DIRECTOR OF CULINARY OPERATIONS

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