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Entry Level Food Research Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Microbiologist, R&D

Columbus, IN · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Execute established experimental protocols to support R&D initiatives * Maintain aseptic technique ... or entry-level industry roles acceptable) * Working knowledge of fundamental microbiology ...

R&D Technician II

Emporia, KS

$15 - $20.50/hr

The Research Technician II supports the overall Research & Development program's technical needs ... Industry Experience: Preference for feed ingredient or food processing organization. Minimum ...

R&D Technician II

Emporia, KS · On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

The Research Technician II supports the overall Research & Development program's technical needs ... Industry Experience: Preference for feed ingredient or food processing organization. Minimum ...

Lead product development projects with cross-functional partners Strong technical foundation and a high level of technical curiosity Demonstrates ability to handle multiple projects, and manage ...

Monitor bakery and food trends and customer needs; translate learnings into concepts and prototype options for the R&D pipeline. * Participate in internal sensory evaluations and routine quality ...

SUMMARY Performs a variety of duties relating to Research & Development in a facility specializing ... Knowledge of food ingredient functionality * Ability to read and analyze formulas * Ability to ...

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Entry Level Food Research Development information

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$13

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

As of Jun 27, 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, and why are they important?

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 entry level food research development jobs?

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 professionals in Food Research and Development, 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:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Research Development job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,192 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Research & Development Inventory Technician (Raw Materials)

Innovations in Nutrition + Wellness

Tempe, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

INW Phoenix Formulations focuses on creating strong teams to maintain a friendly and fun work environment while producing the top-quality supplements in the industry. The work is very fast paced and the days fly by. We are looking for people who want to help the company grow and succeed and who take pride in their work and in their team's work.
Summary: Assist in setting up and maintaining an R&D-specific raw material inventory system, ensuring efficient organization, tracking and availability of materials to support all R&D activities. This requires implementing inventory control procedures, coordinating material storage and distribution, and collaborating with R&D teams to meet project needs.
On a typical day, you will: create and drive a strategy for overall quality, compliance, and GMP initiatives throughout the organization via but not limited to the following:
  • Assist in developing and maintaining an R&D raw material inventory process including checking new samples in, storage, and to ensure R&D technicians have the raw materials needed to develop customer-facing project prototypes.
  • Collaborate with DFM Planner and R&D leadership to review upcoming projects to ensure availability of raw materials.
  • Prepares kits for projects by pulling raw materials located in the R&D raw material sample library.
  • Weighs out raw materials needed to complete customer-facing project prototypes in a timely manner.
  • Help manage the R&D inventory including requesting material from our inventory or purchasing department, initiating internal raw material movements, checking samples in and out, monitoring quantities on hand, and expiration dates ensuring the inventory is up to date on a weekly basis at minimum.
  • Assist in creating, updating, and reviewing R&D inventory documentation under the supervision of the R&D Manager.
  • Supports laboratory technicians as needed.
  • Keeps documentation/records of all projects.
  • Maintains a clean and safe laboratory environment.
  • Assist with enforcing food safety programs and procedures, GMP policy, and personnel hygiene policies

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Education - some continuing education preferred.
  • Experience - 1-2 years of laboratory, inventory, or warehouse experience preferred.
  • Language Skills - Must be able to communicate complex concepts in English, verbally and in writing.
  • Computer Skills - Must be able to use Microsoft Office, operate inventory software or other business-related software, management of files and records.
  • Mathematical Skills - Accuracy with arithmetic, subtraction, multiplication, division, decimals, percentages, fractions, and algebra.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Skilled in monitoring time management, following through, serving customers, and active listening.
  • Demonstrate attention to detail, orientation to quality, and problem sensitivity.
  • Ability to multitask across multiple projects while also performing detailed and repetitive tasks.
  • Knowledge of food production processing, basic scientific principles, cGMP's, and how to work safely.

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Must occasionally lift 50 lbs.
  • Regularly required to sit, walk, stand or lift.
  • Specific sensing abilities required by this job include near vision, tasting, and smelling.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

We Offer: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, 401K, Paid Holidays, Paid Vacation, Paid Sick Leave, and more!
Disclaimer: This job description is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties. The responsibilities, tasks, and duties of the job holder might differ from those outlined in this job description and other duties, as assigned, may be part of the job. Employments offers are contingent on successful completion of a drug screen and background check. We are an EEO employer
We look forward to hearing from you!
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.