Culinary R&D Manager, Robotic Kitchen Product Los Angeles, CA

Culinary R&D Manager, Robotic Kitchen Product - Los Angeles, CA Who we are Lab37 Robotics is a technology company focused on the development and deployment of robots designed specifically for direct-to-customer food production. Our mission is to revolutionize the food industry by creating innovative robotic solutions that enhance efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction. Role overview You're the culinary engine behind everything we build—new brands, core brands, and everything in between. You translate market opportunities and brand briefs into real food: the component systems, recipes, and operational playbooks that make our brands cook at scale. This is more than an R&D role—you help define the culinary roadmap for a business aiming for 100+ locations, household‑name brands, and the gold standard in digital‑first dining. You'll own the full pipeline from first sketch to production‑ready launch. What you’ll do Define and execute a cohesive culinary roadmap—new brands, core brands, and LTO strategy—aligned with our long‑term goals: 100+ locations, highly profitable, the gold standard in digital‑first. Lead the R&D pipeline for both new and core brands. Develop and execute an LTO strategy that balances culinary innovation with the realities of small, high‑volume footprints. Develop, test, and iterate recipes from base testing through production‑scale validation (COGS + labor); parameterize and certify for robotic systems. Build prep task libraries, order guides, and weekly production plans from PMIX models. Research supplier opportunities to reduce costs and improve ingredient quality. Build and maintain the component library—identify cross‑brand reuse opportunities to maximize efficiency. Collaborate with Ops to establish and enforce elite standards for prep, presentation, and safety (HACCP). Partner with Brand Manager, Designer, Ops, and Tech to ensure new launches are executed flawlessly in every kitchen. What we are looking for 8+ years culinary experience, with at least 4 years in recipe development and culinary R&D. Strong and diverse knowledge of different cuisine types. Strong systems thinking—design components, not just dishes. Experience working at speed: develop, test, iterate fast without sacrificing quality. Methodical recipe developer: build quarterly roadmaps, translate into weekly sprint schedules, remain rigorously organized, and test with intentionality. Consultant mindset: enter kitchen operations, analyze feedback, identify opportunities for continuous improvement, and translate insights into the roadmap. Collect and document data continuously throughout the process so the final recipe lands production‑ready the first time. Passion for building something new, not just executing someone else’s playbook. What else you need to know Our work environment is fast‑paced and dynamic, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and fun. We believe an enjoyable workplace drives innovation and excellence. Pay and benefits: We are looking for best‑in‑class for both talent and work ethic and provide benefits and pay to match. The base salary range for this role is $80,000 - $134,000 per year. Actual compensation will be determined on an individual basis and may vary depending on experience, skills, and qualifications. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package. You may also be eligible for equity awards and an annual performance‑based bonus. Benefits Summary (USA Full‑Time Exempt Employees) Medical, dental, and vision insurance (multiple plans, including HSA options). Company‑paid life and disability insurance (short‑ and long‑term). Voluntary insurance: accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity. Optional supplemental life insurance for self, spouse, and children. 401(k). Health Savings Account (HSA). Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter). Discretionary vacation days. 8 paid holidays per year. Lab37 is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected class status. #J-18808-Ljbffr