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Food Engineering Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SUMMARY Our jobs aren't just about putting food on the table that our guests will enjoy ... brand's unique programming to life. We want our associates to embrace their own well-being ...

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POSITION SUMMARY Our jobs aren't just about putting food on the table that our guests will enjoy ... brand's unique programming to life. We want our associates to embrace their own well-being ...

New

Ensures member, resident, and guest satisfaction through creative programming and offerings, while balancing revenue production and the bottom-line financial performance of the assigned Food and ...

Ensures member, resident, and guest satisfaction through creative programming and offerings, while balancing revenue production and the bottom-line financial performance of the assigned Food and ...

Engineering Technician

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Engineering technicians have a wide range of hands-on duties, including, Part processing and ... food and pharma, photonics and life sciences. At Enpro, we believe that diversity drives innovation ...

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Food Engineering information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$46.2K

$145.8K

$172.8K

How much do food engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for food engineering in Phoenix, AZ is $145,827.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,700.00 and $171,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is food engineering?

Food engineering is a multidisciplinary field that combines principles of engineering, biology, and physical sciences to develop processes and systems for the production, processing, packaging, and distribution of food. Food engineers work to improve food quality, safety, and sustainability by designing equipment, optimizing manufacturing methods, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Their work is essential for mass-producing food products efficiently while maintaining nutritional value and taste.

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

To thrive as a Food Engineer, you need a solid background in food science, chemical engineering, and process design, typically supported by a degree in food engineering or a related field. Familiarity with food processing equipment, quality control systems, and regulatory compliance tools—such as HACCP certification and CAD software—is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork set top performers apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are essential for developing safe, efficient, and innovative food processing solutions that meet industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by food engineers when working on product development teams?

Food engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing product innovation with food safety regulations, optimizing production processes for efficiency, and ensuring consistent product quality. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—including food scientists, quality assurance, and marketing—requires effective communication to align technical constraints with business goals. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing consumer preferences and integrating sustainable practices into production can present ongoing challenges in this role.

What is the difference between Food Engineering vs Food Science?

AspectFood EngineeringFood Science
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in Food Science, Chemistry, or related fields
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, R&D labs, process designLaboratories, research facilities, quality control
Industry UsageDesigning food processing systems, optimizing productionDeveloping new food products, analyzing food properties
Common Search/ComparisonFood Engineering vs Food Science

Food Engineering focuses on designing and optimizing food processing systems and manufacturing processes, while Food Science emphasizes developing new food products and analyzing food properties. Both roles often overlap but serve distinct functions within the food industry.

Are food engineers in high demand?

Food engineering is a growing field with steady demand due to the need for food safety, quality control, and innovative processing techniques. Employment opportunities are available in manufacturing, research, and quality assurance sectors, often requiring knowledge of food science, engineering principles, and relevant certifications.

What do food engineers do?

Food engineers develop and improve processes for manufacturing, processing, and packaging food products. They apply principles of engineering, microbiology, and chemistry to ensure food safety, quality, and efficiency, often working with equipment, automation, and quality control systems.

What are popular job titles related to Food Engineering jobs in Phoenix, AZ?

For Food Engineering jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Food Engineering jobs?

Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Food Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Engineering job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,827 per year, or $70.1 per hour.

Product Development Specialist

Lehi Valley Trading Company

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

 

JOB LOCATION:

 On site at 4955 E McKellips Rd, Mesa, Arizona 85215


JOB SUMMARY:

The Product Development Specialist is responsible for developing and commercializing innovative food products from concept through production. This person works directly with the Development Team to produce, taste test, and revise recipes until product meets with satisfaction internally. Broader sampling will then be conducted to ensure market acceptance. 


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Meet with Development team on target items and develop a project list and timelines for approval.
  • Plan, develop, and manage those development projects from concept through commercialization.
  • The categories to be working on are popcorn, corn puffs, granola, and snack mixes. 
  • Go to lehivalley.com to familiarize yourself with current products.
  • Develop and refine product formulations to achieve desired taste, texture, appearance, shelf life, and cost objectives working in production area and kitchen with the team.
  • Convert laboratory and pilot-scale recipes into full-scale recipes and processes that align with plant capabilities. 
  • Recommend and work with team on process improvements before launch. 
  • Conduct product testing, evaluations, and sensory analysis.
  • Ensure all products comply with food safety, quality, regulatory, and labeling requirements.
  • Maintain accurate documentation, formulations, specifications, and project records.
  • Monitor project timelines and communicate progress to Development. 
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to product quality, efficiency, and cost reduction.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:


REQUIRED

  • 5+ years of hands-on product development and commercialization experience in a manufacturing environment with Development team members. 
  • Strong working knowledge of ingredient functionality, food chemistry, thermal processing, pH, emulsions, and shelf-life stability.
  • Bachelor’s degree in food science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Experience developing products from concept through commercialization.
  • Knowledge of food processing equipment and manufacturing operations.
  • Ability to scale recipes from bench-top or pilot batches to full-scale production.
  • Strong project management and organizational skills.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
  • Valid Food Handler Card or the ability to obtain one upon hire.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends, to support plant trials and production schedules.

PREFERRED

  • Experience with confectionery, popcorn, granola, snack foods, or related products.
  • Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), HACCP, and food safety standards.
  • Experience working in SQF or GFSI-certified manufacturing environments.
  • Familiarity with ingredient functionality, nutritional labeling, and regulatory compliance.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods in a manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to lift twenty-five pounds occasionally.
  • Ability to work in hot, cold, and noisy production environments.
  • Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).