What are the responsibilities and job description for the DIRECTOR OF CULINARY OPERATIONS position at Mendocino Farms Talent Acquisition Team?
Job Title: Director of Culinary R&D
Reports to: Chief Operations Officer
Location: Looking for candidates that live in Dallas, TX but would also consider LA based candidates
FLSA Status: Exempt
Compensation: $140,000 – $180,000 per year plus a 15% annual bonus
Summary:
At Mendocino Farms, we don’t just sell sandwiches – we Sell Happy!
The Director of Culinary R&D will be responsible for leading menu innovation and product development at Mendo, ensuring that every new item reflects our brand values and delights our guests. This role requires a strong balance of creativity, project management, and cross-functional collaboration. Working closely with the COO and CMO, this individual will oversee tastings, consumer insights, and menu launches to drive culinary relevance and differentiation across our locations.
Responsibilities:
Menu Development & Innovation
- Research, develop, and test new menu items that align with Mendo’s food philosophy and brand strategy.
- Collaborate with our R&D Chef to refine recipes, ensuring they are operationally executable at scale.
- Balance innovation with practicality, considering cost, supply chain, and execution feasibility.
Consumer Insights & Market Research
- Analyze guest feedback, sales data, and market trends to inform culinary innovation.
- Work with Marketing to conduct guest panels, surveys, and competitive analysis.
- Identify emerging food trends and adapt them into Mendo’s menu while maintaining our unique culinary identity.
Product Testing & Optimization
- Plan and coordinate internal and external tastings, ensuring structured feedback loops.
- Partner with Operations to test and refine new products in select stores before system-wide rollout.
- Ensure all new items meet Mendo’s high standards for quality, taste, and consistency.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Marketing, Operations, and Supply Chain to ensure smooth menu launches.
- Partner with Supply Chain to source high-quality, cost-effective ingredients that align with new menu innovations.
- Collaborate with Supply Chain on vendor selection and procurement strategies to support new product development.
- Provide clear documentation and communication on new menu items to ensure proper execution.
- Support Training teams in educating restaurant teams on the story and execution of new dishes.
Strategic Planning & Budget Management
- Develop a long-term menu innovation roadmap aligned with business goals.
- Manage the R&D budget, balancing cost-effectiveness with innovation.
- Optimize supplier relationships to support new product development.
Requirements:
- Deep understanding of food trends, ingredient sourcing, and consumer preferences.
- 5 years of experience in culinary R&D, menu development, or product innovation.
- Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
- Experience working cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations, and Supply Chain.
- Data-driven approach to innovation, using insights to guide decision-making.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Passion for culinary innovation and bringing food to life in a way that excites both guests and operators.
- Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Marketing, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Benefits:
At Mendocino Farms, we believe Selling Happy starts from within. That’s why we offer:
- Competitive Salary
- Annual Bonus
- Meal Privileges—because food should make people feel good!
- Comprehensive Health Benefits & 401k Plan with Company Match
- Paid Vacation to recharge and fuel your best self
Physical Requirements:
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
- Sitting / standing 8-14 hours.
- Hand use: single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling
- Work requires the following motions: bending, twisting, squatting, and reaching
Salary : $140,000 - $180,000