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Test Kitchen Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Inventory Management: Help monitor kitchen inventory, including restocking supplies, tracking ... Quality Control: Participate in quality control measures by conducting regular taste tests and ...

... tests and productization reviews - be the voice in the room asking "can a real kitchen team ... You will receive support and guidance from experienced colleagues and managers, helping you to ...

... tests and productization reviews - be the voice in the room asking "can a real kitchen team ... You will receive support and guidance from experienced colleagues and managers, helping you to ...

Manage ingredient and consumables inventory of the test kitchen by tracking current supply, submitting orders, and restocking supplies * Discard expired, unused ingredients and consumables * Maintain ...

... kitchen cleanliness and follow strict food safety standards * Collaborate with the team to test new ... management and prep list planning * Work evening/night shifts (4 PM - 12 AM) and support peak ...

Cook

Upper Lake, CA ยท On-site

$16.90 - $20/hr

Prepares food according to recipes provided or selected by the Kitchen Manager from the menu ... Conditions of employment with the Running Creek Casino include passing a pre-employment drug test ...

Cook

Upper Lake, CA ยท On-site

$16.90 - $20/hr

Prepares food according to recipes provided or selected by the Kitchen Manager from the menu ... Conditions of employment with the Running Creek Casino include passing a pre-employment drug test ...

Line Cook

Brea, CA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Observes and tests food being cooked by tasting, smelling and piercing with cooking utensil to ... Must demonstrate ability to present and discuss menu item preparation with kitchen manager and Chef ...

Line Cook

Brea, CA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Observes and tests food being cooked by tasting, smelling and piercing with cooking utensil to ... Must demonstrate ability to present and discuss menu item preparation with kitchen manager and Chef ...

Dishwasher

Stockton, CA ยท On-site

$17 - $18/hr

The Dishwasher reports direct to the Kitchen Manager or Executive Chef. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS ... test, TB screen test and health screen. O'Connor Woods is an Equal Opportunity employer. All ...

Showing results 21-40

Test Kitchen Manager information

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.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Test Kitchen Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Kitchen 1

Calif Chicken Cafe

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$19.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Wage

Starting at $19.25/hour

Department

Production

Reports to

Kitchen Supervisor

Terms of Employment

Full Time or Part Time

Overall Responsibilities

Prepare California Chicken Cafe's famous scratch made recipes and ensure the restaurant's back kitchen & facilities are clean, neat, and organized.

Key Areas of Responsibilities

  • Maintain a positive and friendly work environment while adhering and applying the company's core values
  • Follow assigned production lists accurately and efficiently
  • Use manual or electronic appliances to prep and process food
  • Store and label foods according to Health Department regulations and company policy
  • Read, comprehend, and execute recipes
  • Maintain a clean, sanitized, and properly stocked restaurant
  • Make and package guest food orders
  • Strong communication regarding any issues with food quality, equipment, and work environment
  • Read and adhere to all company policies and procedures
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Must attend and pass California Chicken Cafe Road to Success class within first month of hire
  • Previous restaurant experience preferred
  • Able to understand and speak basic English
  • Must enjoy and be able to succeed in a fast-paced work environment
  • Must pass Food Handlers course and test in compliance with CA state law requirements
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States

Physical Requirements

  • Perform duties that require standing, walking, reaching, bending, stooping, wiping, twisting, climbing, lifting/carrying (up to 25 lbs. individually), constant gripping/grasping, and moving throughout the restaurant for 4-10 hours per shift, up to 6 shifts per week

Work Conditions/Hours

  • Hours will vary in accordance with business necessity, including early morning, late evenings, weekends and/or holidays.
  • Exposure to cleaning chemicals, noise, steam, and smoke.
  • Works with hot, cold, and hazardous equipment typical of a restaurant kitchen

Benefits

  • Free meal during the working shift
  • 50% discount on takeout and catering
  • Competitive wages - Earn more when you learn more
  • Wage structure includes incremental pay increases atkey employment milestones
  • Leadership opportunities - We value promoting from within the team
  • Flexible schedule
  • Referral program
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance available for eligible employees
  • 401k with company match for eligible employees