Culinary Development Chef

Windows Catering; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Windows Catering seeks a highly creative Culinary Development Chef to lead innovation and concept development, driving ideas from concept to delivery with minimal oversight. The role demands a strong portfolio, refined presentation skills, and leadership to push culinary innovation across events.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in culinary roles with 3+ focused on menu development, and experience in luxury dining or premium catering environments, delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Qualifications

• 7+ years culinary experience with 3+ years in menu development/innovation
• Able to lead design and execute concepts independently
• Experience in high-end restaurants, luxury catering, or fine dining
• Strong understanding of kitchen layout, station design, equipment needs
• Excellent presentation and client-facing communication
• Ability to lead under pressure with creativity and attention to detail
• Flexible schedule including evenings/weekends

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of new menu concepts and stations.
• Independently develop themed stations with multiple dish options and garnishes.
• Design and test innovative recipes aligned with trends and client needs.
• Coordinate with kitchen leadership and cross-functional teams to launch new experiences.
• Supervise food prep and kitchen staff ensuring quality and consistency.
• Oversee equipment needs, production scheduling, and resource planning for rollouts.
• Participate in tastings and client presentations.
• Ensure compliance with DOH and food safety; promote clean kitchen.
• Mentor junior staff in culinary innovation and fine dining standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Leadership

Presentation skills

Culinary development

Project management

Communication

Education

Graduate of culinary institution

Job description

Windows Catering is seeking a highly creative and independent Culinary Development Chef to lead culinary innovation and concept development. This role requires a forward-thinking professional who can take broad ideas and execute them fully from concept to delivery with minimal oversight. Ideal candidates bring a strong portfolio of creative culinary development, refined presentation skills, and the leadership to drive innovation from idea to implementation.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead the creative development and execution of new menu concepts and culinary stations, including design, layout, and ingredient selection.
• Independently develop and present full culinary stations, such as themed pasta bars, including multiple dish options, garnishes, finishes, and overall guest experience.
• Design and test innovative recipes that align with seasonal trends, client preferences, and event requirements.
• Coordinate with kitchen leadership and cross-functional teams to plan, prototype, and launch new food experiences.
• Supervise food preparation and kitchen staff, ensuring quality, consistency, and creativity across all output.
• Oversee equipment needs, production scheduling, and resource planning for new menu rollouts.
• Participate in high-end tastings and presentations with clients and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all DOH and food safety regulations while promoting a clean, efficient kitchen environment.
• Mentor junior team members in culinary innovation and fine dining standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Graduate of a recognized culinary institution or equivalent high-level professional experience.
• 7+ years of culinary experience, with at least 3 in a role focused on menu development or innovation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead culinary design and execute new concepts independently.
• Experience in high-end restaurants, luxury catering, or fine dining environments.
• Strong understanding of kitchen layout, station design, and equipment needs for varied culinary applications.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills for client-facing interactions.
• Ability to lead under pressure while maintaining creativity and attention to detail.
• Flexible schedule and availability for occasional off-premise events, including evenings and weekends.