R&D Chef Assistant

R&D Chef Assistant The R&D Chef Assistant supports the Innovation team at Ready Foods by executing hands-on R&D activities that enable successful product development and commercialization. Working under the direction of the Food Innovation Manager and R&D Chef, the role is responsible for producing and documenting R&D samples, supporting sensory evaluations, assisting with scale-up trials, and coordinating with cross-functional partners such as FSQA, Operations, and Supply Chain. The position emphasizes strong culinary execution, attention to detail, food safety compliance, and disciplined follow-through, while contributing to continuous improvement and reinforcing Ready Foods' culture of quality, collaboration, and innovation. Key responsibilities include: Prepare and document R&D samples, recipes, and formulations Support sensory testing, pilot runs, and scale-up trials Assist with recipe development, optimization, and commercialization documentation Collaborate with FSQA, Operations, Supply Chain, and Sales Organize ingredients, samples, and R&D supplies Follow all food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements Contribute to a positive, disciplined, continuous-improvement culture Qualifications include: Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts or 3+ years of relevant culinary or food manufacturing experience Interest in culinary R&D or food manufacturing Strong knife skills and foundational culinary techniques Basic computer and documentation skills Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment Effective communication and teamwork skills Ability to lift up to 50 lbs; reliable transportation required English required; Spanish a plus Equal Opportunity Employer. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.