Job Description
Job Overview:
The R&D Culinary Training Specialist is at the heart of our food innovation, responsible for developing and delivering culinary training programs that align with our product development goals and culinary trends. This role requires a combination of culinary expertise, creativity, and teaching acumen to prepare our culinary team for success in creating and executing new menu items and concepts.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
- May oversee a team of culinary assistants or interns.
- Provides guidance and feedback to R&D team members on culinary techniques and product knowledge.
Key Responsibilities:
- Culinary Innovation:
Collaborate with the R&D team to develop innovative recipes and menus.
Stay current with industry trends to inform and inspire new product developments.
- Training Program Development:
Create comprehensive training materials and programs for culinary staff and other departments.
Conduct training sessions on new culinary techniques, recipes, and kitchen equipment.
- Quality Assurance:
Uphold high food safety and quality standards throughout the R&D process.
Provide expertise on nutritional information and food labeling as it relates to product development.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Work closely with the marketing team to ensure that new products align with brand strategy.
Liaise with supply chain and procurement to understand ingredient sourcing and availability.
- Communication:
Document culinary findings and feedback from training sessions.
Present findings to stakeholders and provide recommendations for product improvements or changes.
Competencies:
Innovation & Creativity: Demonstrates flair in the culinary arts and inspires innovation within the team.
Instructional Skills: Strong ability to educate and engage employees in learning new culinary skills.
Collaboration: Works effectively across multiple departments, enhancing product development and training.
Attention to Detail: Maintains high standards of accuracy in recipe creation and documentation.
Leadership & Influence: Leads by example and effectively motivates others.
Required Skills/Abilities:
Exceptional culinary skills with a deep understanding of flavor profiles, cooking techniques, and recipe development.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with an ability to clearly articulate culinary concepts.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software, as well as culinary-based technology and software.
Education and Experience:
Culinary Arts degree or equivalent professional kitchen experience required.
Professional training or certification in instructional design or culinary education preferred.
Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in a professional R&D or teaching kitchen.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to stand for extended periods.
Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull items up to 50 pounds.
Comfortable working in a kitchen environment, which may include exposure to high temperatures, noise, and moisture.
Work Environment:
Kitchen and retail kiosk setting.
Regular hands-on work with kitchen equipment and utensils.
Interaction with cross-functional teams to collaborate on product development.
Ability to travel as needed, domestic and international with varying notice.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Our company is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Other Duties:
Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.