Culinary R&D Director: Menu Innovation Leader (Dallas/LA)

Mendocino Farms; Dallas (TX); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Salary

Annual Bonus

Meal Privileges

Comprehensive Health Benefits & 401k

Paid Vacation

Job summary

Mendocino Farms in Dallas, TX is seeking a Director of Culinary R&D who will lead menu innovation, product development, and culinary strategy across locations. Reports to the COO; collaborates with CMO; responsible for tastings, consumer insights, and new item launches to drive differentiation and guest delight.

Requires 5+ years in culinary R&D, strong cross-functional and project management skills, data-driven decision making, and a Bachelor's in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Marketing, or

Qualifications

• 5+ years in culinary R&D, menu development, or product innovation.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration with Marketing, Operations, and Supply Chain.
• Data-driven approach to innovation.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Marketing, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Research, develop, and test new menu items that align with the brand strategy.
• Collaborate with R&D Chef to refine recipes for scale and feasibility.
• Analyze guest feedback, sales data, and market trends to inform innovation.
• Plan and coordinate tastings, coordinating with Marketing and Operations.
• Develop a long-term innovation roadmap and manage the R&D budget.

Skills

Culinary R&D

Menu development

Project management

Data-driven decision making

Communication & presentation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Marketing, or related field

Job description

Mendocino Farms in Dallas, TX is seeking a Director of Culinary R&D who will lead menu innovation, product development, and culinary strategy across locations. Reports to the COO; collaborates with CMO; responsible for tastings, consumer insights, and new item launches to drive differentiation and guest delight.

Requires 5+ years in culinary R&D, strong cross-functional and project management skills, data-driven decision making, and a Bachelor's in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Marketing, or