Job Description

MENDOCINO FARMS

Director of Culinary R&D

Summary:

At Mendocino Farms, we don’t just sell sandwiches – we Sell Happy! We believe food should spark joy, foster connection, and inspire curiosity. Our restaurants are culinary playgrounds where bold flavors, fresh ideas, and passionate people come together to create memorable experiences for every guest.

We’re searching for a visionary Director of Culinary R&D to lead the next chapter of our menu innovation. If you’re a creative culinary leader with a knack for transforming trends into crave-worthy dishes, and you thrive at the intersection of artistry and strategy, this is your stage. In this pivotal role, you’ll collaborate with our COO and CMO to dream up, develop, and launch new menu items that embody our brand’s values and set us apart in the fast-casual landscape. From blue-sky brainstorming to hands-on tastings, you’ll champion a culture of culinary curiosity, ensuring every bite at Mendo is an unforgettable experience.

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).

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

There is no “I” in Mendo

Mendocino Farms is an equal-opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. Mendocino Farms will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories for employment in a manner consistent with the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring requirements.

*This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the Team Member for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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