Culinary R&D Coordinator

Culinary Research & Development CoordinatorAs the Culinary Research & Development Coordinator, you support the day-to-day execution of Noodles & Company's Culinary R&D initiatives. Working closely with the Culinary R&D Manager, you play a hands-on role in test kitchen operations, culinary testing, and cross-functional project support.You contribute to the development, testing, and documentation of menu items and procedures, partnering with Supply Management, QA, Training, Project Management, and other teams to ensure accuracy, consistency, and readiness throughout the R&D process. This role is well suited for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and enjoys translating culinary ideas into operational reality.At Noodles & Company, we believe great food can spark meaningful connections. That's why we're on a mission to reintroduce the world to noodlesnot just as a meal, but as an experience worth craving. As we evolve our brand to meet the modern guest, we're focused on creating moments that surprise, delight, and shift perceptions of what fast-casual can be.Every bowl we serve is rooted in global flavors, fresh ingredients, and intentional hospitality that makes guests feel seen and valued. Our valuesWe Care, We Show Pride, We Are Passionate, and We Love Lifeguide how we show up for our guests, our team members, and each other.Careers at Noodles are served with a side of:Pay range: $21.15 to $26.68 per hourEligible for annual performance bonus up to 5%Flexible paid time offMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) and stock purchase discountsPaid maternity and paternity leaves, adoption, and surrogacy benefitsNoodles Resource Groups inclusive communities that foster belonging, build connections, and support your personal and professional growthScholarship opportunities through Noodles FoundationMonthly technology stipendDiscounts through our gift card programYour day in the life:Support culinary R&D projects, including supply chain savings initiatives, RFPs, and contingency efforts that result in culinary matching or reformulation projectsAssist with structured culinary cuttings, including planning, ingredient procurement, setup, and facilitationMaintain and update the nutritional database to support ongoing menu updates, market tests, and limited-time offersSupport commercialization efforts, including scale-ups, product reviews, and test execution under established guidanceManage day-to-day test kitchen operations, including inventory tracking, product rotation, and cleaning schedulesConduct cook studies and evaluations for new and existing equipment following defined testing protocolsMaintain departmental trackers, documentation, and project records to ensure accuracy and organizationPartner effectively with external vendors and suppliers as neededAssist with public relations initiatives and on-air cooking demonstrations when requiredWhat you bring to the team:Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Nutrition, Hospitality, or a related field preferred, or equivalent hands-on experience in restaurant culinary or test kitchen environments23 years of experience in restaurant kitchens, culinary R&D, or test kitchen settings, ideally within a multi-unit or corporate-supported environmentStrong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced settingHigh attention to detail and the ability to work accurately within structured testing, documentation, and tracking processesAdaptability and comfort navigating shifting priorities and evolving project needsEffective communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional partners and external vendorsWorking knowledge of Microsoft Office and Mac Pages, with the ability to learn and support inventory or R&D systems such as ERSFamiliarity with ESHA Genesis nutritional software preferredWillingness to support limited travel related to commercialization, testing, or training initiativesThis role requires regular preparation, handling, and sensory evaluation of food products, including exposure to common food allergens in a test kitchen environment. The individual must be able to safely perform these essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.This role is based in our Restaurant Support Center in Broomfield, Colorado and requires regular on-site work, including time in our test kitchen, with occasional travel to test restaurants or suppliers as needed. Candidates should expect to be on-site most of the week. We're seeking candidates who either reside locally or are open to relocating.Noodles is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Military Friendly workplace. We encourage Veterans and their spouses to apply. We are proud to be recognized on Forbes' Best Employers for Diversity and Forbes' Best Employers for Women lists and are committed to creating a culture of belonging where Noodlers can bring their full self to work.