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Test Kitchen Manager Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Columbia Yacht Club

Kitchen Manager

Chicago, IL

$55K - $63K/yr

Kitchen Manager Columbia Yacht Club - Chicago, IL Position Overview The Kitchen Manager at Columbia ... Conduct daily line checks and taste tests to maintain consistency across lunch, dinner, and banquet ...

Robert Half

Administrative Assistant

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

The ideal candidate brings strong communication skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage ... Maintain test kitchen preparedness by receiving shipments, organizing products, and keeping ...

Air Culinaire Worldwide

Cook

Park Ridge, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

All other duties as assigned by the Kitchen Manager / Executive Chef REQUIREMENTS High school ... Drug Test * E-Verify *We are a promote-from-within company and top performers can achieve career ...

Boar's Head Brand

Culinary Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$147K/yr

Maintain strategic accountability for all product development and research, including management and scheduling of test kitchen facilities in collaboration with PF Operations Managers. * Develop in ...

New

Simple Mills

R&D/QA Lab Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

... Managers * Prepare, test, and evaluate food and ingredient samples using established methods and ... Prior experience in the CPG (consumer packaged goods) food industry or culinary/kitchen ...

Simple Mills

R&D/QA Lab Technician

Chicago, IL

$19.50 - $26/hr

... Managers * Prepare, test, and evaluate food and ingredient samples using established methods and ... Prior experience in the CPG (consumer packaged goods) food industry or culinary/kitchen ...

Simple Mills

R&D/QA Lab Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

... Managers * Prepare, test, and evaluate food and ingredient samples using established methods and ... Prior experience in the CPG (consumer packaged goods) food industry or culinary/kitchen ...

Advanced Parts and Service

Be Seen First

Commercial Kitchen Equipment Service Technician

Broadview, IL · On-site

$20 - $45/hr

Test equipment functionality post-repair or maintenance, calibrating systems to meet operational ... Inventory Management: Maintain an inventory of tools, parts, and supplies, ensuring availability ...

Khepri Kitchen

Lead Baker

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Employee discounts Lead Baker Khepri Kitchen | Mount Prospect, IL Full-Time | Scratch Kitchen ... Develop and test new baked goods, pastries, desserts, and specialty menu items * Execute daily prep ...

City Winery Chicago

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $101K/yr

Manage all kitchen staff, delegate responsibilities, set deadlines, and maintain accountability ... Keep up to date with culinary and market trends, test and update new product/ dish ideas and ...

City Winery International

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $101K/yr

Manage all kitchen staff, delegate responsibilities, set deadlines, and maintain accountability ... Keep up to date with culinary and market trends, test and update new product/ dish ideas and ...

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All JobsTest Kitchen JobsTest Kitchen Manager JobsTest Kitchen Manager Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Test Kitchen Manager information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$26.1K

$107.4K

$167.8K

How much do test kitchen manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for test kitchen manager in Park Ridge, IL is $107,364.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,500.00 and $127,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 job categories do people searching Test Kitchen Manager jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Test Kitchen Manager jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Test Kitchen Manager jobs? Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Test Kitchen Manager job openings:
Test Kitchen Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Kitchen Manager job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $107,364 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Kitchen Manager

Columbia Yacht Club

Chicago, IL

$55K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Description: Kitchen Manager

Columbia Yacht Club – Chicago, IL

Position Overview

The Kitchen Manager at Columbia Yacht Club (CYC) is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the "Abegweit" galley and supporting culinary facilities. This role demands a leader who can balance the unique logistical challenges of a high-volume floating clubhouse with the premium service standards expected by our membership. You will ensure consistent food quality, manage kitchen staff, and maintain rigorous safety and sanitation standards while fostering a collaborative, high-energy environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Culinary & Quality Excellence

  • Oversee the preparation and execution of all menu items, ensuring they meet CYC standards for taste, presentation, and temperature.

  • Conduct daily line checks and taste tests to maintain consistency across lunch, dinner, and banquet services.

  • Collaborate with the Executive Chef on seasonal menu updates and daily specials that reflect member preferences.

2. Operational Management

  • Manage daily kitchen workflows, including prep lists, station assignments, and inventory rotation.

  • Oversee ordering and receiving of food and supplies, ensuring quality control and cost-effective purchasing.

  • Maintain a highly organized "ship-shape" kitchen, maximizing efficiency within the unique layout of the club.

3. Team Leadership

  • Schedule, train, and supervise back-of-house staff, including line cooks, prep cooks, and dishwashers.

  • Foster a professional culture rooted in mutual respect, accountability, and continuous improvement.

  • Ensure all team members adhere to club policies and uniform standards.

4. Safety & Sanitation

  • Enforce strict adherence to Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) regulations and food safety protocols.

  • Maintain a pristine kitchen environment, overseeing regular deep-cleaning schedules for equipment and storage areas.

Qualifications & Skills

  • Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in kitchen management or a Lead Line Cook role, preferably within a private club, high-end hotel, or high-volume restaurant.

  • Certifications: Must hold a valid City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Certificate.

  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in kitchen math (inventory, food costing) and familiarity with POS systems and inventory management software.

  • Leadership: Strong communication skills and the ability to remain calm and decisive during high-pressure service windows.

  • Physical Requirements: Ability to navigate the unique stairs and levels of a ship, stand for long periods, and lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Prepare menu items according to prescribed recipes and/or special requests
  • Available to work a variety of hours, days and shifts, including weekends
  • Safely and effectively use and operate all necessary tools and equipment, including knives
  • Ability to effectively communicate in order to perform and follow job requirements in written and spoken directions
  • Ability to multitask calmly and effectively in a busy, stressful environment
  • Work in a confined, crowded space of variable noise and temperature levels
  • Able to move and lift up to 10 pounds, frequently move and/or lift up to 25 pounds, and occasionally move and/or lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to stand and walk for an entire shift and move safely through all areas of the restaurant, which may include stairs, uneven or slick surfaces

Why Work at Columbia Yacht Club?

  • The Setting: Work on one of the most iconic vessels on the Chicago lakefront with unparalleled views of the skyline.

  • The Community: Engage with a dedicated membership and a professional team committed to being the "gem of the lake."

  • Growth: Opportunities for professional development within a prestigious private club environment.

More detail about Columbia Yacht Club, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/276769-Columbia-Yacht-Club