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Test Kitchen Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef

Bar Harbor, ME · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

A hands-on, collaborative, and detail-oriented approach to kitchen leadership. * Must pass a pre-employment drug test and background check. * TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) is ...

Executive Chef

Bar Harbor, ME · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

A hands-on, collaborative, and detail-oriented approach to kitchen leadership. * Must pass a pre-employment drug test and background check. * TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) is ...

Line Cook

Bar Harbor, ME · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ... Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test. * Ability to complete a criminal background check.

Line Cook

Bangor, ME · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ... Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test. * Ability to complete a criminal background check.

Line Cook

Bangor, ME · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ... Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test. * Ability to complete a criminal background check.

Line Cook

Bar Harbor, ME · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ... Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test. * Ability to complete a criminal background check.

Cook

Oxford, ME · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Methods and procedures regarding food preservation and production, kitchen and dining area ... Follows standard recipes for food preparation, tests cooked foods to determine if properly cooked ...

Cook

Oxford, ME · On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

Follows standard recipes for food preparation, tests cooked foods to determine if properly cooked ... kitchen and dining area equipment and utensils in a safe and sanitary manner. · Receives food ...

Cook

Oxford, ME · On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

Follows standard recipes for food preparation, tests cooked foods to determine if properly cooked ... Possess a basic knowledge of kitchen operations and flow including the dishwasher, Demonstrate ...

Maintenance Mechanic

Gilead, ME · On-site

$18.70 - $25.50/hr

Repairs and services laundry and kitchen equipment in order to ensure safe and effective operation ... Ability to use electrical test equipment such as ohm and voltage meters. MINIMUMQUALIFICATIONS: Two ...

Cook

Oxford, ME · On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

Follows standard recipes for food preparation, tests cooked foods to determine if properly cooked ... kitchen and dining area equipment and utensils in a safe and sanitary manner. • Receives food ...

Showing results 41-53

Test Kitchen information

See Maine salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do test kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for test kitchen in Maine is $24.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $27.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a test kitchen?

A test kitchen is a professional space where chefs, food scientists, and culinary experts develop, test, and refine recipes, food products, and cooking techniques before they are released to the public. These kitchens are often used by food companies, restaurants, magazines, and appliance manufacturers to ensure quality, consistency, and safety. The work in a test kitchen involves experimenting with ingredients, adjusting cooking methods, and documenting results to create reliable and replicable recipes.

What are test kitchen jobs?

Test kitchen jobs focus on the preparation and use of ingredients, particularly when trying to create a new recipe for others to follow. These positions typically involve a significant amount of culinary expertise, and you may be asked to taste and cook a wide variety of new or unfamiliar foods. Many test kitchen jobs have additional requirements based on the needs of the company. For example, test kitchens for chain restaurants need to set up a supply chain for every ingredient, so there may be limits on the types of ingredients available. Other restaurants may work with less skilled chefs, so the recipes must be written to accommodate these skill levels. Balancing the creation of good food with operational limitations is one of the most important aspects of a test kitchen job.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a test kitchen, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a test kitchen often face challenges such as tight deadlines for recipe development, balancing creativity with strict nutritional or cost guidelines, and ensuring recipes are reproducible at scale. Collaboration with chefs, food scientists, and marketing teams is essential, as feedback loops can be fast-paced and iterative. Staying organized, maintaining clear documentation, and being open to constructive critique can help navigate these challenges and contribute to successful product launches.

What is the difference between Test Kitchen vs Test Engineer?

AspectTest KitchenTest Engineer
Required CredentialsExperience with testing tools, basic scripting, sometimes certifications in quality assuranceEngineering degree, certifications in testing or quality assurance, technical expertise
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, quality assurance labs, agile environmentsDevelopment teams, R&D departments, product testing labs
Industry UsageSoftware development, DevOps, continuous integrationSoftware, hardware, manufacturing industries
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for testing roles in software projectsCompared for technical testing and quality assurance roles

Test Kitchen is primarily a testing tool used by developers and QA teams to automate and manage testing environments, especially in software development. Test Engineer, on the other hand, is a professional role involving designing, executing, and managing testing processes. While both focus on testing, Test Kitchen is a tool, and Test Engineer is a job title requiring broader technical skills and certifications.

How do I get a job in a test kitchen?

To get a job in a test kitchen, candidates typically need relevant culinary or food science experience, strong tasting and evaluation skills, and familiarity with recipe development and testing. Many positions require a culinary degree or related certification, along with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and collaborate with a team.

What job categories do people searching Test Kitchen jobs in Maine look for?

The top searched job categories for Test Kitchen jobs in Maine are:

Infographic showing various Test Kitchen job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,013 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

$66K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Executive Chef

American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing immersive travel, exceptional service, and world-class cuisine while sharing America’s story on the finest ships in America. We offer over 50 itineraries across America's breathtaking waterways, including New England, the Southeast, the Mississippi River, the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, Great Lakes, and more.

We believe every meal should be a memorable event. That’s why we’re searching for talented, driven Executive Chefs to join our shipboard team for the 2026 cruising season. If you're ready to lead a high-performing galley crew, craft regionally inspired dishes, and provide exceptional guest service, all while traveling the country, this is the opportunity of a lifetime.

As Executive Chef, you’ll be responsible for delivering an unforgettable culinary experience—planning, preparing, and presenting elevated cuisine that reflects the flavors of each region we visit. You’ll mentor and lead your team with professionalism and passion, ensuring every dish meets our high standards of taste and presentation. We're seeking chefs who are not only technically skilled but also natural leaders who thrive in fast-paced, team-oriented environments. This is a dynamic, rewarding role for those who want to reach beyond the four walls of a traditional kitchen.

At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.

Responsibilities:

  • Leading all meal preparation for both guests and crew onboard.
  • Executing regionally inspired menus using fresh, local ingredients.
  • Coaching and managing a galley team of 6-10 in a hands-on environment.
  • Ensuring kitchen operations meet FDA, sanitation, and safety standards.
  • Overseeing food inventory, portion control, and waste reduction.
  • Adapting quickly to last-minute changes while maintaining a calm, can-do approach.
  • Providing an unforgettable dining experience for every guest.

Qualifications:

  • 6–8+ years’ experience in full-service resorts, hotels, country clubs, or banquet settings.
  • ServSafe Manager Certification strongly preferred.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and training abilities.
  • Proven knowledge of FDA food safety standards and kitchen best practices.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
  • A hands-on, collaborative, and detail-oriented approach to kitchen leadership.
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug test and background check.
  • TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) is required.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Work Schedule:

  • 7 Days per week while onboard the ship.
  • 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard the ship / 1 to 2 weeks off.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.

Essential Functions:

  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to speak, read, and understand basic cooking recipes and adhere to directions.
  • Ability to multi-task, take direction, and be a team player.
  • Ability to work with composure under pressure.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20” diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Jobs sites across the nation.
**This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.