Culinary Scientist: Kitchen Appliance Automation Engineer

Culinary Scientist: Kitchen Appliance Automation Engineer

We’re seeking someone who thrives at the intersection of food and technology to develop and refine smart kitchen systems. This hands-on role combines your expertise in cooking, applied mathematics, and programming to solve real-world challenges in home kitchen appliances. You’ll design experiments, optimize cooking algorithms, and work closely with hardware and software to create cutting-edge culinary solutions. If you’re ready to burn food today to help others cook it perfectly tomorrow, this job is for you!

Goal:

The primary goal of this role is to bridge culinary arts with scientific research to drive the development and validation of smart cooking appliances. You will contribute to Hestan’s mission of advancing kitchen technology by conducting experiments and analyzing results. You’ll help refine cooking processes and ensure that our products deliver consistent, high-quality results every time.

Key Responsibilities

Automation & Optimization

• Develop algorithms for cooking appliances, integrating heat transfer, ingredient behavior, and timing optimizations.
• Program and refine cooking cycles for automated systems using mathematical models and real-world cooking data.

Experimentation & Validation

• Design experiments to test appliance performance, focusing on precision, consistency, and culinary quality.
• Evaluate cooking processes, ingredient interactions, and appliance algorithms through hands-on testing.

Data Analysis & Programming

• Analyze experimental data using spreadsheets, statistical tools, and programming languages (e.g., Python, R).
• Write scripts to automate data collection and analysis for more efficient workflow and precise results.

Culinary Expertise

• Apply cooking skills to prepare and evaluate food, using both professional and home-style techniques.
• Assess sensory qualities like texture, flavor, and doneness to ensure culinary excellence in all experiments.

Collaboration & Development

• Work with cross-functional teams of engineers, designers, and chefs to integrate findings into hardware and software solutions.
• Share insights to improve product functionality and user experience.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, culinary arts, or a related field.
• Strong math foundation (e.g., calculus, optimization).
• Bonus: Coursework or experience in food science, electrical engineering, or programming.

Skills:

• Culinary Expertise: Proficiency in cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
• Programming: Proficiency in Python, JavaScript, or similar languages.
• Mathematics: Strong applied math skills, including calculus and statistical analysis.
• Technical Tools: Familiarity with sensors, data loggers, and automation systems.

Attributes:

• Strong problem-solving mindset.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Excellent communication skills for sharing findings and collaborating with diverse teams.

Working Conditions:

Location: 

Work is primarily onsite at the lab in Vallejo, CA. Work may also be necessary at our Napa test kitchen. There may be some remote work opportunities. Work trips and participation at conventions may be required, on occasion. 

Equipment: 

Standard office equipment (computer, printer, phone) as well as culinary tools (knives, stoves, cookware, etc.).

Physical Demands: 

Requires extended periods of standing or sitting, walking, bending, and repetitive hand movements.

Hours: 

Flexible hours, typically Monday through Friday between 9 am and 6 pm.

Department:

Hestan Culinary

Position Type:

Full time position

Compensation:

$68,640 - $83,200 per year benefits

Salary : $68,640 - $83,200