Product Chef, Test Kitchen

Description

Our Product Development Chef is a key member of our team who assist in implementing, maintaining, and improving all our quality sauces. In addition, they are an essential partner to our clients ensuring successful bottling and flavor profiles match their needs. Who also ensures product safety, regulatory compliance, and compliance with company standards. Primary responsibilities include:

• Work in test kitchen to develop recipes and procedures for large scale production; utilize culinary skills and experience in food product development, including reading and following recipes
• Participate in all stages of product development, from ideation to manufacturing; provide technical culinary expertise in assigned projects and verticals; plan, prioritize and complete multiple simultaneous tasks effectively within deadlines; maintain accurate and complete records
• Interact professionally with internal and external customers in development of products; sample products and determine product differences and ingredients through taste testing
• Meticulously record all tests and all pertinent analytical information; data entry of information into Nav software; provide relevant reporting; calculate costing of ingredients such that products are developed within targeted cost range
• Lead and participate in product tastings and plant trials of new products; assist in the production of product samples for internal and external requests
• Ensure the work area is orderly, organized and clean for efficient use for testing
• Monitor and research culinary trends, manufacturing processes, and innovations on an ongoing basis to continue to bring new ideas to the team
• Physical Requirements: ability to lift up to 20-lbs; ability to bend, stoop, twist repetitively and stand for full 8-hour shift: work may be physically demanding and can require the use of some or all body parts and muscle groups. Some requirement of repetitive overhead lifting on occasion.

Requirements

The successful candidate will possess:

• A minimum of 1 year recent Culinary experience; manufacturing experience is a plus!
• Bachelors in Food Science related field or equivalent combined experience.
• PCQI Certification and Experience with ERP systems as it applies to manufacturing is a plus!
• Physical demands: This position requires the ability to be constantly moving throughout the office and gift store which includes but not limited to walking, talking, hearing, reaching, grabbing and standing for at least 8 hours a day. May occasionally involve bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching and climbing.

The successful candidate will also demonstrate the following abilities:

• Communication: Excel in both written and oral communication; effective interpersonal and presentation skills; with professional attitude.
• Organized: Able to work independently; effective time management skills; able to manage multiple tasks concurrently, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines with a high attention to detail.
• Analytical: Superior critical thinking skills with the ability to research and analyze data from multiple sources and make independent decisions. Strong business acumen, including problem solving skills, critical thinking, and self-initiative.
• Adaptable: Willingness to accept change; exhibit flexibility and adaptability. Along with the ability to absorb and quickly understand new information.
• Resourceful: Ability to deliver results utilizing the resources available. Has a get-it-done mentality.