R&D Chef – Innovative Culinary Development

Location: San Diego, CA

Salary: Up to $150,000 base + benefits

We are seeking a visionary R&D Chef to lead menu development and innovation for a forward-thinking hospitality group known for pushing culinary boundaries. This role requires a chef with a deep passion for experimentation, an understanding of global food trends, and the ability to bring bold, creative concepts to life.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive research and development of new menu items, concepts, and techniques.
• Collaborate with executive leadership, culinary teams, and beverage directors to create unique, high-impact dishes.
• Experiment with ingredients, cooking methods, and presentation to maintain a cutting-edge dining experience.
• Ensure all menu innovations align with brand identity, quality standards, and cost parameters.
• Conduct market research on food trends, sustainability, and ingredient sourcing.
• Develop and test recipes in a controlled kitchen environment before rollout.
• Train and mentor kitchen teams on execution and consistency of new menu items.
• Work closely with vendors and purveyors to source premium ingredients and develop partnerships.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• 5+ years of experience in R&D, test kitchens, or high-profile chef-driven restaurants.
• Strong culinary background with expertise in technique, ingredient sourcing, and menu development.
• Passion for pushing creative boundaries in food and beverage.
• Ability to translate innovative ideas into scalable, operationally efficient menu items.
• Deep knowledge of global flavors, fermentation, and modern cooking techniques.
• Strong leadership, training, and communication skills.
• Experience working with cost analysis, food waste management, and sustainability initiatives.
• Flexible schedule and ability to travel for research and development.

Benefits & Perks:

• Competitive base salary (up to $120,000)
• Full benefits package, including health insurance
• Career growth opportunities within a leading hospitality group

This is an exciting opportunity for a chef who thrives on creativity and wants to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of an influential hospitality brand. If you are a culinary innovator with a passion for research and development, we encourage you to apply.