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Food Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Linde

Mechanical Engineer

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$81K - $112K/yr

Mechanical Engineer Burr Ridge, IL, United States req25360 What you will enjoy doing* * In this ... The company serves a variety of end markets such as chemicals & energy, food & beverage ...

fairlife

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

MS in Dairy Science, Food Engineering, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field with a focus on dairy processing and/or thermal processing. * 5-10 years of progressive experience ...

fairlife

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

MS in Dairy Science, Food Engineering, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field with a focus on dairy processing and/or thermal processing. * 5-10 years of progressive experience ...

OFI

Senior Food Scientist

Chicago, IL

$90K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Food Science/Technology, Food Engineering or a related field is required, Master's degree is preferred. * Eight (8) years of experience in food science required beverage industry ...

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All JobsFood Engineer JobsFood Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Food Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$19K

$67.4K

$137.5K

How much do food engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for food engineer in Chicago, IL is $67,439.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,622.00 and $81,087.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food engineer?

A Food Engineer needs a solid background in food science, chemical engineering, and process design, typically acquired through a degree in food engineering or a related discipline. Familiarity with CAD software, process simulation tools, and knowledge of food safety regulations (such as HACCP certification) are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams help distinguish successful Food Engineers. These skills are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and innovative development of food processes and products in a fast-evolving industry.

What does a food engineer do?

A Food Engineer applies principles of engineering, microbiology, and chemistry to develop and improve food products, processing techniques, and packaging. They work to enhance food quality, safety, and shelf life while optimizing production efficiency. Food Engineers collaborate with food scientists and manufacturers to design equipment, improve preservation methods, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. Their work plays a crucial role in making food production safer, more sustainable, and cost-effective.

Are food engineers in high demand?

Food engineers are in growing demand due to the need for improved food safety, quality, and sustainable production methods. They often work in manufacturing plants, research labs, and quality assurance, with employment prospects influenced by advancements in food technology and regulations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Food Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Food Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Food Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Food Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Food Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,439 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Senior Food Scientist

John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.

Elgin, IL • Hybrid

$99K - $136K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

John B. Sanfilippo & Son rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

320th of 438 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

The Senior Food Scientist is responsible for technical project leadership, new product development, product optimization, cost savings initiatives, and quality improvements across JBSS product categories. This role leads the development and commercialization of innovative private-label products, including nuts, trail mixes, snacks, bars, and related products, while partnering closely with internal teams, customers, and suppliers to drive business growth and innovation.

This position is on-site 4 days a week in Elgin, IL.

Functions of the Position:

  • Lead cross-functional product development and commercialization projects from concept through launch, partnering with Engineering, Operations, Packaging, Quality, and other stakeholders to develop and scale consumer-driven products.
  • Collaborate with internal teams, customers, and suppliers to support new product initiatives, sample requests, ingredient sourcing, sensory evaluations, and innovation opportunities.
  • Develop innovative, on-trend products that align with JBSS manufacturing capabilities while supporting cost optimization and value engineering efforts.
  • Support plant trials, production scale-up, and commercialization activities to ensure successful product launches.
  • Maintain product specifications, technical documentation, and R&D records while ensuring compliance with labeling, allergen, certification, and regulatory requirements.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with customers and cross-functional partners to support business objectives and continuous improvement initiatives.

Education, Experience, and Knowledge

  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline required; Master's degree or Ph.D. preferred.
  • Minimum of five years of experience in food industry R&D, product development, or related technical roles; private label experience preferred.
  • Proven track record of technical innovation, consumer-driven product development, and successful commercialization of food products.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional projects, define project scope, influence stakeholders, and drive results from concept through commercialization.
  • Knowledge of food regulations, labeling requirements, and Product Vision software is preferred.
  • Strong technical aptitude with the ability to adapt to changing business needs and priorities.

Skills and Competencies

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Strong project management, organizational, and documentation skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Sales, Operations, Procurement, Quality, and Engineering.

The starting salary range for this position is $99,625-$136,985. The base salary offered will be determined by factors including, but not limited to, experience, credentials, education, certifications, skill level required for the position, the scope of the position, and geographic location. In addition to the base salary, this position is eligible for performance-based incentives subject to the terms of the underlying plan.

Additionally, we provide a comprehensive benefits package that reflects our commitment to support the well-being of our colleagues and their families. This includes health benefits, professional growth support, generous paid time off benefits to support work/life balance, retirement benefits and other programs to support financial wellness. A full listing of our extensive benefits package can be found on our Company website, located here: https://jbssinc.com/careers/

JBSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

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