Checkers Sous Chef-R&D Specialist

PURPOSE OF YOUR WORK

At Checkers & Rally’s we make a difference in people’s lives by serving our Franchisees, Teams, and Guests. 

As a member of our R&D team you will be responsible for supporting the R&D team in developing new products and supporting daily culinary operations.

Successful candidates will be strong starters with backgrounds in communication, culinary, and organizational logistics.  This position will be based in Tampa full-time (Monday-Friday) out of our R&D facility located in the Westshore Business District.

HOW YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE EVERY DAY

• Responsible for day-to-day R&D Facility management including:
  •  Prepping and opening kitchen for daily service.
  •  Ensuring all equipment is up to spec and arranging for service when required.
  •  Reviewing, categorizing, and storing various R&D samples while rotating and ensuring stock.
  • Interfacing routinely with location facility team and external vendors for facility and equipment upkeep.
  • Routine deep cleaning of culinary areas not covered by the overnight cleaning crew.
• Manages invoice processing, budget tracking and expense reporting for R&D team.
• Provides support for focus groups including kitchen set-up, product production, reference photography, and tear-down.
• Schedules samples and shipments for external culinary support areas (including in-restaurant consumer intercepts, equipment, lab testing/calibration, photo shoots and social/media opportunities.)
• Hires and manages additional event staff to support large scale product presentations.
• Assists R&D team in planning for ideations, product presentations and events.
• Provides assistance in development of new product concepts including writing initial descriptions, recipe documentation, and cross-functional communication.

KEYS TO SUCCESS

• 2-3 years of prior leadership experience as a sous chef, assistant manager or shift leader required.
• 3-5 years of experience working in and around restaurant kitchens.  Must be able to function in and provide support to an active kitchen and work on various pieces of equipment.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally with strong communication skills.
• Highly proficient with Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• High energy with a positive, customer-centric attitude.
• Commitment to our core values of service, resourcefulness, and perseverance with a strong work ethic.
• Demonstrates ability to thrive in a fast-paced, fluid environment.
• Ability to proactively develop creative solutions.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Up to 10% travel outside of the greater Tampa area as needed.

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