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Consumer Food Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Food Science Associate

Omaha, NE · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

... direct-to-consumer business model, holistic approach to growth, and dynamic culture uniquely ... The Associate Food Scientist will be an organized, proactive contributor who helps the team execute ...

Food Science Associate

Omaha, NE

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

... direct-to-consumer business model, holistic approach to growth, and dynamic culture uniquely ... The Associate Food Scientist will be an organized, proactive contributor who helps the team execute ...

Stay current on industry trends, competitive products, emerging ingredients, and consumer preferences. Qualifications Required Qualifications * Bachelor's Degree (minimum) in Food Science, Food ...

Stay current on industry trends, competitive products, emerging ingredients, and consumer preferences. Qualifications Required Qualifications * Bachelor's Degree (minimum) in Food Science, Food ...

Food Scientist

Madera, CA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Passion for food science, innovation, and consumer-focused product design. * Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills. * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills ...

Food Process Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

The Food Science Scientist will be part of the AI Food team and will be reporting to the Director ... consumer requirements, and translate into clear design specifications & process requirements.

Consumer Scientist

East Hanover, NJ · On-site

$69K - $95K/yr

Qualifications in food science, engineering, psychology, sociology, food technology, food chemistry or similar * Qualitative and quantitative consumer testing methods * Sensory testing methods (Round ...

R&D Food Scientist

Paterson, NJ · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

... science, or bakery ingredient manufacturing within the food ingredients, baking ingredients, or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industries. * Strong knowledge of bakery ingredient functionality ...

R&D Food Scientist

Paterson, NJ · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

... science, or bakery ingredient manufacturing within the food ingredients, baking ingredients, or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industries. * Strong knowledge of bakery ingredient functionality ...

R&D Food Scientist

Paterson, NJ · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

... science, or bakery ingredient manufacturing within the food ingredients, baking ingredients, or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industries. * Strong knowledge of bakery ingredient functionality ...

R&D Food Scientist

Paterson, NJ · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

... science, or bakery ingredient manufacturing within the food ingredients, baking ingredients, or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industries. * Strong knowledge of bakery ingredient functionality ...

R&D Food Scientist

Paterson, NJ · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

... science, or bakery ingredient manufacturing within the food ingredients, baking ingredients, or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industries. * Strong knowledge of bakery ingredient functionality ...

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Consumer Food Science information

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How much do consumer food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for consumer food science in the United States is $22.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in food nutrition?

In food nutrition, senior roles such as Director of Food Science or Nutrition Director typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require advanced education, extensive experience, and leadership skills in research, product development, or regulatory compliance.

What can I do with a consumer science degree?

A consumer food science degree prepares individuals for roles in food product development, quality assurance, sensory analysis, and consumer research within the food industry. Graduates can work in research labs, manufacturing companies, or regulatory agencies, often utilizing skills in data analysis, food safety, and product testing. Certifications in food safety or quality management can enhance employment opportunities.

What is the highest salary for a food scientist?

The highest salaries for food scientists can exceed $100,000 annually, especially for those with advanced degrees, extensive experience, or leadership roles in the industry. Senior food scientists or managers working in large companies or specialized sectors tend to earn the highest compensation.

What kind of job can I get with a food science degree?

A food science degree can lead to roles such as food scientist, quality assurance manager, product development specialist, or food safety auditor. These jobs typically involve laboratory work, product testing, and ensuring compliance with safety standards, often requiring knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and regulatory guidelines.

What is consumer food science?

Consumer food science is a field that studies how people perceive, choose, and use food products. It combines principles from food science, psychology, marketing, and sensory evaluation to understand consumer preferences and behaviors. Professionals in this field work to improve food quality, safety, and appeal based on consumer feedback and trends, helping food companies develop products that meet market demands.

What types of teams or departments do Consumer Food Scientists typically collaborate with in a food company?

Consumer Food Scientists often work closely with cross-functional teams, including product development, marketing, sensory analysis, and quality assurance. Collaboration is essential, as you may be involved in designing consumer tests, interpreting feedback, and helping translate consumer preferences into actionable product improvements. This role requires effective communication and teamwork, as findings from consumer research directly influence product formulation, branding, and even packaging decisions.

What is the difference between Consumer Food Science vs Food Technologist?

AspectConsumer Food ScienceFood Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Food Science, Nutrition, or related fieldBachelor's or higher in Food Science, Food Technology, or related
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, consumer testing, product developmentManufacturing facilities, quality control labs, R&D
Industry UsageConsumer product companies, market research firmsFood manufacturing, processing plants, quality assurance

Consumer Food Science focuses on understanding consumer preferences, sensory testing, and product development tailored to market needs. Food Technologists primarily work on the technical aspects of food processing, safety, and quality control. Both roles require a background in food science and often overlap in product development, but Consumer Food Science emphasizes consumer insights, while Food Technologists focus on technical production processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Consumer Food Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Consumer Food Scientist, you need a background in food science, nutrition, and sensory evaluation, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Proficiency with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software, and familiarity with food safety regulations are typically required. Strong communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills help you understand consumer preferences and effectively collaborate across departments. These skills are crucial for developing appealing, safe, and marketable food products that meet consumer needs.
More about Consumer Food Science jobs
Infographic showing various Consumer Food Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,976 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
**READVERTISEMENT** Asst Extension Agent (Farm &Consumer Food Safety) (0085532, CTAHR/HNFAS/Maui)

**READVERTISEMENT** Asst Extension Agent (Farm &Consumer Food Safety) (0085532, CTAHR/HNFAS/Maui)

University of Hawaii

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


University Of Hawaii System rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

204th of 560 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : UH Manoa - CTAHR, Kahului, HI
Job Type: Full-Time Permanent
Job Number: 2026-00972
Department: University of Hawai'i at Manoa - College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience
Division: Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Opening Date: 05/11/2026
Closing Date: 7/31/2026 11:59 PM Hawaii
Position Number:: 0085532
Description
Position Title: **READVERTISEMENT** Assistant Extension Agent (Farm and Consumer Food Safety)
Position Number: 0085532
Hiring Unit: College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience (CTAHR) Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Science (HNFAS)
Location: Kahului, Hawaii (Maui County)
Posted: May 11, 2026
Closing Date: July 31, 2026, 11:59 (HST); Review of applications will begin August 1, 2026 or soon thereafter and will continue until the position is filled.
Monthly Type: 11 Month
Tenure Track: Tenure
Full Time/Part Time: Full Time
Additional Salary Information: Minimum Starting Salary $89,868; commensurate with education and experience.
Other Conditions: Position Workload: 80% Extension and 20% Service; subject to adjustment based on operational needs. First review to begin August 1, 2026 or soon thereafter. For best consideration, all application materials should be submitted by July 31, 2026, 11:59PM HST.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop and implement an extension program of impact in Maui County (including the islands of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai) to address the needs of Maui County's agricultural industries, food processers/manufacturers, and consumers in the area of food safety education. The position will support statewide programming as required.
  • Document and demonstrate the impact of extension programs using appropriate methodology, reporting, and program evaluation tools.
  • Work with and disseminate technical information to farmers, processors, food manufacturers, consumers, and other relevant stakeholders statewide (including private and non-governmental organizations) using appropriate extension methods. Contribute to relevant scholarly work at the county, state, and national levels.
  • Develop and deliver a research-informed Extension education program, prepare educational materials, conduct workshops and conferences, respond to inquiries from the public, and serve as a resource in the areas of farm, processing, and consumer food safety. Issues that may be addressed include: Consumer Food Handling, Farm Food Safety, and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) education for stakeholders to meet government regulations.
  • Develop multi-disciplinary and collaborative partnerships with fellow CTAHR faculty, governmental agencies, industry associations, other land grant institutions/universities, community organizations, and the general public.
  • Obtain extramural funding and pursue opportunities to provide program sustainability in support of Extension education goals.
  • Participate in Department, College, and University service/governance.
  • Must be able to travel as needed to the different locations within Maui County (including the islands of Maui, Lanai and Molokai) as needed to meet with stakeholders.
  • Work with stakeholders. This involves conducting programming and attending appointments outside of regular working hours and/or on weekends at off-site locations.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Master's degree from a college or university of recognized standing in Food Science, Microbiology, agricultural or family and consumer sciences, or a closely related field, or in addition to a Bachelor's degree, 30 credit hours of post-baccalaureate academic work in the above-mentioned fields.
  • At least 3 years of successful experience in Cooperative Extension work or equivalent in closely related fields.
  • Demonstrated ability to obtain external funding or other in-kind program resources.
  • Ability to exercise independent judgment and to assume responsibility for developing an Extension program.
  • Ability to work harmoniously with other agents in an integrated Extension system and with related agencies.
  • Ability to travel independently to various geographical locations in a timely manner. The requirement may be fulfilled by a valid Hawai'i Driver's License (class 3), comparable driver's license, or other means of transportation that meets position needs.

Desired Qualifications
  • Coursework or experience in education/adult education or project management.
  • Demonstrated experience with delivering a food safety education program.
  • Experience developing educational materials for websites or using social media for educational purposes.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively through oral, written, and visual channels using traditional educational tools.

TO APPLY: Click in the "Apply" button on the top right corner of the screen to complete an application and attach the required documents. If you have not applied for a position before using NeoGov, you will need to create an account.
  1. Cover letter indicating how you satisfy the minimum and some, if not all, desirable qualifications;
  2. Curriculum vitae (CV);
  3. Statement of extension teaching;
  4. Names of three (3) professional references (contact information including email address); and
  5. Official transcripts or original documentation from the institution confirming the degree (copies acceptable; however, official transcripts will be required upon hire). Diplomas will not be accepted.

Note: Complete applications and required document attachments must be submitted before first review of applications or close of vacancy. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed by the hiring committee. For best consideration, all application materials should be submitted by July 13, 2026, 11:59PM HST.
Inquiries: Dr. Kacie Ho, kacieho@hawaii.edu
EEO, Clery Act, ADA
The University of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Institution and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment, including on the basis of veteran and disability status. For more information, visit: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/policies/
Employment is contingent on satisfying employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; reference checks of previous employers; and for certain positions, criminal history record checks.
In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, annual campus crime statistics for the University of Hawai'i may be viewed at: https://www.hawaii.edu/titleix/help/campus-security/, or a paper copy may be obtained upon request from the respective UH Campus Security or Administrative Services Office.
Accommodation Request: The University of Hawai'i complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the EEO coordinator directly. Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. For further information, please refer to the following link: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/accommodation-request/
01
Do you have a Master's degree from a college or university of recognized standing, with major work in animal science or a related field, or, in addition to the Bachelor's degree, 30 credit hours of post baccalaureate academic work in a field appropriate to the position?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have at least three (3) years of successful experience in Cooperative Extension work or equivalent in a closely-related field?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Complete applications and all requested document attachments must be submitted before first review and/or close of vacancy. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed by the hiring committee. Do you attest that you understand that incomplete applications (as described in the "To Apply" section) will not be reviewed by the hiring committee?
  • Yes, I acknowledge that incomplete applications will not be referred or reviewed by the hiring committee.

Required Question

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About University of Hawaii

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Hawaii, located in Honolulu, HI, US, is an internationally recognized institution of higher learning. Spanning across ten campuses, including one online university, it represents the public system of higher education in the state of Hawaii. Established in 1907, the university operates in the educational services industry, its mission rooted in quality and affordable education for all. It offers over 600 different study programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in a broad spectrum of disciplines. Some of its unrivaled specialties encompass tropical agriculture, tropical medicine, oceanography, astronomy, electrical engineering, volcanology, and Pacific Islands and Asian area studies.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Honolulu, HI, US

Year founded

1907