Chef - Research & Development

Silva Agency • Momence, IL

20d

About The Position

We are seeking a creative and highly experienced Chef - Research & Development to lead culinary innovation and support the development of new food products from concept to commercialization. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams-including food scientists, product developers, marketing, and operations-to translate culinary trends and consumer insights into scalable, high-quality products. The ideal candidate will have a strong culinary background combined with experience in food innovation, prototyping, and ingredient functionality.

Requirements

• Culinary degree from an accredited institution; additional training in food science or product development is a plus.
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience as a professional chef, plus 2 years in an R&D or food innovation role preferred.
• Strong understanding of ingredient functionality, food systems, and scalable recipe development.
• Proven ability to ideate and execute recipes that are both trend-forward and production-feasible.
• Experience working in or with manufacturing, CPG (consumer packaged goods), or QSR (quick-service restaurant) environments is highly desirable.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills; comfortable presenting to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and recipe management or formulation software.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of innovative recipes, prototypes, and product concepts aligned with brand strategy and market trends.
• Collaborate with sale, marketing, and manufacturing teams to translate culinary ideas into commercially viable products.
• Conduct bench trials and small-scale kitchen experiments to test formulations, techniques, and ingredients.
• Stay up to date on culinary trends, global cuisines, ingredient innovations, and consumer preferences.
• Present new concepts and prototypes to internal stakeholders and clients, articulating culinary rationale and product benefits.
• Participate in sensory evaluations, shelf-life studies, and product testing to ensure taste, texture, and visual appeal meet quality standards.
• Maintain a well-organized test kitchen and ensure all culinary activities comply with food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Document all formulations, procedures, and iterations for handoff to food technologists and commercialization teams.
• Provide culinary insight and support for customer presentations, sales pitches, and trade shows.

Benefits

• We offer a wide range of market-competitive total rewards that include 401(k) match, merit increases, paid holidays, medical, dental, life, vision, and short and long-term disability benefits, to name a few.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees