Culinary Developer, Culinary Development

Key job responsibilities

• Execute rigorous recipe testing with a focus on yield accuracy, methodology precision, and scalability across store formats.
• Perform end-to-end activities associated with program development: trend research, recipe ideation, testing, creation, and submission with all required documentation.
• Develop clear, replicable supporting documents and tools that ensure successful program launches across all stores.
• Capture step-by-step recipe photography to support training materials and operational guides.

Operational Excellence

• Follow and enforce established procedures including Weights and Measures, health and sanitation, and safe work practices.
• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized working environment; uphold equipment standards in accordance with Amazon and Whole Foods Market cleanliness and safety protocols.
• Assist with periodic inventory checks and report safety violations or hazards immediately.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Provide kitchen leadership by modeling expected behaviors, maintaining high energy, and fostering a strong work ethic across the team.
• Support the team leader and all team members with kitchen functions, contributing to a collaborative and efficient work environment.
• Help maintain facility security and perform additional duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive experience in a culinary or baking field.
• Demonstrated proficiency in recipe development, recipe management, kitchen organization, and nutrition fundamentals.
• Strong culinary skills with the ability to taste and evaluate products for quality, consistency, and customer appeal.
• Computer proficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook, and Chef Tec (or equivalent recipe management software).
• Exceptional attention to detail with the ability to follow complex recipes, culinary measurements, and methods with precision.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to present information clearly and respectfully to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to quickly process feedback, iterate, and deliver results under tight timelines.
• Self-motivated, solution-oriented mindset with a genuine desire to learn, grow, and push culinary boundaries.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with food photography or willingness to learn photography basics and operate professional camera equipment.
• Knowledge of emerging food trends, dietary preferences, and competitive landscape in grocery/prepared foods.
• Ability to knowledgeably communicate recipe details, food characteristics, health benefits, and differentiators that set Amazon and Whole Foods Market apart.
• Familiarity with Amazon's Leadership Principles and ability to apply them in daily work.