2

Entry Level Food Research Development Jobs in Seattle, WA

R&D TECHNICIAN

Seattle, WA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

R&D Technician Trident Seafoods is North America's largest vertically integrated seafood harvesting ... Assists Food Scientists and Product Developers with product preparation, prototype development ...

... research. * Knowledge of food and beverage technology, ingredient functionalities, chemistry, or engineering. * Experience with the development and scale-up of food and beverage products.

... positive and food abundant future! Position Details: We are looking for an experienced ... This R&D Scientist will work closely with the Head of Technology to advance Mafix's first ...

New

Sr. Packaging Engineer

Preston, WA · On-site

$165K - $195K/yr

... food safety, quality, and co-manufacturer requirements. * Partnerwith suppliers, co-manufacturers, R&D, Procurement, Quality, Engineering, and other Supply Chain teams to align technical strategy ...

... food. * Research customer preferences and develops a menu which incorporates local foods and ... Participates in the development and implementation of business strategies for the community which ...

Posted today

Executive Chef

Issaquah, WA · On-site

$91K - $95K/yr

... food. * Research customer preferences and develops a menu which incorporates local foods and ... Participates in the development and implementation of business strategies for the community which ...

Posted today

ROLE Entry-Level Quantitative Researchers are responsible for conducting rigorous quantitative ... research process, including idea generation, data analysis, hypothesis development and testing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Food Research Development information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$29

$45

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food research development in Seattle, WA is $29.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $35.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 the most commonly searched types of Food Research Development jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Food Research Development jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Food Research Development jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Entry Level Food Research Development jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Research Development jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Research Development jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Research Development job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,672 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

product development assistant, Food R&D

Starbucks

Seattle, WA • On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Starbucks rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 3,620 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 16 rated cafes


Job description

Now Brewing - product development assistant, Food R&D! #tobeapartner
From the beginning, Starbucks set out to be a different kind of company. One that not only celebrated coffee and the rich tradition, but that also brought a feeling of connection. We are known for developing extraordinary leaders who share this passion and are guided by their service to others.
This is an opportunity to support the team who imagines, develops, commercializes, and optimizes food at Starbucks. In R&D, we aspire to be the indisputable leader in breakthrough innovation. Our mission is to create food and beverage experiences that nurture love, connection, and inspiration for people every day. Come join our team and help create amazing foods that will surprise and delight our customers and make our baristas proud to serve them!
As a Product Development Assistant, you will...
Contribute to Starbucks success by helping product developers with tasks and assessments needed to create and optimize food items. You will support the Culinary and Food R&D team by:
• Handling incoming and outgoing shipments, opening boxes and organizing samples as they arrive
• Monitoring and keeping all the food R&D kitchen and labs organized and stocked as needed for project work.
• Conducting shelf-life studies from storing samples to setting up testing and reporting results to the product developers
• Gathering and reporting analytical data as needed for project work.
• Preparing for and supporting tastings, including product guidance and other sensory tests
• Assisting with presentations and product samplings for leadership as needed
We'd love to hear from people with:
• An associate degree or higher in Food Science, Culinary or other related fields
• Food and beverage preparation experience. Barista experience a plus
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Knowledge of Microsoft office programs
• Basic knowledge of math and science
• Good organizational skills, ability to multi-task.
• Ability to follow direction, seek guidance as necessary and provide regular progress report.
• Ability to communicate clearly, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to deliver excellent customer service with attention to details
• Ability to build positive and effective working relationships with other team members
As a Starbucks partner, you (and your family) will have access to medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, and other voluntary insurance benefits. Partners have access to short-term and long-term disability, paid parental leave, family expansion reimbursement, paid vacation from date of hire*, sick time (accrued at 1 hour for every 25 hours worked), eight paid holidays, and two personal days per year. Starbucks also offers eligible partners participation in a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, a discounted company stock program (S.I.P.), Starbucks equity program (Bean Stock), incentivized emergency savings, and financial well-being tools. Additionally, Starbucks offers 100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor's degree through Arizona State University's online program via the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, student loan management resources, and access to other educational opportunities. You will also have access to backup care and DACA reimbursement. Starbucks will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, and in accordance with its plans and policies. This list is subject to change depending on collective bargaining in locations where partners have a certified bargaining representative. For additional information regarding partner perks and more detailed information about benefits, go to starbucksbenefits.com.
*If you are working in CA, CO, IL, LA, ME, MA, NE, ND or RI, you will accrue vacation up to a maximum of 120 hours (190 in CA) for roles below director and 200 hours (316 in CA) for roles at director or above. For roles in other states, you will be granted vacation time starting at 120 hours annually for roles below director and 200 hours annually for roles director and above.
This role is in-office 5 days a week.
The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and internal equity. At Starbucks, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at the high end of the range for their role, and compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate.
Join us and inspire with every cup. Apply today!
Starbucks Coffee Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with all federal, state and local ordinances.
Starbucks Coffee Company is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at applicantaccommodation@starbucks.com or 1(888) 611-2258.

What Starbucks employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Starbucks logo

About Starbucks

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Starbucks Corporation is an American multinational chain of coffeehouses and roastery reserves. It is one of the largest coffeehouse chains in the world. Starbucks was founded in Seattle, Washington in 1971 by Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker. The company's initial focus was on selling whole coffee beans and coffee-making equipment. Over the years, Starbucks has expanded its operations and become known for its distinctive coffeehouse atmosphere and high-quality coffee products. The company offers a wide range of beverages, including various coffee-based drinks, teas, hot chocolates, and other specialty drinks. Starbucks also serves a variety of food items such as pastries, sandwiches, salads, and snacks. One of the key factors that set Starbucks apart from other coffee chains is its commitment to providing a unique customer experience. Starbucks locations are designed to be comfortable and welcoming, often featuring cozy seating areas and free Wi-Fi access. The company aims to create a "third place" between home and work where customers can relax, socialize, or work while enjoying their favorite beverages. One of the key factors that set Starbucks apart from other coffee chains is its commitment to providing a unique customer experience. Starbucks locations are designed to be comfortable and welcoming, often featuring cozy seating areas and free Wi-Fi access. The company aims to create a "third place" between home and work where customers can relax, socialize, or work while enjoying their favorite beverages. One of the key factors that set Starbucks apart from other coffee chains is its commitment to providing a unique customer experience. Starbucks locations are designed to be comfortable and welcoming, often featuring cozy seating areas and free Wi-Fi access. The company aims to create a "third place" between home and work where customers can relax, socialize, or work while enjoying their favorite beverages. In addition to its traditional coffeehouses, Starbucks has expanded its brand to include different store formats. This includes drive-thru locations, express stores, and even upscale Reserve Roasteries and Reserve Bars that offer a more immersive coffee experience. Starbucks is also known for its ethical sourcing practices. The company has implemented programs such as Coffee and Farmer Equity (C.A.F.E.) Practices, which promote environmentally friendly and socially responsible coffee production. Starbucks has a commitment to ethically sourcing its coffee beans and has made efforts to support sustainable farming practices and improve the livelihoods of coffee farmers. The Starbucks brand has a global presence, with thousands of stores in countries around the world. It has become a symbol of premium coffee and a popular destination for coffee lovers worldwide. The company's success has made it an iconic brand and a significant player in the global coffee industry.

Industry

Food services and drinking places and restaurants

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US