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Test Kitchen Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Culinary Support - Test kitchen set up/break down, organization of inventory in test kitchen, support the executive kitchen manager, etc. Safety, security, and sanitation - Maintains and manages the ...

Customer-Service: Kitchen managers might have to interact with customers. Being friendly and ... test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this provision ...

Customer-Service: Kitchen managers might have to interact with customers. Being friendly and ... test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this provision ...

Customer-Service: Kitchen managers might have to interact with customers. Being friendly and ... test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this provision ...

Customer-Service: Kitchen managers might have to interact with customers. Being friendly and ... test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this provision ...

Customer-Service: Kitchen managers might have to interact with customers. Being friendly and ... test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this provision ...

Customer-Service: Kitchen managers might have to interact with customers. Being friendly and ... test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this provision ...

Customer-Service: Kitchen managers might have to interact with customers. Being friendly and ... test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this provision ...

Customer-Service: Kitchen managers might have to interact with customers. Being friendly and ... test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this provision ...

Showing results 21-40

Test Kitchen Manager information

See salary details

$26.5K

$109.1K

$170.5K

How much do test kitchen manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for test kitchen manager in the United States is $109,109.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,000.00 and $130,000.00 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.
More about Test Kitchen Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Test Kitchen Manager jobs? Cities with the most Test Kitchen Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Test Kitchen jobs? The most popular types of Test Kitchen jobs are:
What states have the most Test Kitchen Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Test Kitchen Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Test Kitchen Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $109,109 per year, or $52.5 per hour.
Culinary Assistant

Culinary Assistant

Nole

Metairie, LA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

The ACI Culinary Assistant is primarily responsible for assisting all R&D functions, including the organization & maintenance of the corporate test kitchen, product transportation, and assisting all R&D writing and Research and Development functions, including showings & tastings.
Responsibilities include:
Culinary Support - Test kitchen set up/break down, organization of inventory in test kitchen, support the executive kitchen manager, etc.
Safety, security, and sanitation - Maintains and manages the kitchen's organization, cleanliness, and equipment/smallware.
Effective business management - Partners with Peer Managers in increasing sales and maintaining cost controls regarding food, beverage, supplies, and labor goals.
External guest satisfaction - Responsible for resolving concerns of food quality effectively and efficiently.
Internal guest development and satisfaction - Promotes a culture of performance accountability and recognition through open communication discussions regarding expectations, performance evaluations, and ongoing mentoring/coaching.
Requirements
Qualifications:
- 2+ years of Restaurant Management experience in a full-service restaurant setting.
- Systems-oriented with experience in a high-volume scratch and/or spec recipe kitchen.
- Strong to moderate "People Management" and communication skills
- Ability to work with peer Managers on acting plans to improve financial controls. (food costs, labor costs, and controllable expenses)
- Sanitation certification
- Good technical writing, documentation, and recording skills