Food Safety Analyst, Research and Development

About the Role

Chipotle Mexican Grill is committed to transforming the fast-food experience by promoting responsible sourcing and better food practices. Joining as a Food Safety Analyst in R&D, you will support the Food Safety and Quality Assurance team at the Chipotle Cultivate Center, executing laboratory and test kitchen operations to help ensure our products meet high quality and safety standards across our restaurant network.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct physical and analytical evaluations of various products including proteins, legumes, tortillas, dairy, ready-to-eat and ready-to-drink items, as well as non-food items and equipment.
• Analyze and consolidate sensory, analytical, and microbiological test results into comprehensive reports and recommendations for internal teams and suppliers.
• Maintain and update project trackers to monitor ongoing menu evaluations and product modifications.
• Perform cleaning validations and verifications for new restaurant equipment and utensils.
• Collaborate with FSQA and R&D to develop evaluation protocols and sensory assessment tools tailored to product types and testing goals like shelf life and product matching.
• Work closely with suppliers and lab partners to coordinate sample collection, review results, and manage quality and business documentation.
• Support root cause investigations on food quality issues alongside suppliers by collecting technical data and aiding corrective action planning.
• Contribute technical expertise to restaurant training materials and participate in workshops to uphold food safety and quality standards.
• Engage in cross-functional meetings to provide updates on product development and R&D progress.
• Assist in kitchen test operations, including receiving and organizing samples and maintaining a clean, organized work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, or Food Microbiology from a four-year college or university.
• Two to four years of experience in food manufacturing, quick-service restaurants, food science, or related areas, including exposure to FSQA, R&D, or product development processes.
• Preferred ServSafe Manager certification; may be attained after hire if not currently certified.
• Sensory training completed or willingness to undergo training is required.
• Culinary training preferred or openness to training.
• Practical experience with product testing, sensory evaluation, shelf-life studies, or quality validation.
• Solid understanding of food science principles, sensory analysis, and food preparation techniques.
• Exposure to root cause analysis and corrective actions in food production or quality environments, with ability to recommend actionable solutions.
• Experience coordinating cross-functional projects with R&D, operations, and supply chain partners.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills to clearly convey technical findings.
• Excellent organization and time management capabilities to handle multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and related tools for data entry and reporting.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities, consistently meeting deadlines.

Compensation and Benefits

The estimated base salary range for this position is $77,000 to $110,000 annually. Eligible candidates may also receive performance-based bonuses and equity awards. Additional benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage, 401(k) plan, sick leave, vacation, and more.

Additional Information

This position is based at the Chipotle Cultivate Center in Irvine, California, near the Newport Beach Corporate Office. Remote work is not an option. Chipotle is an equal opportunity employer that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities.