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Research Chef Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Conduct merchandising research for customers regarding products to meet their needs * Review weekly ... chef experience Skills: * Proficient in Excel, Word, Microsoft Outlook, and some knowledge of ...

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Research Chef information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$44.7K

$81.5K

$129.3K

How much do research chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for research chef in Raleigh, NC is $81,450.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $114,200.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Chef jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Research Chef jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Chef jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Research Chef jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Chef jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Research Chef jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Research Chef jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Research Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Chef job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,450 per year, or $39.2 per hour.
Luxury Watchmaker - REEDS Jewelers, Fenton

Luxury Watchmaker - REEDS Jewelers, Fenton

REEDS Jewelers

Cary, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Reeds Jewelers Inc. rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 28 rated jewelry retailers


Job description

A New Landmark Store. A Timeless Career Opportunity.

At REEDS Jewelers, we believe that every milestone deserves to be celebrated, and every moment honored with meaning. As we approach our 79th anniversary, we are proud to open our newest luxury retail destination at Fenton in Cary, NC—a premier, walkable urban village blending luxury retail, chef-driven dining, upscale living, and entertainment in one of the Southeast’s most dynamic markets.

Fenton is a mixed-use development designed to elevate the retail experience—bringing together national brands, local favorites, and modern amenities just minutes from downtown Raleigh and Research Triangle Park. This location will feature top luxury brands and offers immense opportunity for sales success within a growing and vibrant community.

The Raleigh-Durham area was ranked among the Top 10 Best Places to Live by U.S. News & World Report (2024–2025) and is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Southeast. This market presents unparalleled potential for both personal and professional growth.

As one of the largest national family-owned jewelers in the country, REEDS is proud to honor our values and legacy while remaining forward-leaning, modernized, and always growing.

We are seeking an experienced Watchmaker to join our growing team at Fenton. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate craftsperson to join a luxury service environment, working with world-class timepieces. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, technically skilled, and thrives in a high-volume, fast-paced setting.

Key Responsibilities

Luxury Timepiece Repair & Service

  • Diagnose mechanical and automatic watch issues with precision
  • Perform comprehensive service and repairs
  • Provide accurate repair estimates and service recommendations
  • Maintain detailed records of all repairs, services, and parts used
  • Ensure exceptional craftsmanship and adherence to brand standards

Operational Excellence

  • Communicate clearly and professionally with team members and clients regarding timelines, estimates, and service expectations
  • Maintain and calibrate watchmaking tools, machines, and equipment to ensure optimal function
  • Monitor and manage inventory of watch parts, ordering as needed to support timely repairs
  • Forecast and organize repair workload to consistently meet performance expectations
  • Support store operations with a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach

Client Engagement & Support

  • Partner with the sales team to support client consultations and elevate the luxury service experience
  • Serve as a brand ambassador for craftsmanship and technical excellence

This team member must embody REEDS' core values:

  • Integrity – We live ethically and honestly in every moment and interaction.
  • Performance Excellence – We pursue success relentlessly and learn from every experience.
  • Stewardship – We honor the trust placed in us by our associates, clients, and communities.
  • Professionalism – We attract and grow exceptional talent through development and self-leadership.
  • Entrepreneurial Spirit – We embrace imagination, creativity, and forward-thinking action.
  • Team Orientation – We thrive through collaboration, shared goals, and mutual respect.
  • Passion – Our love for what we do drives extraordinary customer experiences—and makes it fun.

Requirements

  • Qualifications
    • Minimum 3 years of proven experience as a Watchmaker in a luxury or high-end retail environment
    • In-depth technical knowledge of mechanical and automatic movements, repairs, and servicing
    • Skilled in polishing, refinishing, and using watchmaking equipment
    • Ability to work with extreme precision and a high level of detail
    • Strong communication and organizational skills
    • Basic computer proficiency and experience managing repair workflows
    • Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S.
    • Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods as required

Benefits

REEDS Jewelers offers a comprehensive compensation program that includes health/dental/life/LTD insurance, 401k, merchandise discounts, career growth and a drug free workplace.

REEDS Jewelers is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value the diversity of our team, and employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. REEDS provides a smoke and drug-free environment.


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