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Cereal Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

R&D Scientist - US

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$90K - $100K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Culinary Science or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant ... Experience with cereal extrusion, baking and/or snack manufacturing is preferred. * Experience ...

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE Master's degree in food science or related field, plus 3 years of baking or cereal industry research and development experience, or alternatively, bachelor's degree in food ...

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE Master?s degree in food science or related field, plus 3 years of baking or cereal industry research and development experience, or alternatively, bachelor?s degree in food ...

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE Master's degree in food science or related field, plus 3 years of baking or cereal industry research and development experience, or alternatively, bachelor's degree in food ...

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Cereal Scientist information

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$33K

$85.5K

$140.5K

How much do cereal scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for cereal scientist in the United States is $85,539.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cereal scientist?

Cereal scientists are professionals who study the chemistry, biology, and technology of cereal grains such as wheat, corn, rice, oats, and barley. Their work involves researching ways to improve the quality, safety, and nutritional value of cereal-based foods. They may also develop new food products, enhance processing methods, and ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Cereal scientists often collaborate with food manufacturers, agricultural producers, and regulatory agencies to advance cereal science and technology.

What are some common challenges faced by cereal scientists during product development?

Cereal scientists often encounter challenges such as achieving the desired texture and taste while maintaining nutritional value in new cereal products. Balancing ingredient functionality, processing conditions, and consumer preferences requires close collaboration with food technologists, quality assurance teams, and marketing departments. Additionally, staying updated with regulatory standards and addressing issues like shelf life and allergen management are integral parts of the role. Overcoming these challenges promotes innovation and ensures the successful launch of new products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cereal scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cereal Scientist, you need a strong background in food science, chemistry, and grain technology, often supported by a degree in food science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, quality control systems, and relevant certifications such as HACCP are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure the safe development, testing, and improvement of cereal products to meet quality standards and consumer expectations.

What is the difference between Cereal Scientist vs Food Scientist?

AspectCereal ScientistFood Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Agriculture, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Chemistry, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, cereal production facilities, agricultural settingsResearch labs, manufacturing plants, quality control labs
Industry UsageSpecialized in cereal grains and productsBroader food industry, including various food products
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Cereal Scientists and Food Scientists work within the food industry and often share similar educational backgrounds, Cereal Scientists focus specifically on cereal grains and related products. Food Scientists have a broader scope, working across various food categories. The roles overlap in research, product development, and quality control, but Cereal Scientists specialize in cereal-specific applications and innovations.

More about Cereal Scientist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cereal Scientist jobs?

The most popular types of Cereal Scientist jobs are:

Infographic showing various Cereal Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,539 per year, or $41.1 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Graphic Packaging International rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 125 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description


The Polymer Scientist is a position at GPI's Foodservice Technical Center with responsibilities for research and development of polymeric materials for food packaging including biopolymers, renewable polymers, other functional barriers, and adhesives to support GPI's organic growth and sustainability goals. The position is part of a world class talented engineering & technical team at GPI's Foodservice Technical Center and will report to the Senior Manager, Research & Development.

JOB FUNCTIONS: Job functions include but are not limited to the following.

  • Research and development of materials, processes, and applications for traditional food packaging polymers such as LDPE, PET, PS, and PP, as well as biopolymers, functional barriers, additives, adhesive and other materials for food packaging such as fiber cups, food containers, carton, and lids.
  • Develop and manage partnerships with material suppliers.
  • Work directly with other innovation resources in experiments, trials, and prototyping.
  • Write technical reports with actionable recommendations to drive product and platform innovation.
  • Communicate results via technical and business-focused presentations.
  • Operate and train on the use of analytical lab equipment.
  • Keep current with technical literature and intellectual property. Be a point-of-contact with our IP Legal team, translating discoveries and results into patent applications.
  • Participate in relevant industry organizations and committees.
  • Other duties as assigned.

BACKGROUND / EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience with traditional food packaging polymers such as LDPE, PET, PS, and PP
  • Experience with biopolymers, functional barriers, additives, adhesive and other materials for food packaging such as fiber cups, food containers, carton, and lids is a plus
  • Experience with equipment and processes for extrusion. Thermoforming is a plus.

EDUCATION / KNOWLEDGE:

  • Master's in chemistry, Polymer Science, or Chemical Engineering, with 5 years of relevant experience.
  • Continue education in a STEM field is a plus.
  • Thorough understanding of polymers and processing equipment for food packaging a plus.

SKILLS:

  • Strong analytical skills. Must have the ability to interpret results from microscopy, FTIR, DSC, TGA, SEM and Rheological analysis.
  • Must have the ability to explain technical concepts in non-technical and understandable language.
  • Must have the ability to be self-directed and manage priorities.
  • Able to translate analytical results to practical applications.

SCHEDULE DEMANDS:

  • General schedule is an 8-hour M-F assignment, however, employee must be willing to work alternate schedules occasionally; that may include early mornings, nights, and/or weekends and be punctual while doing so.
  • Occasional overnight travel to include flying, driving, riding or by rail.
  • Position may require up to 25% travel.
  • Occasional ability to work remotely.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Sitting or standing for extended periods of time up to 8-hours.
  • Occasional Lifting up to 40 lbs.
  • Reading computer screen or other electronic devices.
  • Use of various office hand and electrical tools or equipment.

KEY COMPETENCIES:

  • Oral and written communication skills
  • Researching and investigating
  • Problem solving
  • Hands-on skills
  • Detailed Documentation

Required Skills

  • Strong analytical skills. Must have the ability to interpret results from microscope, FTIR, DSC, TGA, SEM and Rheological analysis.
  • Must have the ability to explain technical concepts in non-technical and understandable language.
  • Must have the ability to be self-directed and manage priorities.
  • Experience with data analytics.

Required Experience

  • Master's in chemistry, Polymer Science, or Chemical Engineering, with 5 years of relevant experience.
  • Continue education in a STEM field is a plus.
  • Thorough understanding of polymers and processing equipment for food packaging a plus.

At Graphic Packaging International (NYSE: GPK), we produce the box you may have poured your child's cereal from this morning, the microwaveable tray that heated your lunch, the paper cup that held your coffee throughout the day, and the carrier of those bottles of craft beer you may enjoy tonight! We're one of the largest manufacturers of paperboard and paper-based packaging for some of the world's most recognized brands of food, beverage, foodservice, household, personal care and pet care products. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, we are a team of collaborative, innovative, passionate individuals who are committed to providing consumer packaging that makes a world of difference.


With almost 18,000 employees working in more than 70 locations in North and South America, Europe and the Pacific Rim, we strive to be an environmentally responsible leader in our industry and in the communities where we operate. We are committed to workplace diversity and offer compensation and benefits programs that are among the industry's best to reward the talented people who make our company successful.
If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, we'd love to hear from you. Learn more about us at www.graphicpkg.com.
Inspired Packaging. A World of Difference.


Graphic Packaging is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All candidates will be evaluated on the basis of their qualifications for the job in question. We do not base our employment decision on an employee's or applicant's race, color, religion, age, gender or sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic identity, genetic information, disability, veteran/military status or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law.Click here to view the EEO is the Law Poster


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