Culinary Field Chef
San Fernando, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
San Fernando, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Van Nuys, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Van Nuys, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Bakersfield, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Bakersfield, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Carson, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Carson, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Burbank, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Burbank, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Clovis, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Clovis, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Tulare, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Tulare, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Santa Clarita, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Santa Clarita, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Carson, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Carson, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Visalia, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Visalia, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Whittier, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Whittier, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Delano, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Delano, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Canyon, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Canyon, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Valencia, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Valencia, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Canoga Park, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Canoga Park, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Valencia, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
Valencia, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
San Fernando, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Culinary Field Chef
San Fernando, CA · On-site
Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred * Strong knowledge of food cost ... Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment * Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.
Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef information
See California salary details
$9.96 - $13.07
4% of jobs
$13.07 - $16.18
18% of jobs
$16.56 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.18 - $19.28
23% of jobs
The median wage is $20.55 / hr.
$19.28 - $22.39
12% of jobs
$22.39 - $25.49
11% of jobs
$28.31 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$25.49 - $28.60
8% of jobs
$28.60 - $31.70
7% of jobs
$31.70 - $34.81
5% of jobs
$34.81 - $37.91
4% of jobs
$37.91 - $41.02
5% of jobs
$41.02 - $44.13
2% of jobs
$9
$24
$44
How much do test kitchen recipe development chef jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for test kitchen recipe development chef in California is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $30.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does a Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef do?
A Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef is responsible for creating, testing, and refining recipes for food companies, magazines, or culinary brands. They experiment with ingredients and cooking techniques to develop recipes that are delicious, reliable, and easy to follow. Their work often includes collaborating with nutritionists, food stylists, and product developers to ensure recipes meet specific standards or dietary needs. The chef also documents the process, evaluates the final dish, and sometimes creates content for publication or marketing. This role requires culinary expertise, creativity, and attention to detail.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef?
To thrive as a Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef, you need expert culinary knowledge, recipe formulation skills, and experience in food science, often supported by a culinary arts degree or equivalent professional experience. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, recipe management software, and food safety certifications are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set exceptional candidates apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for creating innovative, reliable recipes that meet quality standards and can be consistently reproduced in various food settings.
What are some common challenges faced by a Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef when creating new recipes?
A Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef often faces the challenge of balancing creativity with consistency, ensuring that each recipe can be reliably reproduced by home cooks or professional kitchens. They must also consider dietary preferences, ingredient availability, and food cost while innovating. Collaboration with food scientists, editors, and other chefs is essential to refine recipes and maintain high standards. Additionally, receiving and incorporating feedback from taste testers and adapting to evolving food trends are integral parts of the role.
What is the difference between Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef vs Food Stylist?
| Aspect | Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef | Food Stylist |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Develops and tests new recipes for publication or broadcast | Prepares and styles food for photography or video |
| Work Environment | Test kitchens, culinary labs, media production settings | Photo shoots, video sets, studio environments |
| Credentials | Cooking experience, culinary training, recipe development skills | Food styling experience, photography knowledge, culinary background |
| Employer & Industry | Media companies, publishers, food brands | Advertising agencies, magazines, food brands |
While both roles involve working with food, the Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef focuses on creating and testing recipes, whereas the Food Stylist specializes in making food visually appealing for media. They often collaborate but serve different functions in the food media industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef jobs in California?
The most popular types of Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef jobs in California?
For Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef jobs in California look for?
The top searched job categories for Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef jobs?
Cities in California with the most Test Kitchen Recipe Development Chef job openings:
Vallarta Supermarkets rating
5.8
Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
75th of 123 rated grocery stores
Job description
Job Title: Culinary Field Chef
Classification: Exempt
Reports to: Director of Culinary
Job Summary:
The Culinary Field Chef supports day-to-day field culinary operations across all foodservice programs, ensuring consistent execution of Vallarta standards. This role provides hands-on operational support, coaching, and culinary expertise to Kitchen Managers and foodservice teams, while driving sales growth, product consistency, and an exceptional guest experience across all locations.
This position serves as a key field resource, supporting menu execution, recipe adherence, training, and operational improvements. The Culinary Field Chef collaborates closely with the Corporate Chef and cross-functional teams to support menu development, product rollouts, and company-wide culinary initiatives.
The role plays a critical part in new store openings, training execution, and ongoing operational support, with approximately 80% of time spent in field locations.
Key Responsibilities:
Operational Responsibilities:
Food Quality & Compliance:
Customer Service & Experience:
Team Leadership & Development:
Collaboration & Communication:
Safety:
Other Duties:
Required Education and Experience:
Working Conditions:
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is an exempt position. Work schedules may vary based on business needs, requiring flexibility in hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Approximately 80% of travel is required within the company's operating regions, including overnight stays. Mileage reimbursement is provided for approved business travel.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and employees may perform other duties as directed. All employees are expected to perform any reasonable task or request that is consistent with fulfilling company goals and objectives.
Classification: Exempt
Reports to: Director of Culinary
Job Summary:
The Culinary Field Chef supports day-to-day field culinary operations across all foodservice programs, ensuring consistent execution of Vallarta standards. This role provides hands-on operational support, coaching, and culinary expertise to Kitchen Managers and foodservice teams, while driving sales growth, product consistency, and an exceptional guest experience across all locations.
This position serves as a key field resource, supporting menu execution, recipe adherence, training, and operational improvements. The Culinary Field Chef collaborates closely with the Corporate Chef and cross-functional teams to support menu development, product rollouts, and company-wide culinary initiatives.
The role plays a critical part in new store openings, training execution, and ongoing operational support, with approximately 80% of time spent in field locations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide culinary and operational support across all foodservice concepts (Taqueria, Tortilleria, Restaurants, etc.)
- Coach and support Kitchen Managers on execution, standards, and guest service
- Ensure consistency in recipes, portioning, presentation, and flavor profiles
- Lead training and field execution of new menu items and programs
- Support product development and assist with implementation in the field
- Identify operational improvements to improve cost, efficiency, and quality
- Reinforce company standards, culture, and guest experience expectations
- Monitor performance and support business initiatives aligned with company goals
Operational Responsibilities:
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards
- Support food cost control, inventory, and operational reporting
- Maintain kitchen cleanliness, organization, and efficiency
- Assist with new store openings, remodels, and training execution
- Ensure consistency of recipes, procedures, and training materials
- Assist with staffing, onboarding, and team development as needed
Food Quality & Compliance:
- Enforce recipe adherence, portion control, and food quality standards
- Maintain HACCP compliance and food safety procedures
- Monitor temperature control, storage, and handling practices
- Conduct quality checks for taste, appearance, and consistency
Customer Service & Experience:
- Deliver and model Vallarta's Nuestra CASA service standards
- Support strong guest satisfaction and service execution
- Address customer feedback professionally and promptly
Team Leadership & Development:
- Provide coaching, training, and development to culinary teams
- Promote accountability, teamwork, and performance standards
- Partner with leadership on performance and operational needs
Collaboration & Communication:
- Support operations across Taqueria, Prepared Foods, Juice Bar, Grab & Go, and Catering as assigned.
- Maintain clear communication with leadership regarding production needs, shortages, or operational challenges.
- Ensure timely escalation of issues that may impact food safety, quality, or service.
Safety:
- Enforce all safety procedures and proper equipment use
- Report incidents and maintain safe working conditions
- Ensure adherence to company policies and standards
Other Duties:
- Support all current and future culinary programs
- Perform other duties as assigned
Required Education and Experience:
- Minimum 5+ years in culinary, restaurant, or multi-unit operations leadership
- Strong experience in foodservice operations and team development
- Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred
- Strong knowledge of food cost, labor, and inventory controls
- Ability to train and lead in a fast-paced environment
- High School Diploma required; Culinary Degree preferred
- Equivalent experience may be considered
Working Conditions:
- Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment
- Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.)
- Exposure to hot/cold environments and kitchen equipment
- Moderate to loud noise levels
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is an exempt position. Work schedules may vary based on business needs, requiring flexibility in hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Approximately 80% of travel is required within the company's operating regions, including overnight stays. Mileage reimbursement is provided for approved business travel.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and employees may perform other duties as directed. All employees are expected to perform any reasonable task or request that is consistent with fulfilling company goals and objectives.
What Vallarta Supermarkets employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Vallarta Supermarkets
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
For more than 35 years, Vallarta Supermarkets has been bringing families together over fresh and authentic food. When you enter Vallarta, you know right away that it’s about more than food shopping — it’s about celebrating. Celebrating the food, culture, colors, and vibrant energy of Mexico and Latin America. Vallarta offers a feast for ALL your senses. You can smell the sweet aromas from the bakery, hear the rhythms of the music playing, and different languages spoken all around you.
Industry
Supermarkets and grocery stores
Company size
5,001 - 10,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Los Angeles, CA, US
Year founded
1985