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Research Chef Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Chef

Littleton, CO

$1.5K - $1.7K/wk

Are you a skilled chef passionate about adventure and making a difference? Polar Field Services ... Be part of a dedicated team supporting cutting-edge scientific research About Polar Field Services ...

Executive Chef

Longmont, CO · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Use market research to develop new products * Responsible for maintaining quality of food product ... Chef or an Exec Sous Chef * Management experience required * Graduate of an accredited Culinary ...

Executive Chef

Longmont, CO · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Use market research to develop new products * Responsible for maintaining quality of food product ... Chef or an Exec Sous Chef * Management experience required * Graduate of an accredited Culinary ...

Executive Chef

Longmont, CO · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Use market research to develop new products * Responsible for maintaining quality of food product ... Chef or an Exec Sous Chef * Management experience required * Graduate of an accredited Culinary ...

Executive Chef

Westminster, CO · On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

Use market research to develop new products * Responsible for maintaining quality of food product ... Chef or an Exec Sous Chef * Management experience required * Graduate of an accredited Culinary ...

Chef - Winter Season

Winter Park, CO · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Plan and develop with Executive Chef menus for outlets and all specialty menus to research, develop, modify and test recipes * Supervise, staff, coordinate and participate in the daily operations of ...

Plan and develop with Executive Chef menus for outlets and all specialty menus to research, develop, modify and test recipes * Supervise, staff, coordinate and participate in the daily operations of ...

Plan and develop with Executive Chef menus for outlets and all specialty menus to research, develop, modify and test recipes * Supervise, staff, coordinate and participate in the daily operations of ...

Plan and develop with Executive Chef menus for outlets and all specialty menus to research, develop, modify and test recipes * Supervise, staff, coordinate and participate in the daily operations of ...

Plan and develop with Executive Chef menus for outlets and all specialty menus to research, develop, modify and test recipes * Supervise, staff, coordinate and participate in the daily operations of ...

Plan and develop with Executive Chef menus for outlets and all specialty menus to research, develop, modify and test recipes * Supervise, staff, coordinate and participate in the daily operations of ...

Sous Chef

Denver, CO · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Collaborate with ownership, the Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager on menu development, R&D, costing, and recipe documentation for both concepts. * Mentor and train line cooks in culinary skills ...

New

Plan and develop with Executive Chef menus for outlets and all specialty menus to research, develop, modify and test recipes * Supervise, staff, coordinate and participate in the daily operations of ...

Plan and develop with Executive Chef menus for outlets and all specialty menus to research, develop, modify and test recipes * Supervise, staff, coordinate and participate in the daily operations of ...

AM/PM - Sous Chef Cook

Denver, CO · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Create menus according to season and customer research * Set up the kitchen with necessary tools ... Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management Qualifications: * Previous ...

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Showing results 1-20

Research Chef information

See Colorado salary details

$48.4K

$88.1K

$139.9K

How much do research chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for research chef in Colorado is $88,111.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,300.00 and $123,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research chef?

A research chef, also known as a culinary scientist, combines culinary arts with food science to develop new recipes, food products, and menu items. They often work for food manufacturers, restaurant chains, or research and development labs, focusing on creating innovative foods that are both tasty and safe. Research chefs collaborate with food scientists, nutritionists, and marketing teams to ensure products meet quality standards, regulatory requirements, and consumer preferences. Their role is essential in bringing new food concepts from the kitchen to large-scale production.

What does a research chef do?

A research chef is a culinary professional who oversees the research and development of new recipes and food products. As a research chef, your responsibilities include assessing current offerings, working with food scientists to brainstorm concepts, and developing new recipes and products. You work in a test kitchen, either alone or with a team, to develop and test new foods for restaurants or food manufacturers. Your job is to be innovative and creative in your quest to meet consumer desires and the manufacturer or restaurants needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Chef, you need a strong background in culinary arts combined with food science knowledge, often supported by a culinary degree and experience in product development. Familiarity with food safety standards, recipe management software, and laboratory equipment is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you innovate and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure the successful development of safe, appealing, and market-ready food products that meet consumer and industry needs.

How does a research chef typically collaborate with product development and marketing teams?

A Research Chef works closely with product development teams to translate culinary concepts into scalable food products, ensuring flavor, texture, and appearance meet both culinary and manufacturing standards. They also partner with marketing teams to align product features with current food trends and consumer preferences, often participating in taste panels and brainstorming sessions. This collaborative approach ensures that new products are both innovative and commercially viable, and fosters a dynamic work environment where ideas from multiple disciplines are integrated into the final product.

What is the difference between Research Chef vs Food Scientist?

AspectResearch ChefFood Scientist
Required CredentialsCooking skills, culinary training, sometimes culinary degreesDegree in food science, chemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentTest kitchens, culinary labs, food companiesLaboratories, research facilities, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing, product development, culinary innovationFood production, quality control, research & development

Research Chefs focus on developing new food products through culinary expertise and practical testing, often working in kitchens and food companies. Food Scientists typically conduct scientific research to improve food safety, quality, and processing, working mainly in labs. Both roles are essential in food innovation but differ in their approach and work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Research Chef jobs in Colorado?

For Research Chef jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Research Chef jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Research Chef job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Research Chef jobs in CO?

For Research Chef jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Research Chef job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,111 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Polar Field Services, Inc.
Environmental Consulting Services • 51 - 200 employees

$1.5K - $1.7K/wk

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Polar Field Services, Inc. is Seeking an Adventurous Seasonal Chef

Join our team in the heart of the Arctic!

Are you a skilled chef passionate about adventure and making a difference? Polar Field Services, Inc. is seeking a talented individual to join our team as a seasonal Chef at Summit Station, Greenland.

About the Role: As our Chef, you'll play a vital role in supporting our field operations. Your culinary expertise will ensure our team is well-nourished and energized to tackle the challenges of Arctic research. You'll work in a state-of-the-art kitchen, preparing delicious and varied meals while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and hygiene.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare well-balanced meals for our team, adhering to dietary requirements and preferences.
  • Manage food inventory and adjust menus as needed.
  • Maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment.
  • Contribute to a positive and collaborative team atmosphere.

Qualifications:

  • 3+ years of experience cooking in a commercial kitchen
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Passion for adventure and a willingness to work in a remote environment

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary of $1500-$1750/week
  • Opportunity to work in a unique and challenging environment
  • Be part of a dedicated team supporting cutting-edge scientific research

About Polar Field Services, Inc.: Since 1999, Polar Field Services has been providing comprehensive logistical support for scientific expeditions in remote regions. We are committed to providing our team members with excellent compensation, benefits, and a supportive work environment.

Ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure? Apply now and join our team of dedicated professionals!

Location: Summit Station, Greenland

Work Schedule: 54 hours over a 6-day workweek, Monday-Saturday. Seasonal deployments typically run from April-June and June-September.


Job offers are contingent on the completion of a satisfactory background check and may include physical and dental examinations as required by the National Science Foundation.