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Research Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef, Production (Contract)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Attend weekly meetings with R&D chefs in order to give feedback on recipes or ingredient specifications * Review meal ratings weekly and assess areas for performance improvement Documentation and ...

The R&D Sushi Chef leads the development and execution of innovative sushi offerings in collaboration with the Executive R&D Chef. This role is responsible for creating new sushi rolls and seasonal ...

The R&D Sushi Chef leads the development and execution of innovative sushi offerings in collaboration with the Executive R&D Chef. This role is responsible for creating new sushi rolls and seasonal ...

Executive Chef, Production (Contract)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Attend weekly meetings with R&D chefs in order to give feedback on recipes or ingredient specifications * Review meal ratings weekly and assess areas for performance improvement Documentation and ...

Summary The R&D Chef supports the development and commercialization of innovative food products by combining culinary expertise with manufacturing and customer insights. This role partners closely ...

Summary The R&D Chef supports the development and commercialization of innovative food products by combining culinary expertise with manufacturing and customer insights. This role partners closely ...

The Chef's Assistant will assist the R&D Chef and R&D Staff in the prepping and executing (cooking) of various tests and tastings, and will assist with all other food preparation in the R&D Kitchen ...

R&D Chef's Assistant

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

The Chef's Assistant will assist the R&D Chef and R&D Staff in the prepping and executing (cooking) of various tests and tastings, and will assist with all other food preparation in the R&D Kitchen ...

R&D Chef's Assistant

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

The Chef's Assistant will assist the R&D Chef and R&D Staff in the prepping and executing (cooking) of various tests and tastings, and will assist with all other food preparation in the R&D Kitchen ...

MA

$76K - $105K/yr

Popular Hotel Group looking to hire an Executive Chef to oversee multiple F*B operations in Cape ... Experience with menu creation, concept and R&D * Strong operational knowledge of inventory, costing ...

Kitchen Chef

Carson, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Please do your research on the My Father's Barbeque and Chef Shalamar before applying. This is a job with a purpose: to serve great food, give great service and service our community. Kitchen Chef ...

Certified Research Chef or Certified Culinary Scientist preferred * Product Development experience for Food Manufacturing required; 3 years minimum * Culinary experience in a restaurant kitchen or ...

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Research Chef information

See salary details

$46K

$83.8K

$133K

How much do research chef jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for research chef in the United States is $83,794.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $117,500.00 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 cities are hiring for Research Chef jobs? Cities with the most Research Chef job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Chef jobs? The most popular types of Research Chef jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Research Chef jobs? The top employers for Research Chef jobs are:
What states have the most Research Chef jobs? States with the most job openings for Research Chef jobs include:
Infographic showing various Research Chef job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 35% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,794 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Adjunct - Culinary and Food Science (CFS)

This posting is part of an ongoing recruitment effort. Applications are accepted year-round, and qualified candidates will be contacted as positions become available.

Overview:

The Midwest Culinary Institute (MCI) at Cincinnati State invites candidates that are fully committed to the mission and values of Cincinnati State Technical and Community College to apply for the position of Adjunct Culinary and Food Science (CFS). Responsibilities will include instructing students and providing relevant class/lab experiences. Instruction may take place in a classroom or via distance or online learning web portals.

Adjunct Faculty Essential Responsibilities:

  • Adequately prepare all course materials and lessons. Note preparation time will vary based on instructor experience in teaching that course.
  • Deliver learning-centered instruction by establishing a classroom environment conducive to learning.
  • Provide students with clear course expectations, evaluations and timelines through an approved, standardized syllabus.
  • Ensure that students are complying with dress code and lab policies as well as completing all course assignments and course preparation.
  • Administer and grade quizzes and exams to assess achievement.
  • Ensure that lab space is left in a clean, organized fashion according to lab policies.
  • Ensure course and program learning outcomes are delivered as defined by the syllabus.
  • Maintain an electronic record of each student's progress and have it accessible to the students.
  • Complete grade books, final grade sheets, learning assessments and final exam assessments on a timely basis.
  • Complete as directed all end-of-term responsibilities, including submission of final grades, copies of exams, attendance records, and all other designated materials to the Academic Office.
  • Consult with the program chair, CFS faculty, and/or other appropriate College personnel on questions or issues involving course curricula, instructional strategies, and College policies and procedures.
  • Respond to requests (e.g., from students, academic area chairs, department heads, committee chairs, Records Office) in a timely and thorough manner.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must meet one of the following qualifications:
    • Master's degree in applicable disciplines such as Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, and Agricultural Science.
    • An equivalent combination of education and mentored experience that is at least equal to the above.
  • Minimum of five (5) years of work experience in the food industry.
  • In-depth industry experience of the subject area to be taught with demonstrated competencies and achievements that are relevant to the subject matter.
  • Ability to apply principles of Food Science, Culinology® and Culinary Arts.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Highly developed interpersonal skills and a strong desire to teach.
  • Professional conduct that includes integrity, dependability and accountability, and the ability to work collaboratively.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • PhD degree in applicable disciplines such as Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, and Agricultural Science.
  • Certification as a Certified Research Chef (CRC®) or Certified Culinary Scientist (CCS®) by the Research Chefs Association (RCA), or Certified Food Scientist (CFS) by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT).
  • Current or previous leadership roles in related professional associations such as the Research Chefs Association (RCA), Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), Ohio Valley Institute of Food Technologists (OVIFT), or other food and flavor organizations.
  • Previous higher education teaching experience in a similar culinary and food science program.
  • Previous experience in coaching student competition teams in a similar culinary and food science program.
  • Previous experience in course development in in a similar culinary and food science program.
  • Five (5) years work experience in the subject matter of instruction.
  • Experience with Blackboard or other learning management systems.

Desired Competencies:

  • Serves as a role model for the students.
  • Full commitment to the mission and values of Cincinnati State Technical and Community College.
  • Utilizes constructive feedback as an opportunity for growth and handles conflict and criticism effectively.
  • Ability to create a positive learning environment that is respectful and promotes the interests of students first, while setting appropriate expectations for student growth and success.
  • Ability to develop a professional rapport with diverse school/campus constituents.
  • Ability to fulfill duties without continued direct supervision.
  • Ability to learn from students' participation, demonstrates fair and consistent behavior in all matters, and shows compassion without being ineffectual.
  • Desire to contribute and assist with outreach initiatives to advance the Culinary and Food Science program.
  • Sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse backgrounds of community college students.
  • Experience working with individuals from diverse academic backgrounds and life experiences.

Details:

Position Available: Varies by semester

Compensation: $700.00 per lecture hour

Contractual Affiliation: N/A

Exempt Classification: Non-Exempt

Status: Part-time

Candidate notification: Please note that due to the high volume of candidates applying for adjunct positions, we will only follow up with candidates who are being considered for an interview. Please be assured that we will keep your resume on file.

STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT
  1. The institution declares that it will educate students by means of free, open, and rigorous intellectual inquiry to seek the truth.
  2. The institution declares that its duty is to equip students with the opportunity to develop the intellectual skills they need to reach their own, informed conclusions.
  3. The institution declares its commitment to not requiring, favoring, disfavoring, or prohibiting speech or lawful assembly.
  4. The institution declares it is committed to create a community dedicated to an ethic of civil and free inquiry, which respects the autonomy of each member, supports individual capacities for growth, and tolerates the differences in opinion that naturally occur in a public higher education community.
  5. The institution declares that its duty is to treat all faculty, staff, and students as individuals, to hold them to equal standards, and to provide them equality of opportunity, with regard to those individuals' race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.