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Associate Food Scientist Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Ardent Mills

R&D Application Technician

Denver, CO · On-site

Associate degree in Food Science, Grain Science, Biology, Chemistry, Culinary Arts, Baking Science, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field preferred. * Demonstrated knowledge of ...

New

Ardent Mills

R&D Application Technician

Denver, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate degree in Food Science, Grain Science, Biology, Chemistry, Culinary Arts, Baking Science, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field preferred. * Demonstrated knowledge of ...

New

Ardent Mills

R&D Application Technician

Denver, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate degree in Food Science, Grain Science, Biology, Chemistry, Culinary Arts, Baking Science, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field preferred. * Demonstrated knowledge of ...

New

Izzio Artisan Bakery LLC

FSQA Manager

Louisville, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate degree in Biology, Microbiology, Food Science, Nutrition, or related field, required. Bachelor's Degree is preferred. * A minimum of 5 years of related experience. Must have a minimum of 3 ...

Izzio Artisan Bakery

FSQA Manager

Louisville, CO · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate degree in Biology, Microbiology, Food Science, Nutrition, or related field, required. Bachelor's Degree is preferred. * A minimum of 5 years of related experience. Must have a minimum of 3 ...

Bimbo Bakeries USA

Quality Systems Specialist

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$94K - $122K/yr

  • Retirement

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field. * Experience with ... by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of each job. Reasonable ...

Grupo Bimbo

Quality Systems Specialist

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$94K - $122K/yr

  • Retirement

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field. * Experience with ... by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of each job. Reasonable ...

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All JobsAssociate Food Scientist JobsAssociate Food Scientist Jobs in Colorado

Associate Food Scientist information

See Colorado salary details

$19

$37

$60

How much do associate food scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate food scientist in Colorado is $37.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.33 and $42.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects that an associate food scientist might work on during their first year?

As an Associate Food Scientist, you can expect to contribute to a variety of projects such as developing new product formulations, improving existing recipes for taste or shelf life, and conducting sensory evaluations. You may also assist with lab-scale experiments, ingredient sourcing, and collaborating with cross-functional teams like quality assurance and production. Early in your role, you'll likely be involved in supporting senior scientists, documenting test results, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. This hands-on experience provides a solid foundation in both technical and collaborative aspects of food product development.

What does an associate food scientist do?

An associate food scientist supports the development and testing of food products by conducting experiments, analyzing ingredients, and ensuring quality standards are met. They often work in laboratories, use scientific tools, and follow safety protocols to assist in product innovation and compliance with regulations.

Where do food scientists get paid the most?

Food scientists tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a strong food manufacturing industry, such as certain states or metropolitan areas known for food innovation and large corporations. Salaries are also influenced by experience, education, and certifications like the Certified Food Scientist credential. Generally, working for large food companies or in research and development roles can lead to higher pay.

Is a food scientist a hard job?

A food scientist is a profession that involves developing and testing food products, often requiring strong knowledge of chemistry, microbiology, and food safety regulations. The job can be demanding due to the need for attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and sometimes long hours in laboratory or production environments.

What is the difference between Associate Food Scientist vs Food Technologist?

AspectAssociate Food ScientistFood Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Food Science or related field; some roles may require internshipsBachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or related discipline
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, quality control labsManufacturing facilities, quality assurance labs, product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing companies, research institutions, quality assurance firmsFood production companies, food processing plants, regulatory agencies

Associate Food Scientists typically focus on supporting research and development, testing, and quality control under supervision, while Food Technologists often lead product development, process improvements, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Both roles require a similar educational background and work in related environments, but their responsibilities and levels of independence differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate food scientist?

To thrive as an Associate Food Scientist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in food science or a related field, along with knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and product development. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, sensory analysis tools, and food safety systems like HACCP is important, and certifications in food safety can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and solve complex food formulation challenges. These skills ensure safe, high-quality product development and support innovation in a regulated industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Scientist jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Food Scientist jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Food Scientist jobs in Colorado? For Associate Food Scientist jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Food Scientist jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Food Scientist jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Associate Food Scientist jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Associate Food Scientist job openings:
Associate Food Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Food Scientist job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,573 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Associate Director, Food Safety & Vendor Compliance

Leprino Foods Company

Denver, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Leprino Foods rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

58th of 437 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Within our Corporate Quality Assurance team located in Denver - Leprino is seeking a Associate Director, Food Safety & Vendor Compliance to help strengthen our food safety programs, supplier assurance processes, and regulatory compliance across our manufacturing network. We believe producing safe, high-quality dairy products starts with exceptional people, thoughtful collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement!
At Leprino, starting compensation for this role typically ranges between $162,000 and $189,000. This position has an annual target bonus of 15%.
What You'll Do:
  • Build and maintain food safety policies, programs, and standards that support compliance with FDA, USDA, NCIMS, state, and international food safety requirements.
  • Provide guidance to manufacturing facilities on food safety regulations, regulatory interpretations, and supplier compliance activities.
  • Partner with plant leadership to strengthen food safety systems, improve consistency, and address regulatory or operational challenges.
  • Lead the Food Safety and Vendor Compliance teams by coaching leaders, supporting professional development, and planning department priorities.
  • Review and approve raw material and packaging specifications through SAP to support product quality and regulatory compliance.
  • Coordinate supplier assurance activities, internal quality audits, and policy updates to strengthen food safety programs across the organization.
  • Build collaborative relationships with regulatory agencies and industry organizations while supporting inspections, approvals, and evolving regulatory expectations.
  • Identify emerging food safety risks, evaluate potential business impacts, and communicate recommendations to internal leadership.
  • Lead root cause analysis, corrective actions, and continuous improvement efforts that reduce recurring food safety concerns and strengthen preventive programs.
  • Support food safety training initiatives that build knowledge, encourage consistent practices, and help teams succeed.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to support new processes, equipment, and product initiatives while maintaining regulatory compliance.

You Have At Least (Required Qualifications):
  • A Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Dairy Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a closely related scientific field.
  • Twelve years of food safety, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, or related experience with a Bachelor's degree, or eight years of related experience with a Master's degree.
  • Five years of leadership experience within food manufacturing, including people leadership and team development.
  • Five years of experience supporting food safety, quality assurance, or product development within the dairy manufacturing industry.
  • Experience interpreting and applying FDA, USDA, and other applicable food safety regulations.
  • The ability to travel as needed to support manufacturing facilities, suppliers, audits, and regulatory activities.

We Hope You Also Have (Preferred Qualifications):
  • A Master's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Dairy Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
  • Experience using SAP Specification Management or comparable specification management systems.
  • Experience supporting cheese manufacturing or cultured dairy products.
  • Experience leading supplier assurance programs, internal quality audits, or enterprise food safety initiatives.

At Leprino, we believe in equal employment opportunity and make employment decisions based on each individual's unique talents, experience, skills, and knowledge; we do not discriminate on the basis of any personal characteristics. We know we are better together and are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive culture in which all employees can thrive.
Offering You In Return:
A chance to be part of a global team of individuals passionate about producing and delivering high-quality products that help feed and nourish families around the world. Leprino could not be where it is today without our incredible employees. That is why we share in our success together by rewarding you for your hard work. Hiring great people who are in it for the long run is our goal. Through competitive salaries and bonuses, life, medical/dental/vision coverage, voluntary benefits, employee assistance programs, wellness incentives, tuition assistance, vacation, ten paid holidays, sick time, paid parental leave, annual merit increases, as well as the LFC Profit-Sharing & 401(k) plan. Your impact will be noticed and rewarded, as you seek to further our company, our customers, and one another.
Our Story:
Leprino's history dates back to the 1950s, when Jim Leprino first started making small batches of mozzarella for local markets and eateries in the Little Italy neighborhood of Denver. We've grown a bit since then. Today, Leprino is the world's largest manufacturer of mozzarella and lactose, and a leading producer of whey protein. Still owned by the Leprino family, our sights are set to be the "World's Best Dairy Food and Ingredient Company." From a small corner grocery store we have grown to over 5,500 employees throughout the globe. Will you join us on our journey?
Leprino uses Psychemedics for a 90-day hair follicle drug test as a pre-employment screening tool and also participates in E-Verify. Some positions at the Denver corporate office may require Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) based on role and location.

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