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Fda Food Science Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

... science, or biological sciences that provide the background needed to serve in a technical capacity to the Agency with regard to food standards of identity, allergens and labeling. * Knowledge of FDA ...

Scientific background in analytical chemistry, chemical engineering, or microbiology (strongly preferred) * Prior experience at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a plus * Exceptional research ...

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Fda Food Science information

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$13

$25

$38

How much do fda food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for fda food science in Washington is $25.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $32.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an FDA food scientist, and why are they important?

To excel as an FDA Food Scientist, you need a strong background in food science, biology, chemistry, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical techniques, and FDA regulatory databases or documentation systems is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data, writing reports, and collaborating across agencies. These skills ensure food safety, regulatory compliance, and the protection of public health.

What careers can you get with an FDA food science degree?

An FDA food science degree prepares individuals for careers such as food safety specialist, quality assurance manager, regulatory affairs analyst, or food scientist. These roles involve ensuring compliance with safety standards, conducting product testing, and developing new food products, often requiring knowledge of food regulations, laboratory skills, and attention to detail.

What is FDA food science?

FDA food science refers to the study and application of scientific principles to ensure the safety, quality, and labeling of food products regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Professionals in this field may work on developing new food products, testing for contaminants, or ensuring that foods meet federal standards. They play a critical role in protecting public health by evaluating food additives, inspecting facilities, and reviewing research data. Their work helps to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensures that the food supply is safe and accurately labeled.

What are some common collaborative projects for FDA food scientists, and how do they typically work with other departments?

FDA food scientists often work on multidisciplinary teams that include microbiologists, chemists, regulatory affairs specialists, and public health officials. Collaborative projects may involve developing new food safety guidelines, investigating foodborne illness outbreaks, or evaluating new food additives. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as food scientists must interpret scientific data and ensure regulatory compliance while coordinating efforts with colleagues from different backgrounds. This collaboration enhances both the scientific rigor and the practical impact of FDA food safety initiatives.

What is the difference between Fda Food Science vs Fda Food Safety Specialist?

AspectFda Food ScienceFda Food Safety Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or related field; certifications like HACCP often preferredBachelor's degree in Food Safety, Public Health, or related; certifications like ServSafe or HACCP common
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, product development settingsInspection sites, regulatory agencies, food manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, research institutions, government agenciesRegulatory agencies, food production companies, consulting firms

Fda Food Science focuses on developing and improving food products through scientific research, while Fda Food Safety Specialists primarily ensure compliance with safety standards through inspections and enforcement. Both roles require related credentials and work within the food industry, but their core responsibilities differ in research versus safety enforcement.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Fda Food Science jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Fda Food Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Fda Food Science job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,205 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Regulatory Infant Food Scientist

Guidehouse

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

$98K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Guidehouse rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

Job Family:
Scientist
Travel Required:
Up to 10%
Clearance Required:
Ability to Obtain Public Trust
This position will aid our federal client's public health risk and/or safety assessments of infant formula submissions by providing consultation to staff on new requirements under the Infant Formula Final Rule and collaborating with regulatory staff to provide guidance to industry with regards to the accurate performance of the PER under the new regulations.
What You Will Do:
  • Provide consultive services to staff on the new Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) requirements and other chemistry-specific areas of an infant formula notification.
  • In close coordination with the Infant Formula Premarket Review Staff:

• Evaluate analytical methods and protein quality issues;
• Evaluations of infant formula notification requests for additional data and information regarding protein efficiency assays and bioassays for determination of protein quality in complex infant formula matrices;
• Develop draft guidance for conduct and evaluation of protein efficiency ratio and growth monitoring studies in infant formula submissions;
• Respond to and/or meet with industry with regards to the accurate performance of the Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) requirements under the new Infant Formula Regulation.
  • Contribute to the development of research projects, including new methods, aligned with the Human Food Program (HFP) Nutrition Strategic Plan.
  • Provide guidance to staff, as needed, on preparation of Research Scientist Peer Review packages for promotion.
  • Work with staff on the preparation of single and multi-laboratory validation protocols, and review and evaluation of data from method development projects, and single and multi-laboratory validation studies
  • Draft public health risk reports and safety assessments to support FDA risk communication and compliance efforts.
  • Work closely with the Project Officer throughout the project; provide project updates, monthly status reports and risk/issue resolution support.

What You Will Need:
  • Master's or PhD in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Food Science, Pharmacology, or a closely related field is required.
  • 6-8 years of experience specialization in Protein Chemistry, Bioavailability, Nutritional Biochemistry and Food Science.
  • Extensive experience in food ingredient safety assessment, risk evaluation, validation studies and regulatory compliance (e.g. FDA, PER Studies, food additives).
  • Experience with regulatory submissions, risk prioritization, and public health risk reporting.
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct literature reviews, analyze scientific data, methods, and synthesize findings for regulatory impacts and publications.
  • Strong project management and technical writing skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Hybrid role requiring the ability to work onsite at the client location in Silver Spring, MD.

What Would Be Nice To Have:
  • Prior experience supporting FDA, USDA, or other regulatory agencies on infant nutrition and food additive safety projects.
  • Familiarity with international food safety standards and regulatory authorities (JECFA, EFSA, Health Canada, FSANZ).
  • Experience presenting scientific findings to regulatory agencies and at professional conferences.

The annual salary range for this position is $98,000.00-$163,000.00. Compensation decisions depend on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, security clearances, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.
What We Offer:
Guidehouse offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects our commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Benefits include:
  • Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
  • Parental Leave
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Group Term Life and Travel Assistance
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Health Savings Account, Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Transit and Parking Commuter Benefits
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development, Certifications & Learning Opportunities
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
  • Care.com annual membership
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Supplemental Benefits via Corestream (Critical Care, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, Legal Assistance and ID theft protection, etc.)
  • Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus

About Guidehouse
Guidehouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer-Protected Veterans, Individuals with Disabilities or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.
Guidehouse will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law or ordinance including the Fair Chance Ordinance of Los Angeles and San Francisco.
If you have visited our website for information about employment opportunities, or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Guidehouse Recruiting at 1-571-633-1711 or via email at RecruitingAccommodation@guidehouse.com. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodation.
All communication regarding recruitment for a Guidehouse position will be sent from Guidehouse email domains including @guidehouse.com or guidehouse@myworkday.com. Correspondence received by an applicant from any other domain should be considered unauthorized and will not be honored by Guidehouse. Note that Guidehouse will never charge a fee or require a money transfer at any stage of the recruitment process and does not collect fees from educational institutions for participation in a recruitment event. Never provide your banking information to a third party purporting to need that information to proceed in the hiring process.
If any person or organization demands money related to a job opportunity with Guidehouse, please report the matter to Guidehouse's Ethics Hotline. If you want to check the validity of correspondence you have received, please contact recruiting@guidehouse.com. Guidehouse is not responsible for losses incurred (monetary or otherwise) from an applicant's dealings with unauthorized third parties.
Guidehouse does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Guidehouse and Guidehouse will not be obligated to pay a placement fee.

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