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Director Food Research Development Jobs in Michigan

NSF

Global Sales Director - Food Service

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

NSF is seeking a Global Sales Director to lead the Food Service North America sales team and ... Strong networking and client relationship development ability Preferred Qualifications: * Previous ...

NSF

Global Sales Director - Food Service

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

NSF is seeking a Global Sales Director to lead the Food Service North America sales team and ... Strong networking and client relationship development ability Preferred Qualifications: * Previous ...

BEL

Senior R&D Scientist

Grawn, MI · On-site

$100K - $127K/yr

Research / Development / Innovation Type of contract: Unlimited-term Working mode: On-site work Job ... Lead development, validation, and commercialization of new food products, recipes, processes, and ...

Bel

Senior R&D Scientist

Traverse City, MI

$90K - $100K/yr

Traverse City, MI; and Nampa, ID. #IWorkForAllForGood Summary The Senior R&D Scientist leads the development, validation, and commercialization of new food products, recipes, processes, and product ...

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Director Food Research Development information

What is the difference between Director Food Research Development vs Food Scientist?

AspectDirector Food Research DevelopmentFood Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's/Master's/PhD in Food Science or related field, leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Food Science or related field
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in R&D departments, strategic planningLaboratory and product development settings, research-focused
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing, large food companies, R&D divisionsFood companies, research institutions, product development teams

The main difference is that a Director Food Research Development oversees R&D strategies and manages teams, while a Food Scientist conducts research and develops new food products. The director has more leadership responsibilities, whereas the scientist focuses on technical research and experimentation.

What does a director of food research and development do?

A Director of Food Research and Development oversees the creation and improvement of food products within a company. They lead teams of scientists, technologists, and product developers to innovate new recipes, enhance food safety, and ensure products meet quality and regulatory standards. This role involves managing research projects, collaborating with marketing and production teams, and staying up-to-date on industry trends to drive product success in the marketplace.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of food research and development, and how can they be addressed?

A Director of Food Research and Development often encounters challenges such as aligning innovative product development with regulatory compliance, managing cross-functional teams, and balancing creativity with cost-effectiveness. Navigating shifting consumer preferences and ensuring timely launches can also be complex. Success in this role requires strong project management skills, effective communication with marketing, quality assurance, and production teams, and staying updated on industry trends and food safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of food research and development, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Food Research and Development, you need advanced expertise in food science, product development, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a degree in food science or a related field and significant industry experience. Familiarity with R&D project management tools, food safety systems like HACCP, and quality assurance certifications such as SQF or ISO 22000 is typically required. Strategic leadership, creativity, and strong cross-functional communication skills help drive innovation and successful team collaboration. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, marketable products and leading teams to deliver results in a competitive food industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Research Development jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Food Research Development jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Director Food Research Development jobs in Michigan? For Director Food Research Development jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Director Food Research Development jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Director Food Research Development jobs in Michigan are:
Director Food Research Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Food Research Development job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Research & Development Technician

Atlas Copco Group

Traverse City, MI • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Your role
As an R&D technician for PC-Traverse you will be an integral part of the engineering team working closely with design engineers to perform product validation studies, new technology experimentation, new product design initiatives and field testing with OEMs and end users. In addition, this role will have ownership of maintaining and improving the engineering lab at NVE. This position will work closely with the engineering and the sales team to bring product ideas from the arena of R&D to successful application in the field.
Job description
  • Participate in the planning and execution of R&D projects
  • Design & conduct controlled experiments and tests to collect relevant data
  • Analyze data and prepare technical reports and summaries
  • Participate in the design, development, testing & implementation of new and improved products
  • Maintain accurate records of experiments and results
  • Work closely with design engineers ensuring projects are on schedule and budget
  • Maintain and improve engineering lab at NVE and assist with production training
  • Build & maintain technical literature for sales documentation
To succeed, you will need
Educational and Experience requirements
  • Bachelor's or Associate degree in engineering or technical field preferred
  • 3-5 years' experience in manufacturing/development environment
  • Experience in product development and/or research and development
  • Familiarity with statistical analysis & technical writing
  • Hands on mechanical experience and know how
  • Must be computer literate with Microsoft Office
  • Ability to effectively communicate in English, both verbally and in writing
  • Strong problem-solving skills

Additional requirements
  • Self-directed and able to work within a team environment
  • Take responsibility on the assigned tasks and managing multiple projects
  • Well-organized
  • Attention to detail
  • Willingness to be hands-on and eager to learn
  • Proactive and commitment to solve problems "do not let a problem remain before the sunset"
  • Solid and effective communication skills - verbal, written and interpersonal
In return, we offer
  • Culture of trust and accountability
  • Lifelong learning and career growth
  • Innovation powered by people
  • Comprehensive compensation and benefits
  • Health and well-being
Job location
On-Site
This role requires you to work on-site at our office in Traverse City, United States (US). You will be part of a dynamic team and enjoy the benefits of face-to-face collaboration.
Contact information
Talent Acquisition Team: Lori L Kerlin
National Vacuum Equipment
National Vacuum Equipment, NVE, is a brand offering mobile vacuum pumps and packages. This brand is dedicated to providing reliable, high-quality products and excellent service. The products include vacuum blowers, rotary vane pumps, vacuum systems, valves and tank components. All products are designed and manufactured for easy installation and maintenance, as well as high performance in even the toughest conditions. They are efficient and cost-effective. Each customer has specific requirements for their equipment, which is why NVE customizes solutions to fit these needs. National Vacuum Equipment is a brand within Atlas Copco Group.
Visit the National Vacuum Equipment website
Company: Atlas Copco Group
Functional area: Research and Development Location: US - United States City: Traverse City On-site/remote: On-Site Brand: National Vacuum Equipment Company Name: Vacuum Technique LLC Date of Posting: August 3, 2026 Last day to apply: August 15, 2026

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