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Research Chef Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

WELCH 3 HOLDINGS INC

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 ...

WELCH 3 HOLDINGS INC

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 ...

WELCH 3 HOLDINGS INC

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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All JobsResearch Chef JobsResearch Chef Jobs in Colorado

Research Chef information

See Colorado salary details

$48.4K

$88.1K

$139.9K

How much do research chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 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.

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 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.

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 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.

More about Research Chef jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Chef jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Research Chef jobs in Colorado are:
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 job categories do people searching Research Chef jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Research Chef jobs in Colorado 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:
Research Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Chef job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,111 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Senior R&D Development Chef (Pastry/Baking)

Senior R&D Development Chef (Pastry/Baking)

Dessert Holdings Inc.

Aurora, CO • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Dessert Holdings rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

212th of 432 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Senior R&D Development Chef (Pastry/Baking)


Dessert Holdings is the leading premium dessert company in the world. We craft artisanal, scratch-made desserts at scale, combining culinary innovation with the finest real ingredients. With a rich heritage spanning seven distinctive brands, we bring unmatched expertise and tailored solutions to our Retail and Foodservice partners.
Dessert Holdings is looking for a Senior R&D Development Chef to be based in our Aurora, CO location to use culinary knowledge and creative ability to develop new products for commercialization. From concept to prototype samples, this role is responsible for delivering products on time that meet taste, functionality, quality, and cost expectations. This position will be involved with documentation, formulations, pilot testing and commercialization touch points, vendor visits, ordering and testing raw materials, shelf-life studies, and kitchen/bench sanitation and cleanliness.
The typical hiring range for this role is $70,000 to $90,000 annually and is based on several factors such as education, work experience, skills, certifications, location, etc. In addition to pay, Dessert Holdings offers benefits such as a choice of comprehensive medical plans, dental and vision insurance, paid vacation and holidays, and retirement contribution to all eligible employees.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Research, formulate, and develop new bakery product concepts within time, cost, and processing requirements.
  • Construct proof of concept samples for new desserts to support innovation and sales; prepare and present samples and specifications for customer presentation and acceptance.
  • Stay current on culinary trends in desserts and baked goods and bring ideas into new product development.
  • Consult with vendors and suppliers, and internal partners like Quality, Sanitation, and Engineering to verify SOPs for products being tested for manufacturing.
  • Compile accurate and timely summaries, guidelines, test data, and trial plans.
  • Work with Supply Chain on sourcing new ingredients.
  • Improve product quality through ongoing review of formulation and ingredient parameters.
  • Maintain, organize, and keep refrigerators, freezers, and kitchen areas clean.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Associate's Degree in Pastry Arts/Baking; food science training or degree is beneficial (or Red Seal designation in Canada)
  • At least 5 years of hands-on experience in baking/pastry arts with exceptional palate, sensory, recipe development, and baking skills
  • Prior product commercialization experience required
  • Ability to work self-directed with strong time management, organizational, multi-tasking, and communication skills
  • Computer savvy in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and use tools and reach with hands and arms
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds, work around potential food allergens, and work in a variety of temperatures and with dampness or chemicals
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including extended hours and weekends, as required
  • Ability to travel up to 10 to 20% throughout North America

About Dessert Holdings
Dessert Holdings is a collection of premium dessert companies and brands: The Original Cakerie, Lawler's Desserts, Atlanta Cheesecake Company, Steven Charles, Dianne's Fine Desserts, Kenny's Great Pies, and Willamette Valley Pie Company. Dessert Holdings is owned by Bain Capital, is headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, employs more than 3,500 people across ten manufacturing facilities, and is continuing its journey of rapid growth.


EEO Statement
Dessert Holdings and its related entities provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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