Culinary Selling Specialist

This job opening is for a Culinary Selling Expert position within a dynamic retail environment dedicated to engaging customers through innovative food experiences. The establishment operates a Cooking Connection kitchen, a dedicated space designed to showcase culinary skills and promote the store's key focus items through live selling activation events. The company behind this role is known for its commitment to quality food products and exceptional customer experience, making it a leader in its market. The Culinary Selling Expert plays a crucial role in this vision by acting not only as a sales associate but also as a culinary guide, offering expertise in multiple cooking techniques, ingredient knowledge, and beverage pairings to enhance the customer's shopping experience.

The Culinary Selling Expert is responsible for developing recipes tailored to the local customer base and conducting engaging cooking demonstrations that attract and educate shoppers. This role requires a combination of cooking, sales, and communication skills to effectively interact with customers and create an inviting atmosphere that encourages community engagement and loyalty. The expert will participate in store events, themed recipe creation, and cross merchandising, becoming a key player in driving sales through hospitality and expert advice. They are expected to serve as culinary authorities who can handle questions about recipes, suggest ingredient substitutions for dietary restrictions or preferences, and recommend distinctive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to complement dishes.

Maintaining high standards of food safety, sanitation, and merchandising in the kitchen and surrounding areas is essential. The role also includes responsibilities like stocking, cleaning, following federal and state food safety regulations, and ensuring that all kitchen operations comply with established guidelines. The Culinary Selling Expert is expected to contribute to store cooking classes and wine education events when needed, enhancing the overall culinary offerings of the establishment.

Candidates for this position must have at least two years of relevant experience in food preparation, cooking, or sales related to culinary products, along with strong knowledge of the company's systems and internal processes. Advanced customer service and communication skills are critical, as is the ability to manage multiple priorities and work flexible hours. Educational qualifications include a degree in culinary arts, nutrition, or home economics, or equivalent certification from the company demonstrating intermediate culinary skills.

Applicants must be at least 21 years old, hold or be able to obtain relevant certifications such as wine selling and TABC certification, and possess physical capabilities that include standing for long periods and handling various physical tasks. The environment demands attention to safety and cleanliness, as well as a passion for food and hospitality.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to combine a love of cooking with customer engagement in a retail setting, enabling culinary experts to share their skills, inspire customers, and contribute to the store's success through innovative food experiences and personalized service. Employment type and salary specifics may vary and should be confirmed during the hiring process.