Research & Development Chef

Join to apply for the Research & Development Chef role at Yum! Brands.

Seniority level:
Mid‑Senior level.

Employment type:

Full‑time. Job function:
Management and Manufacturing. Industries:
Restaurants.

• Lead the identification of appropriate vendors and preparation of technical briefs at the onset of projects.
• Lead the development, evaluation, and revision process for product prototypes.
• Design, coordinate and execute consumer/sensory tests and in‑market research tests using common sensory and consumer research protocols, manage food and packaging inventory, and communicate results to internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop operational procedures and specifications for new products that yield a food safe and consistent quality product, including identifying new smallwares, in‑store packaging, and cooking/holding procedures.
• Conduct yield analysis and depletion work and communicate results to cross‑functional team.
• Support KFC/YUM nutritional goals by developing products that meet defined nutritional goals through theoretical and final lab analysis.
• Complete the required documentation and records for all testing and development conducted in the labs.
• Secure formulas/specifications, develop packaging labels, and identify appropriate shelf life while partnering with commercialization.
• Plan, execute, and support Chef’s Council, Food Immersions, Supplier Summits, PR/Media launch events, Ops/Market Tests.
• Plan, execute, and support product demos; NCAC, Innovation Day, Innovation WIP, LT WIP.
• Lead assigned AVA projects (Alternate Vendor Approval).
• Travel as needed to support product development, consumer testing, etc.
• Support rapid innovation testing with key franchisees to accelerate the innovation process and reduce time between concept and commercialization.

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited 4-year university, preferably in Food Science or related field.
• Experience:
  • 4+ years of relevant work experience required with Bachelor’s.
  • Experience in a Product Development position for a quick service restaurant brand ($500M+ in size), creating and commercializing successful new product offerings preferred.
• Skills:
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills to engage and align cross‑functional stakeholders; ability to present effectively.
  • Strong analytical skills to interpret data and form action‑able recommendations.
  • Exceptional project management capabilities, including driving great outcomes in a fast‑paced environment.
• Mindset:
  • Relentless in pursuit of excellence and maintaining high standards.
  • Resourceful and adaptive in ambiguous situations, able to operate “in the grey.”
  • Resilient in the face of obstacles and persistent in driving toward results.
  • Thrive in a collaborative environment and excel at inspiring and developing team members.
• Benefits:
  • Education – Bachelor’s degree preferred in Food Science.
  • Experience:
    
    5+ years R&D/technical experience, successful leading projects with minimal coaching, strong product development mindset, strong interpersonal skills, self‑motivated, strong oral and written communication.

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development in a global leader in the food service industry.
• Collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.