Sous Chef – Culinary R&D Technician

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The Fresh Factory

Sous Chef – Culinary R&D Technician

Carol Stream, IL
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    The Sous Chef – Culinary R &D will play a key role in supporting our Research & Development (R&D) team by preparing and developing food samples, assisting in recipe testing, and maintaining kitchen organization. This position is essential in ensuring high-quality product development and maintaining consistency in culinary innovation. The Sous Chef – Culinary R &D will collaborate closely with food scientists, logistics, and the production team to create, refine, and test food products in a fast-paced environment.

    Location: On-site in Downers Grove, IL

    Pay: $19-27/hr

    Schedule: 1st Shift, Monday-Friday

    Benefits:

    We offer a comprehensive benefits package , including:

    • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
    • Voluntary STD, LTD, and Life Insurance
    • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
    • Holiday pay
    • A culture of trust, innovation, and growth opportunities

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Prepare and develop food samples to support R&D initiatives and recipe testing.
    • Follow established culinary and food science protocols to ensure accuracy and consistency in product development.
    • Assist in new product testing and refinement , adjusting ingredients and techniques as needed.
    • Maintain kitchen organization, inventory, and ingredient tracking to support efficient operations.
    • Conduct quality control checks on samples, measuring attributes such as taste, texture, and appearance.
    • Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards at all times.
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams , including R&D, production, and quality assurance, to bring new food concepts to market.
    • Accurately measure and record data and maintain sample logs to ensure traceability and quality standards. Measure pH, brix and other basic testing on product samples.
    • Perform basic lab maintenance tasks, including cleaning equipment and work areas, managing supplies, and ensuring proper disposal of waste materials.
    • Manage raw materials inventory, sample inventory and supplies to create a well-organized lab.
    • Record detailed notes on recipe development and sample outcomes for continuous improvement.
    • Manage ingredient stock levels and coordinate orders for necessary supplies.
    • Assist in scaling up recipes from lab to production by working with manufacturing teams.
    • Ship samples outbound to key stakeholders as needed.

    Qualifications:

    • 2+ years of culinary experience , preferably in a food manufacturing, product development, or test kitchen setting.
    • Culinary degree or relevant certification preferred but not required.
    • Quality in manufacturing experienced preferred but required
    • Passion for recipe development, food innovation, and testing new flavors and ingredients.
    • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow precise recipes, measurements, and testing protocols.
    • Experience working in a fast-paced kitchen or food production environment.
    • Basic understanding of food science principles (pH, texture, ingredient functionality)
    • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
    • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team setting.
    • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs , stand for extended periods, and work in a hands-on environment.

    Commitment to Inclusion:

    We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate in hiring or employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity , or any other legally protected status.

    This job description is subject to adjustments based on business needs.