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