Culinary R&D Lead: Innovative Menu & IP Experiences

Universal Studios; California (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

NBCUniversal is seeking a Chef, Research & Development to lead culinary innovation from concept through operational approval across multiple venues. The role combines creativity with practicality to develop scalable, financially responsible products that align with our brands and guest experiences.

The position oversees the end-to-end product development lifecycle, collaborating with Culinary Operations, Production Operations, Purchasing, Marketing, QA, Training, and external partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Associate degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, Food Science, or related field preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive culinary experience in restaurants, resorts, hotels, theme parks, production kitchens, or food manufacturing.
• 3+ years in culinary research and development, menu innovation, or product development.
• Experience developing recipes from concept through implementation.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and recipe management software.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary innovation process from concept to approval for permanent menus, seasonal events, and limited offerings.
• Develop culinary strategies aligned with business goals, guest expectations, and brand standards.
• Research trends and global cuisines to inspire new menu offerings.
• Create recipes balancing creativity, cost, quality, and guest appeal.
• Identify opportunities to refine recipes and processes for better yield and consistency.
• Lead products through development from concept to implementation and coordinate tastings.
• Present concepts and recommendations to executive leadership for approval.

Skills

Project management

Communication skills

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's or Associate in Culinary Arts/related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Recipe management software

Job description

NBCUniversal is seeking a Chef, Research & Development to lead culinary innovation from concept through operational approval across multiple venues. The role combines creativity with practicality to develop scalable, financially responsible products that align with our brands and guest experiences.

The position oversees the end-to-end product development lifecycle, collaborating with Culinary Operations, Production Operations, Purchasing, Marketing, QA, Training, and external partners.