Research & Development (R&D) Sous Chef

Join the Tatsu-Ya Team as an R&D Sous Chef!

At Tatsu-Ya, we’re constantly pushing flavor forward. From new ramen builds and seasonal specials to innovative culinary concepts, our R&D team helps shape the future of the brand. If you’re passionate about food, creativity, and culinary innovation, we’d love to hear from you.

Perks Include:

• Competitive Salary
• Paid On-the-Job Training
• Advancement Opportunities
• Free Meals During Shifts
• Discounts at all Tatsu-Ya locations
• Family Meal
• Creative, collaborative culinary environment

Benefits:

• Paid Sick Time
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Opportunities for travel, trainings, and culinary development

What is the job? As the Research & Development (R&D) Sous Chef, you will support the development, testing, and execution of new menu items, recipes, and culinary initiatives across the Tatsu-Ya brand. Working closely with the Corporate Chef and cross-functional teams, you’ll help ensure every product meets our standards for flavor, consistency, quality, and operational execution.

What You’ll Do:

• Support the Corporate R&D team in developing, testing, and refining new culinary concepts and recipes
• Execute recipe testing, sensory evaluations, tastings, and product trials
• Maintain detailed documentation of recipes, ingredient specs, testing procedures, and results
• Assist with seasonal menu updates, LTOs, and ongoing product improvements
• Ensure recipes are scalable, consistent, and operationally efficient across multiple locations
• Assist with ingredient sourcing, vendor coordination, and culinary research
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and food safety standards within the test kitchen
• Collaborate with Operations and Training teams during rollouts and implementation of new products
• Monitor culinary trends, emerging techniques, and ingredient innovations to contribute fresh ideas

• 3–5 years of culinary experience in a high-volume kitchen environment
• Previous experience in R&D, menu development, or culinary innovation preferred
• Strong understanding of cooking techniques, flavor profiles, and ingredient functionality
• Excellent organization, communication, and time management skills
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience preferred
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, allergens, and dietary restrictions
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in fast-paced kitchen environments
• Ability to travel as needed for trainings, openings, or culinary support

Ready to help shape the future of Tatsu-Ya? Apply now to join our R&D team and bring bold ideas, big flavors, and culinary creativity to the table.