ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Food Packaging Research Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field * 3-6 years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

At Kinder's, we're passionate about creating food that brings people together. The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

At Kinder's, we're passionate about creating food that brings people together. The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved ...

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field * 3-6 years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

At Kinder's, we're passionate about creating food that brings people together. The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

At Kinder's, we're passionate about creating food that brings people together. The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved ...

Work For Warriors Georgia

R&D Packaging Co-Op

Albany, GA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

We are PepsiCo PepsiCo is a global food and beverage leader operating in more than 200 countries ... Research & Benchmarking studies to identify "white space" for future packaging development ...

Work For Warriors Georgia

R&D Packaging Co-Op

Albany, GA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

We are PepsiCo PepsiCo is a global food and beverage leader operating in more than 200 countries ... Research & Benchmarking studies to identify "white space" for future packaging development ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFood Packaging Research Development Jobs

Food Packaging Research Development information

See salary details

$48.5K

$101.8K

$165K

How much do food packaging research development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for food packaging research development in the United States is $101,794.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Food Packaging Research Development vs Food Packaging Technologist?

AspectFood Packaging Research DevelopmentFood Packaging Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Food Science, Packaging Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's degree in Food Science, Packaging Technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, development centers, innovation departmentsManufacturing facilities, quality control labs, production lines
Industry UsageFocus on developing new packaging materials and methodsImplementing packaging solutions, quality testing, and process optimization

Food Packaging Research Development involves creating and testing new packaging materials and designs, often in a lab setting. In contrast, Food Packaging Technologists focus on applying existing packaging solutions in production, ensuring quality, and optimizing processes. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their primary focus and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Packaging Research and Development professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in Food Packaging Research and Development, you need a background in food science, materials engineering, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with packaging design software, laboratory testing equipment, and knowledge of regulatory standards such as FDA or ISO is typically required. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and cross-functional communication skills help you innovate and collaborate effectively. These abilities are crucial to creating safe, sustainable, and market-ready packaging solutions that meet industry and consumer needs.

What are the typical challenges faced when developing new food packaging solutions, and how can I expect to collaborate with other departments?

In Food Packaging Research Development, a common challenge is balancing innovative design with cost, sustainability, and compliance with food safety regulations. You'll often work closely with cross-functional teams, including product development, quality assurance, marketing, and supply chain, to ensure packaging meets both functional and branding requirements. Effective communication is key, as you'll need to present your ideas, gather feedback, and integrate diverse perspectives into your solutions. Expect to participate in regular meetings, prototype testing, and troubleshooting sessions as part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

What is Food Packaging Research Development?

Food Packaging Research Development involves creating, testing, and improving packaging materials and techniques to ensure food safety, extend shelf life, and enhance consumer convenience. Professionals in this field work on developing innovative packaging solutions that address sustainability, regulatory requirements, and market trends. Their work often includes collaborating with engineers, scientists, and manufacturers to bring new packaging concepts from the lab to large-scale production.
Infographic showing various Food Packaging Research Development job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,794 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

O Positiv

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Your Role

The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product development for both new product initiatives and portfolio maintenance efforts that accelerate O Positiv's growth. You will be part of the creation of OP's rapidly growing product line and new offerings in women's health, wellness and more.

The ideal candidate is an individual with a strong scientific research background, a high level of organization among competing priorities, and a natural curiosity with a willingness to learn. The Research & Development Manager will report to the Director of Product Development and will work cross functionally with internal and external stakeholders to support innovation and execution of O Positiv's product roadmap.

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Bring innovative and differentiated products from concept to market that support our core customers' health goals and align with O Positiv's commitments / standards
  • Conduct ingredient research / literature reviews; identify novel ingredients and formats to explore / evaluate for product feasibility
  • Stay up to date to new trends in ingredients (vitamins, minerals, herbs, etc.) relevant to OP's product roadmap and concept designs
  • Substantiate claims by composing comprehensive summaries of clinical research that support product claims
  • Manage project coordination in tracking, expediting, and facilitating the progress of each product's development through the product's launch date
  • Assist with the artwork development process to proof and ensure proper routing and compliance to regulatory requirements
  • Provide scientific support on marketing campaigns, landing pages, and other customer-facing literature
  • Provide feedback on samples submissions and ensure formulations meet OP's specifications, are efficacious and fall within budget requirements
  • Support the reformulation of existing products to ensure products continue to be differentiated and meet marketing and customer expectations

Qualifications and Skills

  • Experience:
    • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience in Science (e.g. Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field
    • 3-6 years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the functional foods, supplements, or skincare industry
    • Exceptional expertise in technical research including ingredient pathology, project management, and vendor relationship management
  •  Interpersonal:
    • Strong leadership & communication skills: listen, mentor, and teach by example
    • Thrives in fast-paced environments
    • Strong project management and prioritization skills
    • Ability to manage multiple moving pieces and lead different groups of individuals
    • Adaptable to new technology and innovations
    • Thoughtful and self-reflective, willingness to learn and adapt
    • Team-player, hard-working, organized, and goal-oriented
    • Excitement for startups and building from the ground up

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Hours and Compensation

The anticipated base compensation range for this role will be $135,000 - $165,000 annually. Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and local market rates. 

  • Job Type: Full-time 
  • Pay based on prior experience
  • Position will be based out of Santa Monica, Los Angeles - in person (Mon-Thurs in office/Friday remote 

 Benefits & Perks

  • Flexible PTO, Sick Days, and Wellness Days
  • Monthly Social Hours
  • Medical, Vision, and Dental Coverage
  • 401K with matching
  • $50/month Fitness Reimbursement + Up to $1,800 in annual wellness benefits
  • An environment of collaboration, high performance, & respect amongst all employees and managers

Apply