Job Title

Title: Culinary ChefLocation: Bartlett, ILHire Type: Direct HireTarget Pay Rate: $70K - $90KPurpose of PositionAs a key member of our R&D Team with a food manufacturing company, the Culinary Chef will drive culinary development in Mexican and Asian cuisine. We are looking for an individual who combines a passion for food with a deep understanding of culinary trends, consumer preferences, and food science. This role demands creativity, technical expertise, and strong project management skills to develop and enhance food products from concept to launch while ensuring they meet the highest quality and safety standards.Key ResponsibilitiesCulinary Knowledge: Stay current and expand knowledge of kitchen operations, supplies, ingredients, and preparation techniques.Strategic Collaboration: Work closely with Marketing and Supply Chain teams to align product briefs with company goals.Product Development: Develop gold standard products for commercialization with vendor partners.Operational Excellence: Lead by example in operational excellence and quality assurance.Procedures Implementation: Plan and implement operational procedures, processes, and systems.Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate with marketing, production, and quality assurance teams to bring innovative food concepts to market.Market Research: Conduct market research, analyze consumer feedback, and stay updated on industry trends to keep products competitive.Product Lifecycle Management: Oversee the development of new food products from concept through launch, including improvements to existing products based on feedback and trends.Project Management: Manage product development projects, including setting timelines, budgets, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.Sensory Evaluations: Conduct sensory evaluations and product testing to ensure product quality.Consumer Analysis: Analyze consumer feedback and make data-driven decisions.Presentation: Present new product concepts to stakeholders and develop product specifications and documentation.Supplier Coordination: Work with suppliers to source new ingredients and materials.Compliance: Ensure all products comply with food safety regulations.Industry Engagement: Participate in trade shows and industry events to stay connected with key industry partners.Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks in the product development process.Continuous Improvement: Continuously seek ways to enhance product development processes.Additional Duties: Perform other related duties as assigned.Key Skills and ExperienceEducation: Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Culinary Arts, or a related field.Experience: Proven experience in product development with a focus on Mexican and Asian cuisine.Technical Skills: Proficient in knife skills, food preparation, recipe documentation, and food safety practices.Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify potential risks.Independence: Ability to work independently with discretion and confidentiality.Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Market Research: Experience in market research and consumer analysis.Passion for Food: A genuine passion for food and culinary innovation.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.