Test Kitchen Manager

Irving, TX, USA|

Job Overview

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee Discounts

Training and Development

Paid holidays

Job Description

7-Eleven is a globally recognized leader in the convenience retail industry, boasting a family of brands with over 86,000 locations worldwide. Established as the first convenience store concept, 7-Eleven continues to revolutionize the way consumers access everyday items, food, and fuel by leveraging cutting-edge innovation and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Known for being a dependable and accessible retailer, 7-Eleven aims to be the first choice for customers around the globe by offering a wide variety of products and services conveniently available at all times. The company fosters an environment where employees are empowered to 'activate awesome,' encouraging them to make meaningful contributions not only to their stores but also to their local communities. If you are someone who is passionate about growth, leadership, and making a genuine impact, 7-Eleven provides a dynamic workplace where you can shape the future of convenience retailing and be part of a global movement that sets industry standards.

The role of Test Kitchen Specialist at 7-Eleven is a vital position within the company’s corporate environment, specifically within the product development and innovation sector. This role is chiefly responsible for managing the organization and maintenance of the corporate test kitchen, ensuring that all ingredients, materials, and equipment are consistently prepared and available for various product development activities. As a Test Kitchen Specialist, you will play a critical role supporting Food Scientists, Product Developers, Culinary Specialists, and Test Kitchen Technicians by maintaining kitchen readiness and supporting the efficient execution of product trials, sensory evaluations, culinary demonstrations, and commercialization projects. This position requires meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a deep appreciation for food safety standards and procedures.

In this role, you will be entrusted with receiving and inspecting ingredients and samples, preparing and assembling ingredients according to precise project specifications, and ensuring the kitchen is kept in optimal condition through thorough cleaning, stocking, and equipment maintenance. Additionally, you will handle inventory management duties such as tracking stock levels, rotating ingredients using first-in-first-out (FIFO) processes, reordering supplies, and coordinating with vendors and accounting for invoice processing. The role also involves actively supporting product development teams during kitchen trials and sensory testing sessions by preparing samples and facilitating meeting setups.

The Test Kitchen Specialist role at 7-Eleven is perfect for individuals who enjoy food preparation and kitchen operations while aspiring to contribute to innovation and product development within a corporate food business context. Candidates should be adaptable, detail-oriented, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of food safety and sanitation, contributing to the smooth and successful operation of the test kitchen. This position provides an opportunity to grow professionally within a renowned global brand that values teamwork, dependability, and continuous improvement. Please note, this position is not eligible for sponsorship, emphasizing the need for candidates to be authorized to work in the United States independently.

Job Requirements

high school diploma or equivalent
2-5 years of relevant experience preferably in food preparation or similar environments
ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift throughout the workday
ability to lift 20-50 pounds daily
comfortable working in refrigerated, freezer, and kitchen environments
ability to safely operate kitchen equipment and tools
strong organizational skills
effective communication skills
proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
ability to multitask and prioritize
commitment to food safety and sanitation practices
adaptable to work flexible hours including weekends

Job Qualifications

high school diploma or equivalent required
associate degree, culinary training, or food science coursework preferred
2-5 years of experience in food preparation, commercial kitchens, food manufacturing, catering, or test kitchen environments preferred
experience handling food ingredients and kitchen equipment
familiarity with inventory management and food safety practices
strong organizational skills and attention to detail
ability to follow instructions and standardized procedures
proficiency in Microsoft applications including Outlook, Teams, and Office
ability to multitask and prioritize responsibilities
effective communication and teamwork skills
dependability and accountability
attention to detail
organization and planning
customer and service orientation
flexibility and adaptability including ability to work outside of core work hours including weekends as business needs arise
team collaboration
commitment to food safety and quality

Job Duties

receive, inspect, label, and organize ingredients and product samples
prepare ingredients according to project requirements including weighing, measuring, portioning, washing, cutting, and staging
assemble ingredients and materials for scheduled product development trials
prepare samples for sensory panels, shelf-life evaluations, and internal meetings
package, label, and store samples following established procedures
maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked test kitchen
set up workstations and equipment prior to scheduled testing activities
ensure ingredients, supplies, and tools are readily available for project teams
monitor inventory levels and communicate replenishment needs
organize storage areas, refrigerators, freezers, and dry storage locations
perform deep cleaning of equipment, wash and organize dishware and clothware, ensuring kitchen GMPs are followed
order products, ingredients, and consumables through various suppliers and send invoices to accounting
receive and log deliveries, verify ingredient and supply orders
track inventory and rotate stock using FIFO practices
maintain ingredient databases and inventory records
assist with purchasing requests and vendor coordination as needed
dispose of expired or non-compliant ingredients according to company procedures
clean and sanitize kitchen equipment, utensils, and work areas
assist with routine equipment maintenance and calibration
ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards
maintain kitchen and employee food handling certifications
maintain dishwashing and sanitation processes
perform preventive maintenance of equipment including daily temperature checks, periodic deep cleaning, and service calls
support product development teams during kitchen trials and sample preparation
assist with meeting setup, tasting sessions, and product evaluations
prepare presentation materials and sample displays for stakeholders and customers
perform other administrative and operational support tasks as assigned
facilitate training of new team members on kitchen protocols including GMPs and SOPs