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Test Kitchen Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Lead, Arleta, Ca

CA ยท On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Kitchen Manager LOCATION: Arleta, CA CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt, Full-Time HOURLY RATE: $23.00 ... All positions require candidates to successfully pass a background check, LIVE scan and TB Test Do ...

HOT DELI KITCHEN 2ND

Merced, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Manage and coach kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of performance and professionalism ... Conduct tastings and smell tests to ensure food quality. * Ensure quality standards by following ...

Manage and coach kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of performance and professionalism ... Conduct tastings and smell tests to ensure food quality. * Ensure quality standards by following ...

Manage and coach kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of performance and professionalism ... Conduct tastings and smell tests to ensure food quality. * Ensure quality standards by following ...

Kitchen 1

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site

$19.25/hr

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

Kitchen 1

Encino, CA ยท On-site

$19.25/hr

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

Kitchen 1

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$19.25/hr

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

Kitchen 1

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site

$19.25/hr

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

$19.25/hr

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

Kitchen 1

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$19.25/hr

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

Kitchen 1

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$19.25/hr

Wage Starting at $19.25/hour Department Production Reports to Kitchen Supervisor Terms of ... Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements * Must be ...

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Test Kitchen Manager information

See California salary details

$26.2K

$107.7K

$168.3K

How much do test kitchen manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for test kitchen manager in California is $107,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,800.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a test kitchen chef make?

A test kitchen chef's salary varies depending on experience, location, and employer, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 annually. Senior or specialized chefs with culinary certifications may earn higher wages, especially in larger companies or media organizations with dedicated test kitchens.

What happened to the guy that used to be on America's test kitchen?

The Test Kitchen Manager role at America's Test Kitchen is a key position responsible for overseeing recipe testing and quality control. If referring to a former host or staff member, they may have left the show or company for personal reasons or to pursue other opportunities, but specific details vary and are not always publicly disclosed.

What is a Test Kitchen Manager?

A Test Kitchen Manager oversees the operations of a test kitchen, which is a facility used to develop, test, and refine recipes and food products before they are released to the public or used commercially. They manage recipe testing, coordinate kitchen staff, maintain equipment, and ensure the highest standards of food safety and quality. Test Kitchen Managers often work for food companies, magazines, or culinary institutions, playing a key role in food innovation and quality assurance.

What is the difference between Test Kitchen Manager vs Test Kitchen Assistant?

AspectTest Kitchen ManagerTest Kitchen Assistant
CredentialsRelevant culinary certifications, management experienceBasic culinary knowledge, entry-level experience
Work EnvironmentLeads test kitchen operations, oversees staffSupports test kitchen activities, assists chefs
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, culinary testing labsFood product companies, culinary testing teams
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for leadership roles in culinary testingCompared for entry-level support roles

The Test Kitchen Manager oversees the entire culinary testing process, manages staff, and ensures quality standards. The Test Kitchen Assistant supports the manager by assisting with food preparation, testing, and administrative tasks. The manager role requires more experience and credentials, while the assistant role is more entry-level and supportive.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Test Kitchen Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Test Kitchen Manager, you need expertise in culinary techniques, recipe development, food safety standards, and typically a culinary degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, recipe management software, and HACCP certification are commonly required. Strong organizational skills, creativity, and effective team leadership are critical soft skills for managing kitchen operations and fostering innovation. These skills ensure the efficient development of high-quality food products, adherence to safety standards, and successful collaboration within culinary teams.

How do I get a job in a test kitchen?

To get a job as a test kitchen manager, candidates typically need experience in culinary arts, food development, or product testing, along with strong organizational and leadership skills. Relevant education may include culinary school or food science certifications, and familiarity with kitchen equipment and food safety standards is important. Applying to companies with dedicated test kitchens and demonstrating creativity, attention to detail, and project management abilities can improve chances of securing such a role.

What are some common challenges faced by Test Kitchen Managers and how can they be addressed?

Test Kitchen Managers often face challenges such as coordinating diverse teams, managing tight deadlines for recipe development, and ensuring food safety compliance. Balancing creativity with strict budget and time constraints requires strong organizational skills and clear communication. Building strong relationships with chefs, food scientists, and marketing teams helps streamline the workflow and troubleshoot issues more efficiently. Staying updated on industry trends and continuously refining processes can also help mitigate these challenges and contribute to a successful test kitchen environment.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

For a Test Kitchen Manager, earning $2,000 a day typically requires senior-level experience, specialized skills in culinary management, and working in high-end or corporate food service environments. Such compensation is often associated with executive roles, consulting, or project-based work in the food industry. Most standard managerial positions do not reach this daily rate without additional responsibilities or bonuses.
What are the most commonly searched types of Test Kitchen jobs in California? The most popular types of Test Kitchen jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Test Kitchen Manager jobs in California? For Test Kitchen Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Test Kitchen Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Test Kitchen Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Test Kitchen Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Test Kitchen Manager job openings:
Kitchen Lead, Arleta, Ca

Kitchen Lead, Arleta, Ca

National Health Foundation

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

POSITION TITLE: Kitchen Lead

REPORTS TO: Kitchen Manager

LOCATION: Arleta, CA

CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt, Full-Time

HOURLY RATE: $23.00 - $24.00

  • All positions require candidates to successfully pass a background check, LIVE scan and TB Test

Do YOU meet the REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS for this position? If so, this is the PERFECT POSITION for you! APPLY NOW!

Kitchen Lead

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Kitchen Lead to join our team that would serve as a hands-on supervisor, bridging the gaps between line cooks and management along with serving older adults in a residential setting. The ideal candidate will have experience cooking for large groups and a background in healthcare, homeless services, or working with individuals with behavioral challenges. This role is integral to ensure operational efficiency, consistency in food quality, compliance with safety standards and the well-being of our residents by preparing meals that meet dietary and nutritional needs.

Responsibilities and Initiatives

To help NHF provide nutritional meals, you will:

  • Assist Kitchen Manager with daily operations, including opening/closing procedures, staff scheduling, prep schedules and station organization.
  • Assist with planning menus, ensuring they are nutritious, cost-effective, and cater to special dietary requirements.
  • Assist and manage prepared food items, cook meals while working for a large number of guests.
  • Maintaining quality and consistency by ensuring all food items are prepared to specification, properly cooked and adhere to recipe standards.
  • Assist Kitchen Manager with staff supervision and training with new hires on equipment and safety protocols.
  • Maintain a stringent compliance with food safety regulations, sanitation standards and HACCP procedures in both Kitchen and Dining Hall.
  • Manage inventory, food cost, ordering and stocking food supplies while minimizing food waste.
  • Assist Kitchen Manager in maintaining the organization, temperature control and cleanliness of the walk-in cooler and freezer areas.
  • Work collaboratively with other staff members to create a supportive and positive dining experience for guests.
  • Assist Kitchen Manager in guiding, educating and collaborating with community partners and internship programs.
  • Always follow NHF policies and procedures.

Requirements

  • Must have a minimum of 2-3 years of proven work experience in a commercial kitchen, ideally with leadership experience.
  • Experience cooking for large groups or high-volume settings.
  • Understanding dietary restrictions, food safety protocols, and nutritional needs.
  • Ability to work effectively with individuals experiencing behavioral challenges or other unique needs.
  • Strong approach to cleanliness and directives.
  • Strong organizational, leadership, and time-management skills.
  • Flexibility to occasionally work an additional day as required
  • SERV Safe Certification or equivalent food safety training, preferred.
  • Bilingual Spanish preferred; however, not required.

Physical Requirements

The duties described will require frequent standing and walking for long periods of time. The employee will frequently bend/stoop, squat, reach above the shoulders, twist, and turn, kneel, and push/pull. The employee will frequently be required to lift/pull/push/move up to 50 pounds. The employee must have good dexterity, especially when handling hot pans, sharp utensils and tools. Must utilize conversational speech for effective verbal communication. Noise level is high in some guest care areas. Must be able to hear equipment alarms, overhead pages, and direct verbal communication. Employees must be able to withstand extremely hot or cold environments. Ability to safely navigate all areas pertaining to job role.

Benefits

PROGRAMS

National Health Foundation is addressing the social determinants of health using several research-proven strategies. We are targeting Food Access, with an emphasis on increasing the availability of health and fresh foods in under-resourced communities, Housing, with a focus on providing shelter and care for individuals who have been released from the hospital, the Built Environment, prioritizing the removal of the barriers to health in the Historic South Los Angeles community, and Education, with a focus on risk prevention and support for pregnant and parenting teens to complete their education. For further details on the programs, please visit our site at: http://nationalhealthfoundation.org.