Research and Development Chef (Contract)
About The Position
The Cooking Lab, publisher of several Modernist Cuisine books, is seeking a highly skilled, detail-oriented contract Research and Development Chef with deep expertise in pastry arts to support their pastry project. This contract position involves working 40 hours per week onsite with a team of Research and Development chefs to test pastry recipes in collaboration with the Food Science team. The role requires technical skill, precision, high-quality data production, and thorough record keeping to advance the culinary arts through scientific knowledge and experimental techniques.
Requirements
- Degree or certification in Pastry or Culinary Arts.
- Minimum 5 years of professional pastry experience.
- Strong organizational and documentation skills.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working with pate a choux.
- At least 2 years in a product development or R&D role.
- Strong foundation in food science principles, especially related to ingredient functionality.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, experimental kitchen environment.
- Experience executing recipes to an exceptionally high standard to meet photographic needs.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word for documentation and planning.
Responsibilities
- Meticulously follow experimental protocols developed by the Pastry Manager and Food Science team.
- Prepare baked good samples for data in an efficient and highly organized manner.
- Thoroughly document, accurately label, and effectively communicate all recipe iterations, testing outcomes, and process adjustments.
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving approaches during the experimental process.
- Apply advanced baking and pastry techniques to achieve the most consistent results possible.
- Maintain high standards of quality, consistency, and data production.
- Collaborate with the culinary team to maintain kitchen organization and cleanliness on a daily basis.
- Work effectively with cross-functional teams including Editorial, Marketing and Photography.
Benefits
- Be part of a world-class culinary team pushing the boundaries of pastry innovation.
- Work in a collaborative, creative environment with access to cutting-edge tools and techniques.
- Contribute to a high-profile pastry project with opportunities for growth and impact.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
