Remote Culinary Development Chef

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 620,000 - 860,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Professional development

Flexibility

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly creative Remote Culinary Development Chef to lead menu innovation for a diverse client base across Pretoria and beyond. You will conceptualize, develop, and refine new menu items, catering packages, and unique culinary experiences from a remote setup.

You should have at least 8 years of progressive culinary experience, including 3 years in menu development, and a culinary degree.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a menu development or culinary innovation role.
• Extensive knowledge of international cuisines, flavor profiles, and modern culinary techniques.
• Proven ability to create visually appealing and delicious dishes.
• Strong understanding of food costing, inventory management, and supplier relations.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate culinary concepts effectively.
• Proficiency in using culinary software and standard office applications.
• A creative mindset with a passion for innovation and a meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet project deadlines in a remote setting.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training and experience.
• A passion for sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and test new and innovative menu items and catering concepts.
• Create detailed recipes, specifications, and plating guides for all new dishes and packages.
• Collaborate with the operations and sales teams to ensure the feasibility and profitability of new culinary offerings.
• Conduct virtual food tastings and presentations for clients and internal stakeholders.
• Research and stay updated on global food trends, culinary techniques, and emerging ingredients.
• Optimize existing menu items for cost-effectiveness, quality, and consistency across different service platforms.
• Ensure all culinary creations meet the highest standards of taste, presentation, and food safety.
• Provide culinary guidance and support to catering partners and kitchen staff through remote channels.
• Document all development processes, recipes, and costing information accurately.
• Contribute to the overall brand identity and culinary vision of the company.

Skills

Culinary creativity

Menu development

Remote work

Food cost management

Culinary software

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent training

Tools

Culinary software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in innovative culinary solutions, is seeking a highly creative and experienced Remote Culinary Development Chef. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to work from anywhere while driving culinary innovation for our diverse client base across Pretoria and beyond. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and refining new menu items, catering packages, and unique culinary experiences. Your expertise in diverse cuisines, food trends, and presentation techniques will be paramount. This role requires a deep understanding of food costs, ingredient sourcing, and the ability to translate creative ideas into scalable and profitable catering solutions. If you are a visionary chef passionate about pushing culinary boundaries and excel in a remote work environment, this is an exceptional opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and test new and innovative menu items and catering concepts, considering seasonality, dietary trends, and client preferences.
• Create detailed recipes, specifications, and plating guides for all new dishes and packages.
• Collaborate with the operations and sales teams to ensure the feasibility and profitability of new culinary offerings.
• Conduct virtual food tastings and presentations for clients and internal stakeholders.
• Research and stay updated on global food trends, culinary techniques, and emerging ingredients.
• Optimize existing menu items for cost-effectiveness, quality, and consistency across different service platforms.
• Ensure all culinary creations meet the highest standards of taste, presentation, and food safety.
• Provide culinary guidance and support to catering partners and kitchen staff through remote channels.
• Document all development processes, recipes, and costing information accurately.
• Contribute to the overall brand identity and culinary vision of the company.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 3 years in a menu development or culinary innovation role, preferably within the catering or high-volume food service sector.
• Extensive knowledge of international cuisines, flavor profiles, and modern culinary techniques.
• Proven ability to create visually appealing and delicious dishes.
• Strong understanding of food costing, inventory management, and supplier relations.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate culinary concepts effectively.
• Proficiency in using culinary software and standard office applications.
• A creative mindset with a passion for innovation and a meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet project deadlines in a remote setting.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training and experience.
• A passion for sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients is a plus.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position offering the ultimate in flexibility. Our client provides a highly competitive salary package, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits program. You will be part of a creative and dynamic team that values innovation and culinary excellence. Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development are provided, enabling you to stay at the forefront of the culinary world. This role allows you to significantly impact the company's culinary direction and shape exciting new offerings for clients throughout Pretoria and beyond, all from the convenience of your home.