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Research Chef Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Develops new products by identifying potential customer verticals, conducting market research ... Jenkins, Chef, Puppet, Ansible, Salt, and Cloudformation) • Experience in designing HA, DR ...

Develops new products by identifying potential customer verticals, conducting market research ... Chef, Puppet, Ansible, Salt, and Cloudformation) Experience in designing HA, DR, Backup and ...

Research Chef information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$45.4K

$82.7K

$131.3K

How much do research chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for research chef in Rochester, NY is $82,714.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $116,000.00 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.

How to become a certified research chef?

Research chefs typically do not require formal certification but benefit from culinary degrees, experience in food science, and knowledge of food safety standards. Some may pursue certifications such as ServSafe or specialized food science credentials to enhance their expertise and credibility in the field.

What is a R&D chef?

An R&D chef, or research and development chef, is responsible for creating and testing new food products, recipes, and formulations for a company. They often work in test kitchens, collaborate with product development teams, and use culinary skills and food science knowledge to innovate and improve offerings.

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 do research chefs do?

Research chefs develop and test new food products, recipes, and flavor combinations for food companies or restaurants. They analyze ingredients, conduct sensory evaluations, and use culinary skills to improve or create offerings, often working with food scientists and product development teams.

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 is the highest paid chef job?

The highest paid chef roles are executive chefs, head chefs, or culinary directors in high-end restaurants, hotels, or corporate food services, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. Specialized roles such as consulting chefs or culinary entrepreneurs can also earn higher incomes depending on experience and reputation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Chef jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Research Chef jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Chef jobs in Rochester, NY? For Research Chef jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Chef jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Research Chef jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Research Chef jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Research Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Chef job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 42% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,714 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Part Time Prep/Line Cook

DEER RUN ENTERPRISES INC

Geneseo, NY

$17 - $19/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Employee discounts
  • Opportunity for advancement

Job Summary
We are seeking a Part time Prep/Line Cook to join our team at Deer Run Winery. In this position, you will be responsible for food preparation, line execution, and maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen environment during service. Deer Run Winery is open from Thursday- Monday.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Help 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
  • Maintain appropriate levels of inventory and restock when necessary
  • Follow all food safety regulations
  • Participate in daily kitchen opening and closing procedures
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the head chef or management
Qualifications:
  • Previous experience in a similar role is preferred
  • Knowledge of culinary techniques and recipes
  • Ability to remain calm and thrive under pressure
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, including standing for long periods and lifting up to 40 pounds