What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chef, Research & Development position at Lensa?
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Job Summary
Works with Culinary leadership to research new food products and assists in implementation of design and themed food concepts or items throughout the resort and UDX. Formulates and tests new products, research suppliers and other food and beverage industries. Works Closely with creative project teams with a focus on culinary operation of new build Food & Beverage outlets. Along with the Rev Ops Project managers, assists project teams with oversight of the design, construction, build out and operational transition of all new Food & Beverage venues to ensure that culinary requirements are incorporated. Assists the project team on proper implementation of full life cycle projects to include design, construction, staffing, training, and commissioning through the grand opening.
Major Responsibilities
Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Orlando via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Orlando HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Orlando. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Orlando as a result of the referral or through other means.
Universal Orlando Resort. Here you can.
Universal Orlando is an equal opportunity employer. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2026 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. EOE
If you have questions about this posting, please contact support@lensa.com
Job Summary
Works with Culinary leadership to research new food products and assists in implementation of design and themed food concepts or items throughout the resort and UDX. Formulates and tests new products, research suppliers and other food and beverage industries. Works Closely with creative project teams with a focus on culinary operation of new build Food & Beverage outlets. Along with the Rev Ops Project managers, assists project teams with oversight of the design, construction, build out and operational transition of all new Food & Beverage venues to ensure that culinary requirements are incorporated. Assists the project team on proper implementation of full life cycle projects to include design, construction, staffing, training, and commissioning through the grand opening.
Major Responsibilities
- In collaboration with Universal Creative, plan and design new culinary concepts that meet Universal specifications while ensuring that all operational needs are met. Assists the VP, Exec Chef with development of all menu food items, plate presentations, and recipes to include marquee events. Research new food product and market trends to develop menu concepts or items for future projects.
- Assists with reviewing and providing feedback on facility design drawings/packages and creation Operational Training Materials creation. Ensures that menu items are set up correctly in Eatec as well as prepared according to menu description and recipe. Attends and assists with operational input for final design reviews with F&B designers and engineers. Assists with projects and adherence to schedule while ensuring that the scope of work is prioritized and completed properly to deliver a strong finish.
- Partner with Talent Development to create and facilitate training of all new food and beverage offerings; to include marquee events, menu refreshes and new venue openings.
- Ensures quality and safety standards are followed. Ensures proper HACCP program in place.
- Understands and actively participates in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Indirectly oversees the work of Exempt and Non-Exempt teams through training and implementations.
- Works closely with Universal Creative, Technical Services, Engineering, IT, and all Operations groups.
- Domestic and international travel is required.
- Associate’s degree or equivalent from a college or technical school required.
- Completion of a post-secondary culinary arts certificate or degree program or apprenticeship preferred.
- 5 years prior experience working as an R&D Chef or 5 years of experience as a Restaurant Chef, Executive Sous Chef, Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager.
- Or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Chef’s apprentice preferred.
- Certified Professional Food Manager Certification required.
- Exceptional culinary skills and a flair for food quality; flavor, recipe development, portion, plating, garnish, innovation, well versed on upscale casual trends/market.
- Knowledge of product development science of food.
- Uses training of food science and culinary art to contribute to research and development.
- Applied knowledge of culinary, chemistry, engineering and sensory evaluation to create recipes and product.
- Must have a strong understanding of flavors and textures and ability to work with many styles of cuisine.
- Ability to observe market trends and introduce new trends.
- Ability to work independently and/or collaboratively to meet menu goals and deadlines.
Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Orlando via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Orlando HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Orlando. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Orlando as a result of the referral or through other means.
Universal Orlando Resort. Here you can.
Universal Orlando is an equal opportunity employer. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2026 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. EOE
If you have questions about this posting, please contact support@lensa.com