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Entry Level Food Product Development Jobs in Virginia

CROSSMARK1

Product Event Demonstrator

Amherst, VA · On-site

Company Description CROSSMARK is looking for associates to complete in-store food and product ... Company-provided training (Ideal for entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.) *Crossmark ...

CROSSMARK1

Product Event Demonstrator

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Company Description CROSSMARK is looking for associates to complete in-store food and product ... Company-provided training (Ideal for entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.) *Crossmark ...

CROSSMARK1

Product Event Demonstrator

Prince George, VA · On-site

Company Description CROSSMARK is looking for associates to complete in-store food and product ... Company-provided training (Ideal for entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.) *Crossmark ...

CROSSMARK1

Product Event Demonstrator

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

Company Description CROSSMARK is looking for associates to complete in-store food and product ... Company-provided training (Ideal for entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.) *Crossmark ...

CROSSMARK1

Product Event Demonstrator

Quinton, VA · On-site

Company Description CROSSMARK is looking for associates to complete in-store food and product ... Company-provided training (Ideal for entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.) *Crossmark ...

CROSSMARK1

Product Event Demonstrator

Ruckersville, VA · On-site

Company Description CROSSMARK is looking for associates to complete in-store food and product ... Company-provided training (Ideal for entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.) *Crossmark ...

CROSSMARK1

Product Event Demonstrator

Oak Hill, VA · On-site

Company Description CROSSMARK is looking for associates to complete in-store food and product ... Company-provided training (Ideal for entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.) *Crossmark ...

CROSSMARK1

Product Event Demonstrator

South Hill, VA · On-site

Company Description CROSSMARK is looking for associates to complete in-store food and product ... Company-provided training (Ideal for entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.) *Crossmark ...

CROSSMARK1

Product Event Demonstrator

Heathsville, VA · On-site

Company Description CROSSMARK is looking for associates to complete in-store food and product ... Company-provided training (Ideal for entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.) *Crossmark ...

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All JobsFood Product Development JobsEntry Level Food Product Development JobsEntry Level Food Product Development Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Food Product Development information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$24

$41

How much do entry level food product development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food product development in Virginia is $24.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level food product development job?

Entry level food product development jobs are positions for individuals who are starting their careers in creating and improving food products. These roles often involve working with food scientists and technologists to help formulate new food items, conduct sensory testing, and ensure food safety and quality standards. Typical tasks include assisting in recipe development, preparing samples, running experiments, and documenting results. These positions usually require a degree in food science, nutrition, or a related field and offer valuable experience in the food industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level food product development professional?

To thrive in Entry Level Food Product Development, you need a background in food science, nutrition, or a related field, along with knowledge of food safety and quality standards. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, sensory evaluation methods, and data analysis software like Excel or specialized food industry tools is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills help you generate innovative products and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure the successful creation, testing, and launch of safe, appealing, and marketable food products.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level food product development professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level food product development professionals often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced project timelines, balancing creativity with strict food safety and regulatory requirements, and effectively communicating with cross-functional teams like marketing, quality assurance, and production. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to stay organized, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and actively participate in team meetings to understand different perspectives. Building a strong foundation in food science principles and staying updated on industry trends will also help you contribute valuable ideas and grow within the team.

What is the difference between Entry Level Food Product Development vs Food Technologist?

AspectEntry Level Food Product DevelopmentFood Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Food Science or related fieldBachelor's in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentProduct development labs, R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, quality control labs
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, startups, R&D firmsFood manufacturing, quality assurance, regulatory agencies

Entry Level Food Product Development focuses on creating new food products and improving existing ones, often working in R&D labs. Food Technologists typically handle quality control, testing, and ensuring products meet safety standards. While both roles require a food science background, Entry Level Food Product Development emphasizes innovation, whereas Food Technologists focus on compliance and quality assurance.

What degree do you need to be an entry level food product developer?

Entry level food product developers typically hold a bachelor's degree in food science, nutrition, culinary arts, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of food safety, product formulation, and laboratory techniques, which are often gained through formal education and internships.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Product Development jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Food Product Development jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Product Development jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Product Development jobs in Virginia are:

Entry Level Food Product Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Product Development job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,409 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Product Development Assistant

Smithfield, VA • On-site

Smithfield Foods, Inc.
See more jobs at Smithfield Foods, Inc.external

$14.42 - $24.04/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.
Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!
THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:
The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section.
As a Production Development Assistant, you will help prepare and produce meat product samples, operate and clean equipment, maintain a safe and organized work area, complete required records, and support product testing and daily operations. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, follows instructions well, and wants to learn about food production in a team-oriented environment.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.
  • Prepare Product Samples: Help make and prepare meat product samples for customers to review. Follow instructions to ensure samples are made correctly and meet quality expectations.
  • Maintain a Clean and Safe Work Area: Keep the pilot plant and work areas clean, organized, and safe. Assist with preparing the facility for visitors and tours.
  • Complete Required Records: Fill out and maintain basic production and quality records accurately.
  • Support Testing and Team Activities: Assist with product testing and share information with team members. Work closely with others to support daily pilot plant operations.

WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
  • High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED) required.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs with no assistance.
  • Ability to plan, organize, prioritize and achieve effective time management.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet established goals and objectives.
  • Acts with a sense of urgency & ability to meet deadlines; self-directed.
  • Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
  • Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities include close vision and ability to adjust focus.
  • Frequently required to stand; sit; walk; use hands handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, and talk or hear

The expected pay range for this position is $14.42 - $24.04 per hour.
Smithfield Foods provides pay ranges that reflect its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the company reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of hire. Individual compensation will be determined based on several factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the role, location of the position, the candidate's qualifications and experience, internal equity, external market pay for comparable positions and budget considerations. At Smithfield Foods, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive total rewards package. Learn more about our benefits package here.
Relocation Package AvailableNo
EEO Information
Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

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