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Director Food Research Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field * 3-6 years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the ...

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Director Food Research Development information

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$65.5K

$162.7K

$215K

How much do director food research development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for director food research development in the United States is $162,707.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,000.00 and $194,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
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What cities are hiring for Director Food Research Development jobs? Cities with the most Director Food Research Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Research Development jobs? The most popular types of Food Research Development jobs are:
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Director Food Research Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Food Research Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,707 per year, or $78.2 per hour.
Research & Development Manager

Research & Development Manager

Teasdale Latin Foods

Louisville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
OVERVIEW:
The Research & Development Manager is responsible for leading the R&D team in developing and enhancing food products. This role involves overseeing the entire product development process, from concept to commercialization, ensuring products meet quality standards, regulatory requirements, and market demands. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food science, product development, and project management.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
  • Drive the product development process from feasibility through testing, scale-up, and commercialization.
  • Serve as the key technical contact for customer engagement and project support.
  • Develop consistent experimental design parameters, testing protocols, shelf life, and sensory evaluation procedures across the business unit.
  • Responsible for establishing gold standard product properties, documenting andcommunicating to both internal and external stakeholders
  • Establish supplier relationships to identify new ingredients, technologies, and trends in the food industry.
  • Ensure all products meet regulatory requirements and company standards.
  • Manage development timelines and resources effectively.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field;
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in food product development, 10 years preferred, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
  • Strong knowledge of food science, ingredient functionality, and food manufacturing processes.
  • Excellent project management skills and ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Proven track record of successful product development and successful product launches.
  • Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and industry standards.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to travel up to 40%

WHAT WE'D LIKE TO SEE:
  • Master's degree preferred

WHY TEASDALE:
At Teasdale Latin Foods, our People Principles are all about Living LATIN.
What is LATIN, and how do I live it? Let us fill you in.
  • L is Learning. It emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and development within Teasdale and promotes a culture of curiosity, exploration, and acquiring new knowledge and skills.
  • A is Accountability. This encourages individuals to take ownership of their actions and responsibilities, promoting a sense of personal and collective accountability ensuring we understand how to achieve our goals.
  • T is Teamwork. It emphasizes the value of diverse perspectives, collective problem-solving, and synergy among team members, enabling us to achieve greater outcomes by leveraging the strengths and expertise of our employees.
  • I is Innovation. This promotes an environment where we are empowered to think outside the box, challenge the status quo, and seek innovative solutions to problems, fostering an atmosphere of adaptability and openness to change.
  • N is Nurturing. It emphasizes the importance of supporting and developing our employees' well-being, growth, and potential, showing that we care and are willing to invest in their long-term success and satisfaction.

We believe in finding the right people for the right roles and helping them to build careers. If this sounds like a place you'd like to be, hit apply!
Still not convinced? What about:
  • Day One - Health, Dental, and Vision Benefits
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Matching Contributions at 60 Days
  • Career Growth Opportunities and Professional Development

If you are passionate about being the right kind of leader, the point person of a fast-paced diverse workforce, and a steward of great tradition, come join the family. We want people who are up for a challenge. Let's live LATIN!

Apply