ROLE SUMMARY:

The Product Development Chef is responsible for creating and refining new food products, ensuring they align with market trends and are feasible for large-scale production. The Product Development Chef plays a vital role by combining culinary creativity with practical considerations to bring new and exciting food products to market. This position requires a blend of artistic flair and analytical skills to ensure that products are not only innovative but also viable for production and distribution. This is an on-site role at our Jessup, MD facility, with a Monday through Friday schedule.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Conceptualization and Development: Conceptualize new food products, experiment with ingredients and techniques, to create innovative recipes that meet consumer preferences and market demands.
Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, procurement, quality assurance, and production, to ensure new products are not only delicious but also compliant with food safety regulations and feasible for manufacturing.
Research and Trend Analysis: Stay updated on emerging food trends and consumer preferences. Conduct research to identify new ingredients and culinary techniques that can enhance product offerings.
Sensory Evaluation: Conduct sensory evaluations to perfect recipes. This involves tasting and adjusting recipes based on feedback from team members and other testing groups.
Documentation: Create detailed product specifications, cost analyses, and preparation instructions for each new item, ensuring consistency and quality in production.
Product Launch: Establish ratios for ingredients and finalize recipes for production.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:

Possesses culinary expertise with a passion for food.
Experienced with food science and culinary techniques.
Previous experience in menu development, large-scale recipe formulation, and working within a commercial kitchen or manufacturing environment is required.
Experience developing unique and appealing food products.
Familiarity with ingredient functionality and food safety standards.
Excellent communication and project management skills are necessary.
Proficient with Microsoft 365, especially Excel, Outlook, and Word.

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES:

Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
Creative and Innovative: Able to develop innovative and creative product ideas.
Collaboration: Works effectively with other team members to reach a common goal.
Adaptable and Flexible: Adjusts quickly to changing demands or production constraints.
Critical Thinking: Balances cost, nutrition, and flavor without compromising quality.

WHY APPLY? Join a vibrant, fast-growing company where your contributions matter! As a valued team member, you'll enjoy these well-rounded benefits and perks designed to support your well-being and career growth:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
401(k) with generous company match
Paid time off opportunities
Exclusive employee discounts
Continuous learning and career advancement

Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site