Food Specialist

AVI Foodsystems – Culinary Systems Specialist (Headquarters Service Center in Warren, OH) Founded in 1960, AVI Foodsystems has evolved into one of the most respected and trusted food service companies in the nation. Providing comprehensive food services with a focus on the highest quality and freshest ingredients, impeccable service and total value is the reputation we have earned and live up to everyday. Position Overview A Culinary Systems Specialist supports the development, implementation, and optimization of culinary processes across all segments. This role blends culinary expertise with systems thinking, ensuring that recipes, workflows, operational and system standards function efficiently and consistently at scale. The specialist acts as a bridge between culinary teams, operations, supply chain, and technology partners. Key Responsibilities Culinary Development & Standardization Develop, test, and document recipes, ensuring accuracy, scalability, and operational feasibility. Create and maintain standardized recipe systems, including yields, prep methods, allergen information, and nutritional data. Support menu innovation by collaborating with chefs, R&D teams, and cross‑functional partners. Work directly with supply chain to ensure all ingredients and recipes are updated based on product changes and availability. SME (Subject Matter Expert) to field all culinary operational systems questions and issues. Systems & Process Optimization Implement and maintain culinary systems such as recipe management software, kitchen display systems (KDS), labeling and inventory platforms. Analyze workflow efficiency and recommend process improvements for prep, production, and service. Ensure alignment between culinary standards and operational capabilities across locations. Data & Quality Assurance Monitor food quality, consistency, and compliance through audits, reporting, and data analysis. Track ingredient usage, cost trends, and operational performance to support menu engineering and cost control. Maintain accurate databases for ingredients, suppliers, and product specifications. Cross‑Functional Collaboration Partner with supply chain teams to validate product availability, substitutions, and vendor specifications. Work with training teams/R&D to develop materials, SOPs, and instructional content for culinary staff. Support technology teams in integrating culinary requirements into digital tools and platforms. Testing & Implementation Support kitchen tests, pilot programs, and rollout processes for new menu items or equipment. Troubleshoot system issues and provide feedback to improve functionality and user experience. Train culinary and operations teams on new systems, tools, and procedures. Qualifications Education & Experience Culinary degree or equivalent professional kitchen experience. Experience with culinary operations, food service systems, or multi‑unit restaurant/contract food service environments. Familiarity with recipe management or POS‑integrated systems (e.g., Production, Labeling, Digital and Inventory Systems). Skills Strong culinary foundation with an understanding of large‑scale production. Excellent analytical and organizational skills. Demonstrates clear, concise and effective communication with team members and leadership. Proficiency with digital tools, databases, and workflow systems. Ability to translate culinary concepts into operationally sound processes. Strong communication and training abilities. Core Competencies Systems thinking Attention to detail Cross‑functional communication Problem‑solving Project management Adaptability in fast‑paced environments #J-18808-Ljbffr