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Research Chef Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Shyamaji Inc

Chef

East Tawas, MI · On-site

$16/hr

Create menus according to season and customer research * Set up the kitchen with necessary tools ... Previous experience as a chef or cook * Certification from culinary school preferred * ServeSafe or ...

VA Enterprises

Private Chef

Grand Rapids, MI

Private Chef ID: 1124 Location: Grand Rapids, MI Department: Private Household More about this job ... Research and prepare diverse menus for Principals' review, incorporating preferences, dietary ...

vaenterprises

Private Chef

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

Research and prepare diverse menus for Principals' review, incorporating preferences, dietary ... Maintain a clean and sanitary chef kitchen and chef pantry, ensuring the highest health, sanitation ...

The Dixboro Project

Executive Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development * Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in ...

The Dixboro Project

Executive Chef

Ann Arbor, MI

$95K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development * Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in ...

The DIXBORO PROJECT

Executive Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development * Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in ...

The Dixboro Project

Executive Chef

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partner with Chef Partner Garrett Lipar on menu development, seasonal evolution, tastings, and research & development * Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team rooted in ...

Continental Services

Executive Chef - Commissary Chef

Troy, MI · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Sous Chef, Cooks and Dishwasher staff. * Responsible for menu development ... Conduct research and development of new culinary trends and ideas for menus. * Oversee menu testing ...

New

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Holland, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert and baking recipes to ensure that each guest and crew have an exceptional dining experience. While ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Alpena, MI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert and baking recipes to ensure that each guest and crew have an exceptional dining experience. While ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Alpena, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert and baking recipes to ensure that each guest and crew have an exceptional dining experience. While ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Holland, MI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert and baking recipes to ensure that each guest and crew have an exceptional dining experience. While ...

THE ELIA GROUP LLC

Executive Chef

Detroit, MI

$82K - $95K/yr

Lead tasting, testing, and R&D processes to ensure dishes meet the highest standards of flavor ... Mentor sous chefs and key culinary leaders to build long-term bench strength.Lead by example ...

PARC DETROIT

Executive Chef

Detroit, MI

$76K - $84K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Lead tasting, testing, and R&D processes to ensure dishes meet the highest standards of flavor ... Mentor sous chefs and key culinary leaders to build long-term bench strength. * Lead by example ...

Continental Services

Executive Chef - Commissary Chef

Troy, MI

$67K - $93K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Sous Chef, Cooks and Dishwasher staff. * Responsible for menu development ... Conduct research and development of new culinary trends and ideas for menus. * Oversee menu testing ...

New

Continental Services

Chef Manager

Southfield, MI · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Chef Manager Department: Barton Malow 700183 Employment Type: Full Time Location: Barton Malow ... Conduct research and development of new culinary trends and ideas for menus. 5. Complete weekly ...

Azul Hospitality

Sous Chef ("Segundo Chef")

Detroit, MI · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Use market research to develop new products. * Read menu to estimate food requirements. Order food ... Chef. Work in support of team goals and measures effectiveness through Food Cost, Payroll and Food ...

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All JobsResearch Chef JobsResearch Chef Jobs in Michigan

Research Chef information

See Michigan salary details

$40.1K

$73K

$115.9K

How much do research chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for research chef in Michigan is $73,034.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $102,400.00 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

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What job categories do people searching Research Chef jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Chef jobs in Michigan are:

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Cities in Michigan with the most Research Chef job openings:

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

Research Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Chef job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,034 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Chef

Shyamaji Inc

East Tawas, MI • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee discounts
  • Free uniforms

Benefits/Perks
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
Job Summary
We are seeking a talented Chef to join our team. In this role, you’ll be responsible for creating innovative menus and preparing delicious meals for our customers. The ideal candidate is experienced, creative, and able to delegate tasks to kitchen staff. If you have a passion for creating meals that “wow,” we want to hear from you. 
Responsibilities: 
  • Create menus according to season and customer research
  • Set up the kitchen with necessary tools and equipment
  • Prepare food and present it in an appealing manner
  • Supervise and delegate tasks to other team members
  • Maintain appropriate levels of inventory and restock when necessary
  • Follow all food safety regulations
Qualifications: 
  • Previous experience as a chef or cook
  • Certification from culinary school preferred
  • ServeSafe or Food Handler’s Certification
  • Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques and recipes
  • Ability to remain calm and thrive under pressure
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Strong leadership skills