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Food Chemistry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kalsec, Inc.

Senior Scientist - Color Innovation

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$86K - $118K/yr

This role combines strong food chemistry expertise with hands-on product development to create stable, vibrant, and regulatory-compliant color solutions. The position leads formulation, experimental ...

Talnt

Food Scientist

Akron, OH · On-site

$70K - $95K/hr

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Nutrition, or another related scientific discipline. * Minimum of 5 years of Research & Development ...

Kemin

Associate Scientist - Food Science

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Working alongside microbiologists, chemists and processing engineers, this individual will anchor the team with food science and industry expertise and help drive clean-label, affordable ingredient ...

McClancy Foods & Flavors

Food Scientist

Fort Mill, SC · On-site

Knowledge of food chemistry, ingredient functionality, food processing, and sensory science. * Experience conducting product trials and commercial scale-up activities. * Experience with seasonings ...

Conflux Systems

Food Chemist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

We are seeking a Chemistry Laboratory Analyst to perform advanced analytical testing on raw materials, intermediates, beverage components, finished products, auxiliary materials, and water samples.

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Food Chemistry information

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How much do food chemistry jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for food chemistry in the United States is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is food chemistry?

Food chemistry is the study of the chemical processes and interactions of all biological and non-biological components of foods. It involves analyzing the composition, structure, and properties of food substances, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Food chemists work to understand how these components interact during processing, storage, and preparation, and how they affect the flavor, texture, nutritional value, and safety of food. This field plays a crucial role in developing new food products, improving food quality, and ensuring food safety.

What are some typical challenges faced by food chemists when developing new food products?

Food chemists often encounter challenges such as ensuring product safety and stability while maintaining desired taste, texture, and nutritional value. Balancing regulatory compliance, ingredient sourcing, and cost-effectiveness can also be complex. Additionally, food chemists must collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including quality assurance, production, and marketing—to address formulation issues and scale up successful prototypes into mass production. Staying updated with emerging technologies and changing consumer preferences is essential for continuous innovation in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food chemist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Chemist, you generally need a strong background in chemistry, biology, and food science, often supported by a bachelor's or advanced degree in these fields. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical techniques like HPLC or GC, and food safety regulations is essential, and certifications such as HACCP can be beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with teams and interpreting complex data. These skills ensure accurate analysis, product safety, and innovation in food development and quality control.

What is the difference between Food Chemistry vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Chemistry
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Food Science, Chemistry, or related fields; certifications like Certified Food Scientist
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, food manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, research institutions, regulatory agencies
Common Search & ComparisonFood Chemistry vs Food Technologist

Food Chemistry focuses on analyzing and understanding the chemical composition of food, including additives, nutrients, and contaminants. Food Technologists develop, improve, and oversee food products and processes. While both roles work within the food industry and may share similar credentials, Food Chemistry emphasizes chemical analysis, whereas Food Technologists focus on product development and manufacturing processes.

Are food chemists in demand?

Food chemists are in demand due to the growing focus on food safety, quality, and innovation in the food industry. They often work in research labs, manufacturing, and quality assurance, requiring knowledge of analytical techniques and food regulations. Employment prospects are generally favorable for those with relevant education and skills in food analysis and product development.

What careers use food chemistry?

Food chemistry is used in careers such as food scientist, quality control analyst, product development scientist, and regulatory affairs specialist. These roles involve analyzing food components, developing new products, ensuring safety standards, and improving food quality using laboratory techniques and chemical analysis tools.

What degree is needed to be a food chemist?

A food chemist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or Ph.D., along with laboratory skills and knowledge of food safety regulations.

What is the job of a food chemist?

A food chemist studies the chemical composition and properties of food ingredients to improve safety, quality, and shelf life. They analyze food samples using laboratory techniques and develop new food products or processes, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, food science, and laboratory equipment. Their work supports food safety regulations and product innovation.
More about Food Chemistry jobs

What cities are hiring for Food Chemistry jobs?

Cities with the most Food Chemistry job openings:

What states have the most Food Chemistry jobs?

States with the most job openings for Food Chemistry jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Food Chemistry jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Chemistry jobs are:

Food Chemistry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Chemistry job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,292 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Senior Scientist - Color Innovation

Kalsec Inc.

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

The Senior Scientist – Color Innovation is responsible for the development and application of natural color systems across a wide range of food and beverage applications. This role combines strong food chemistry expertise with hands‑on product development to create stable, vibrant, and regulatory‑compliant color solutions.

The position leads formulation, experimental design, and application activities, translating scientific understanding of pigments, degradation pathways, and matrix interactions into commercially viable solutions. This role plays a critical part in advancing natural color technologies and supporting customer‑driven innovation.

  • Lead the development of natural color systems for food and beverage applications for key customers, with a focus on stability, performance, and scalability
  • Apply color systems in food formulations and contribute to product development across savory systems (snacks, meat systems, sauces, dressings, breads/batters, and related demo kits), as well as confectionery, dairy, and beverage applications
  • Apply food chemistry principles (pH, oxidation, light/heat stability, ingredient interactions) to optimize color performance across different matrices
  • Design and execute experiments related to pigment behavior, extraction, stabilization, formulation, and processing
  • Apply technical and functional knowledge to design experiments and independently execute work across multiple projects and sub‑projects in parallel
  • Evaluate color stability and shelf life across different product matrices and processing conditions
  • Conduct analytical and stability testing (spectrophotometry, color measurement, degradation studies) and interpret results to guide development decisions
  • Translate laboratory findings into prototype formulations and application‑ready solutions
  • Support customer and internal projects, including troubleshooting color performance issues and recommending practical solutions
  • Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (Processing, Quality, Regulatory, Commercial) to support scale‑up and commercialization
  • Contribute to development of new technologies, processes, and potential intellectual property
  • Stay current on industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies in natural colors and food ingredients
  • Prepare and communicate technical findings through reports, presentations, and project updates
  • Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements
Qualifications
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Food Science, Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, or related scientific field
  • 2‑5 years of experience in natural colors or related areas
  • Experience in food R&D with demonstrated work in product development, ingredient functionality, or new product development
  • Strong knowledge of food chemistry and ingredient interactions
  • Hands‑on laboratory experience including formulation, extraction, and analytical testing
  • Ability to translate scientific data into practical, application‑focused solutions
  • Strong experimental design, data analysis, and problem‑solving skills
  • Direct experience with natural colors, including anthocyanins, carotenoids, turmeric, spirulina, betanin, and related pigments
  • Understanding of mechanisms affecting color stability, including oxidation, pH effects, heat and light degradation, and metal interactions
  • Experience in new product development, formulation development, and troubleshooting within real food systems
  • Familiarity with ingredient labeling, regulatory considerations, and clean‑label trends
Working Conditions
  • Laboratory‑based role involving work with liquids, powders, solvents, and food systems and processing
  • Standing and laboratory work required for extended periods
  • Occasional travel (up to 10%) as needed

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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.

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About Kalsec

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Kalamazoo, MI, US

Year founded

1958

Social media

Twitter

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