Culinary Innovation Manager - $113000 to $158000 per YEAR

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. is a standout leader in the fast-casual dining industry, committed to transforming the typical fast-food experience into one that prioritizes real, responsibly sourced food. With a footprint spanning the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, Chipotle distinguishes itself not only through its innovative culinary offerings but also as the only restaurant company of its size to own and operate all its restaurants across North America and Europe. This dedication to quality and consistency supports its mission to cultivate a better world through food. The company’s ethos centers on serving real food with integrity, avoiding artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and fostering sustainable business practices that impact the community positively. Chipotle champions a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion and is committed to supporting all employees and applicants through a people-first approach. This role offers an exciting opportunity to join Chipotle's culinary team, where the focus is on executing and supporting the company's culinary strategy. As a member of this dynamic team, the successful candidate will be deeply involved in delivering Chipotle’s core values: being guest obsessed, ensuring culinary excellence, driving product research and development innovation, and supporting overall culinary operations. This hands-on role requires leadership and collaboration with fellow culinary professionals, cross-functional partners, and suppliers to advance innovative menu items and uphold the standards of Chipotle's Food with Integrity (FWI) program. The position is particularly suited for those passionate about culinary innovation and dedicated to quality and integrity in food preparation. The culinary leadership role at Chipotle enhances the company's commitment to new product innovation and core menu optimization. You'll manage and steward product innovation projects using the Stage Gate Process for innovation and core improvement initiatives, ensuring all offerings meet Chipotle’s high standards. Responsibilities include planning and executing consumer testing and product validation through various methods such as in-store testing, focus groups, and market pilots. This role requires a culinary arts degree and substantial experience—preferably over seven years—in active culinary roles, with significant exposure to the quick-service restaurant (QSR) and multi-unit service segments. Supervisory experience and a strong track record in innovation, commercialization, and problem-solving are essential. The work model includes 15-25% domestic travel and a five-day in-person workweek at Chipotle’s Newport Beach and Irvine offices. Compensation for this role ranges from $113,000 to $158,000 annually, supplemented by performance-based bonuses and equity awards. Chipotle also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan, paid sick leave, vacation time, and more. This position encapsulates a unique blend of culinary creativity, leadership, and business acumen, all aimed at cultivating a better world through better food.

• Culinary arts degree required
• 7+ years of culinary experience including 3+ years in QSR and multi-unit service segment
• 2+ years supervisory experience preferred
• Passion for exceptional food and people
• Experience in menu innovation, product R&D, and commercialization
• Ability to manage multiple projects and teams
• Strong communication skills and presentation abilities
• Willingness to travel domestically 15-25%
• Work onsite 5 days per week at Chipotle’s Newport Beach and Irvine offices