.
  • Coordinate with the Accounting team to establish credit terms and ensure all required documentation is accurately filed.
Sales Strategy, Organization and Administration
  • Develop and execute strategic sales plans to meet and exceed performance targets.
  • Organize and prioritize daily activities to ensure timely follow-ups, product delivery coordination, and issue resolution.
  • Prepare compelling proposals, maintain detailed sales records, and report progress against goals.
  • Utilize internal customer management systems, social media platforms, and trade directories to research and identify prospects.
Customer Engagement and Problem-Solving
  • Act as a trusted consultant to clients, address inquiries and resolving issues with urgency and precision.
  • Conduct follow-ups to ensure customer satisfaction and establish long‑term partnerships.
Team Collaboration and Pricing Strategy
  • Work closely with senior staff and Sales Director to develop competitive pricing strategies tailored to customer needs.
  • Contribute to a team of passionate professionals, fostering a culture of innovation, teamwork, and shared success.
Experience
  • 2+ years of outside sales experience in perishable food products; seafood experience is highly preferred.
  • 2–5 years of professional sales in the foodservice industry, or 5–7 years in chef/restaurant management.
Education
  • Degree in Business, Sales, Marketing, Hospitality, Culinary Arts preferred, or 3+ years of relevant industry experience.
Skills
  • Advanced English verbal communication skills
  • Ability to quickly learn company products, systems, and operations.
  • Proficiency in MS Office, Presentation Software, Social Media Platforms
Personal Attributes
  • Highly motivated, personable, and capable of thriving in a fast‑paced environment.
  • Open to change and quick to adopt new technologies and processes.
  • Self‑starter with a history of success in managing time and priorities effectively.
  • Detail‑oriented, enthusiastic, and resourceful while maintaining professionalism.

Fortune Fish & Gourmet is an equal opportunity employer.

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