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Entry Level Food Research Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lab37

Research & Development

Los Angeles, CA

Culinary R&D Associate, Robotic Kitchen Product Lab37 Robotics, is a technology company focused on ... Our mission is to revolutionize the food industry by creating innovative robotic solutions that ...

Lab37

Research & Development

Los Angeles, CA

$20 - $28/hr

Culinary R&D Associate, Robotic Kitchen Product Lab37 Robotics, is a technology company focused on ... Our mission is to revolutionize the food industry by creating innovative robotic solutions that ...

Crumbl

Research & Development Chef

Provo, UT · On-site

Under the direction of the Director of Research & Development the R&D Chef will execute daily tasks ... Utah Food Handlers Permit will be needed and we can help with the process if you don't have a UT ...

Crumbl

Research & Development Chef

Provo, UT · On-site

Under the direction of the Director of Research & Development the R&D Chef will execute daily tasks ... Utah Food Handlers Permit will be needed and we can help with the process if you don't have a UT ...

Crumbl

Research & Development Chef

Provo, UT · On-site

Under the direction of the Director of Research & Development the R&D Chef will execute daily tasks ... Utah Food Handlers Permit will be needed and we can help with the process if you don't have a UT ...

Farm To People

Research & Development Chef

New York, NY · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

The position blends real cooking with the business of food: costing, product analytics, and go-to ... R&D workflow and kitchen technology (e.g., Parsley, Combi Oven automated programs) to keep the ...

Kemin

Research & Development Intern

Lenexa, KS · On-site

... cattle R&D studies. The intern will assist with preparation and organization of blood/serum and ... food supply chain for generations to come. We supply over 500 specialty ingredients for various ...

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Entry Level Food Research Development information

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food research development in the United States is $26.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Food Research Development professional, you generally need a background in food science, chemistry, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, sensory analysis tools, and food safety regulations such as HACCP is typically required. Curiosity, attention to detail, and effective team communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, innovative product development and successful collaboration with cross-functional teams in a regulated industry.

What is an entry level food research development job?

Entry level food research development jobs involve assisting in the creation and improvement of food products. People in these roles typically work in laboratories or test kitchens, supporting senior scientists with tasks like conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing ingredients. They help develop new recipes, enhance food safety, and improve the taste, texture, or nutritional value of foods. These positions often require a background in food science or a related field and offer opportunities to learn hands-on research and product development skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Food Research Development vs Food Quality Assurance Technician?

AspectEntry Level Food Research DevelopmentFood Quality Assurance Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Food Science, Nutrition, or related fieldBachelor's in Food Science, Microbiology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D facilities, product development settingsManufacturing plants, quality control labs, production lines
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, R&D departments, product innovation teamsFood manufacturing, processing plants, quality assurance departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles require a background in food science and involve working within the food industry, Entry Level Food Research Development focuses on creating and testing new products in labs, whereas Food Quality Assurance Technicians primarily ensure existing products meet quality and safety standards on production lines.

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

Entry-level professionals in Food Research and Development often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced project timelines, balancing creativity with strict food safety regulations, and learning to work effectively within cross-functional teams. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, seek guidance from experienced colleagues, and proactively communicate any uncertainties. Embracing continuous learning, especially about new ingredients and technologies, also helps in building confidence and contributing more effectively to innovative product development.
More about Entry Level Food Research Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Food Research Development jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level 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:
What states have the most Entry Level Food Research Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Food Research Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Research Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Research Development jobs are:
Entry Level Food Research Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Research Development job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,192 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Research & Development

Lab37

Los Angeles, CA

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Culinary R&D Associate, Robotic Kitchen Product

Lab37 Robotics, is a technology company focused on the development and deployment of robots designed specifically for direct-to-customer food production. Our mission is to revolutionize the food industry by creating innovative robotic solutions that enhance efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction. We are passionate about pushing the boundaries of technology to deliver cutting-edge products that meet the evolving needs of our clients.


Role Overview

You are the hands-on engine supporting our culinary R&D team. In this role, you will work directly under our senior chefs to help bring new brands and menu concepts to life. You will assist in translating brand briefs into tangible food components through rigorous recipe testing and operational support. This is a unique opportunity to learn the culinary roadmap of a digital-first dining business and gain experience in how recipes are developed, and scaled for robotic food production. You’ll be a vital part of the pipeline from initial testing to launch execution.

Responsibilities
  • Assist in the execution of the culinary roadmap by prepping for and supporting new brand and LTO development trials
  • Support the R&D pipeline through daily preparation of ingredients and components for testing
  • Execute recipe tests under the direction of R&D chefs, ensuring precise adherence to trial parameters
  • Maintain a rigorously organized kitchen and R&D workspace to ensure efficient testing cycles
  • Assist in collecting and documenting data during production-scale validation, including yield and weight measurements
  • Update prep task libraries and order guides as directed by the culinary team
  • Conduct ingredient quality checks and assist in receiving supplier deliveries for the R&D lab
  • Maintain the physical component library, ensuring all samples are properly labeled and stored
  • Upkeep elite standards for sanitation, organization, and food safety (HACCP) within the R&D kitchen
  • Partner with the broader team to support kitchen training and launch execution for new menu items
Qualifications
  • Strong culinary foundation (culinary school or 1-2 years of high-volume kitchen experience preferred)
  • Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to precision in following recipes and instructions
  • Extreme eagerness to learn R&D processes and the intersection of food and technology
  • Reliable and highly organized; you thrive in a fast-paced environment and keep your station immaculate
  • Passion for food innovation and a desire to contribute to a forward-thinking culinary team
  • Basic understanding of kitchen math, weight measurements (grams), and data recording
  • Strong communication skills and a team-first attitude
Additional Information

Our work environment is fast-paced and dynamic, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and fulfilling work. We believe that a stimulating and enjoyable workplace is key to driving innovation and achieving excellence. At Lab37 Robotics, every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of food production, and we are committed to supporting our employees’ growth and success.

Join us at Lab37 Robotics and be a part of a forward-thinking company that’s transforming the way the world approaches food production.

Apply