Culinary R&D Coordinator

Noodles & Company•Broomfield, CO

5d•$21 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

As the Culinary Research & Development Coordinator, you support the day-to-day execution of Noodles & Company’s Culinary R&D initiatives. Working closely with the Culinary R&D Manager, you play a hands-on role in test kitchen operations, culinary testing, and cross-functional project support. You contribute to the development, testing, and documentation of menu items and procedures, partnering with Supply Management, QA, Training, Project Management, and other teams to ensure accuracy, consistency, and readiness throughout the R&D process. This role is well suited for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and enjoys translating culinary ideas into operational reality. At Noodles & Company, we believe great food can spark meaningful connections. That’s why we’re on a mission to reintroduce the world to noodles—not just as a meal, but as an experience worth craving. As we evolve our brand to meet the modern guest, we’re focused on creating moments that surprise, delight, and shift perceptions of what fast-casual can be. Every bowl we serve is rooted in global flavors, fresh ingredients, and intentional hospitality that makes guests feel seen and valued. Our values—We Care, We Show Pride, We Are Passionionate, and We Love Life—guide how we show up for our guests, our team members, and each other.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Nutrition, Hospitality, or a related field preferred, or equivalent hands-on experience in restaurant culinary or test kitchen environments
2–3 years of experience in restaurant kitchens, culinary R&D, or test kitchen settings, ideally within a multi-unit or corporate-supported environment
Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced setting
High attention to detail and the ability to work accurately within structured testing, documentation, and tracking processes
Adaptability and comfort navigating shifting priorities and evolving project needs
Effective communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional partners and external vendors
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Mac Pages, with the ability to learn and support inventory or R&D systems such as ERS
Willingness to support limited travel related to commercialization, testing, or training initiatives
This role requires regular preparation, handling, and sensory evaluation of food products, including exposure to common food allergens in a test kitchen environment. The individual must be able to safely perform these essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation
This role is based in our Restaurant Support Center in Broomfield, Colorado and requires regular on-site work, including time in our test kitchen, with occasional travel to test restaurants or suppliers as needed. Candidates should expect to be on-site most of the week. We’re seeking candidates who either reside locally or are open to relocating.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with ESHA Genesis nutritional software preferred

Responsibilities

Support culinary R&D projects, including supply chain savings initiatives, RFPs, and contingency efforts that result in culinary matching or reformulation projects
Assist with structured culinary cuttings, including planning, ingredient procurement, setup, and facilitation
Maintain and update the nutritional database to support ongoing menu updates, market tests, and limited-time offers
Support commercialization efforts, including scale-ups, product reviews, and test execution under established guidance
Manage day-to-day test kitchen operations, including inventory tracking, product rotation, and cleaning schedules
Conduct cook studies and evaluations for new and existing equipment following defined testing protocols
Maintain departmental trackers, documentation, and project records to ensure accuracy and organization
Partner effectively with external vendors and suppliers as needed
Assist with public relations initiatives and on-air cooking demonstrations when required

Benefits

Pay range: $21.15 to $26.68 per hour
Eligible for annual performance bonus up to 5%
Flexible paid time off
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) and stock purchase discounts
Paid maternity and paternity leaves, adoption, and surrogacy benefits
Noodles Resource Groups – inclusive communities that foster belonging, build connections, and support your personal and professional growth
Scholarship opportunities through Noodles Foundation
Monthly technology stipend
Discounts through our gift card program