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Coffee Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Scientist role within Research and Development will support the product Innovation agenda to ... Our global coffee business spans more than 100 markets and includes the leading Keurig singleserve ...

The Scientist role within Research and Development will support the product Innovation agenda to ... Our global coffee business spans more than 100 markets and includes the leading Keurig ® single ...

Scientist, R&D Reports To: R&D Manager Department / Group: New Product Development - Retail ... Pass and complete sensory training to support coffee cuppings, administer differential testing and ...

Scientist, R&D Reports To: R&D Manager Department / Group: New Product Development - Retail ... Pass and complete sensory training to support coffee cuppings, administer differential testing and ...

Scientist, R&D Reports To: R&D Manager Department / Group: New Product Development - Retail ... Pass and complete sensory training to support coffee cuppings, administer differential testing and ...

The Senior Food Scientist will work closely with Olam Food Ingredient (OFI) Ingredient and Culinary ... Collaborate with ingredient specialist in the Cocoa, Nuts, Spices and Coffee teams to design best ...

Scientist, R&D Reports To: R&D Manager Department / Group: New Product Development - Retail ... Pass and complete sensory training to support coffee cuppings, administer differential testing and ...

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Coffee Scientist information

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$91K

$160K

How much do coffee scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for coffee scientist in the United States is $90,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coffee scientist?

Coffee scientists are professionals who study the chemical, biological, and physical aspects of coffee, from cultivation and processing to brewing and sensory analysis. They work to improve coffee quality, develop new processing techniques, and solve challenges related to flavor, sustainability, and safety. Coffee scientists may work in research institutions, coffee companies, or government agencies, and often collaborate with farmers, roasters, and baristas. Their expertise helps ensure that coffee is not only enjoyable but also safe and sustainably produced.

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

To thrive as a Coffee Scientist, you need a strong background in food science, chemistry, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Experience with laboratory equipment, sensory analysis tools, and data analysis software is typically required. Attention to detail, curiosity, and effective communication are important soft skills for research and collaboration. These skills ensure the development of high-quality coffee products and drive innovation in coffee research and production.

What is the difference between Coffee Scientist vs Coffee Quality Analyst?

AspectCoffee ScientistCoffee Quality Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Chemistry, or related field; specialized knowledge in coffee chemistry and processingOften similar credentials; focus on sensory analysis, quality control, and cupping certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, coffee processing facilities, product development settingsQuality control labs, cupping rooms, coffee roasteries
Employer & Industry UsageFood and beverage companies, coffee roasters, research institutionsCoffee roasters, importers, quality assurance departments

While both roles require knowledge of coffee and related credentials, a Coffee Scientist primarily focuses on research, product development, and scientific analysis of coffee properties. In contrast, a Coffee Quality Analyst emphasizes sensory evaluation, quality control, and ensuring coffee meets specific standards. Both roles are vital in the coffee industry but serve different functions within the supply chain.

What states have the most Coffee Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Coffee Scientist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Coffee Scientist jobs?

For Coffee Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Coffee Scientist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,961 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Research and Development Scientist

Moody, AL

Red Diamond, Inc.
201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

At Red Diamond, we are driven by an obsession to provide a world-class coffee and tea experience. Since 1906, the cornerstone of our company has been our commitment to unparalleled quality, innovation and customer service. The company’s culture centers on quality, authenticity, and taking extra care from field to final sip, with no shortcuts or compromises.  We offer competitive compensation and benefits.  Join our legacy and become a part of the Red Diamond team!

Summary: The Research & Development Scientist will assist in innovation efforts across the company by collaborating with cross functional leadership including division sales executives, sales leaders, marketing, and quality assurance to develop new products/flavors and enhance existing ones to meet company objectives.  Responsible for development of new products through all phases of creation while staying within specified parameters of cost and label claims.  May interact with customers and external R&D teams and must be able to clearly present and articulate product ideas.  Office-based position located in Moody, AL.  

Essential job functions:

  1. Lead product development projects from concept through commercialization, as well as product improvements according to business needs.
  2. Oversee and lead multiple R&D projects simultaneously, ensuring accurate and timely completion of requests and projects. 
  3. Identify and test new products, flavors, processes, ingredients, and technologies.
  4. Support manufacturing plant operations in process improvements and problem troubleshooting.
  5. Maintain documentation, clear and concise lab notebooks, and provide reports. Support specification development.
  6. Remain on the forefront of beverage trends and food science to suggest and create innovative products for the company.
  7. Provide technical and scientific input for manufacturing including developing testing parameters for QA, product specification sheets, and shelf-life monitoring and evaluations.
  8. Apply technical knowledge and establish credibility with highly technical audiences.
  9. Participate in brainstorming and ideation for new products.
  10. Use sensory techniques to match competitive products.
  11. Ability to troubleshoot issues that arise with formulations based on knowledge of ingredient interactions.
  12. Support plant trials and first production to ensure product consistency and alignment with bench-top formulations.
  13. Support customer needs and provide technical presentation materials when needed.

      Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

    1. Knowledge of lab testing skills, methods, and equipment.
    2. Basic understanding of flavors and functionality of flavors.
    3. Basic understanding of ingredients and functionality of those ingredients in a finished product.
    4. Basic nutritional knowledge and understanding of labeling etc. of food products.
    5. Strong formulation skills.
    6. Strong project management skills. 
    7. Detail oriented and quick learner.
    8. Ability to work cross functionally.
    9. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
    10. Excellent math skills.
    11. Proficient skill with personal computer and job-related software including Microsoft Office products.
    12. Ability to successfully handle multiple tasks at one time and meet deadlines.
    13. Ability to distinguish colors, aromas, and flavors for product evaluations.
    14. Ability to work independently and with a team.
    15. Knowledge and understanding of basic Food Safety and FDA and regulatory requirements.

     Education and Experience Required: Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and 3-5 years’ experience in R&D/Product Development, with beverage and coffee/tea experience preferred.