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Food Process Engineering Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

R&D Food Scientist

Aurora, CO · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Develop process specifications, ensuring training and transfer of specification knowledge to QA and ... Degree in Food Science / Food Engineering with a strong functional Baking Science background ...

... food & beverage, and water processing, we bring deep technical expertise to every project. Our ... In this role the manager will work closely with the engineering team and with sales management to ...

... food & beverage, and water processing, we bring deep technical expertise to every project. Our ... Director of Engineering Collaborates with: Materials Team, Sales Team, Engineering Team, Operations ...

... food & beverage, and water processing, we bring deep technical expertise to every project. Our ... Director of Engineering Collaborates with: Materials Team, Sales Team, Engineering Team, Operations ...

From architecture, aviation, food/beverage processing, and federal to transportation, water ... Mead & Hunt, an award-winning national architecture and engineering firm, has continued to exceed ...

From architecture, aviation, food/beverage processing, and federal to transportation, water ... Mead & Hunt, an award-winning national architecture and engineering firm, has continued to exceed ...

... such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, and pet food. With over 50 years of excellence, we ... Collaborate closely with engineering and project teams to craft tailored solutions. * Manage all ...

Showing results 41-60

Food Process Engineering information

See Denver, CO salary details

$50.9K

$94.7K

$146.7K

How much do food process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for food process engineering in Denver, CO is $94,712.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,700.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is food process engineering?

Food process engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on designing and optimizing processes used in the production, processing, packaging, and distribution of food. It combines principles of chemical, mechanical, and biological engineering to ensure food safety, quality, efficiency, and sustainability. Food process engineers work on developing new food products, improving existing manufacturing processes, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Their work is essential in scaling up food production from small batches to large-scale industrial operations.

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

To thrive as a Food Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, mechanical, or food engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with process simulation software, food safety regulations, and quality management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial to ensure efficient, safe, and innovative food production processes that meet industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by food process engineers when scaling up production from pilot to full-scale manufacturing?

Food process engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining product consistency, ensuring food safety, and optimizing process efficiency when transitioning from pilot-scale to full-scale production. Equipment differences, ingredient variability, and changes in processing conditions can affect texture, flavor, and shelf life. Close collaboration with quality assurance, R&D, and production teams is essential to address these challenges and implement effective solutions that uphold product standards and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Food Process Engineering vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Process EngineerFood Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Food Engineering or related field; often requires engineering licensureBachelor's or Master's in Food Science or Technology; certifications like CFTech are common
Work EnvironmentDesigning and optimizing food production processes, often in manufacturing plants or R&D labsDeveloping new food products, quality control, and product testing in labs or production facilities
Industry UsageUsed in process design, equipment selection, and process improvement within food manufacturingFocuses on product development, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance

Food Process Engineers primarily focus on designing and improving food production processes, ensuring efficiency and safety. Food Technologists concentrate on developing new food products and maintaining quality standards. Both roles are essential in the food industry but serve different functions related to process optimization versus product development.

How much do food process engineers make?

Food process engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers or those in managerial roles can earn over $100,000. Skills in process optimization, quality control, and familiarity with manufacturing equipment can influence salary levels.

What is the career of a food process engineer?

A food process engineer designs, develops, and improves manufacturing processes for food products to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency. They work with equipment, automation, and quality control systems in food production facilities, often requiring knowledge of food science, engineering principles, and regulatory standards. Careers in this field typically involve problem-solving, process optimization, and compliance with safety regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Food Process Engineering jobs in Denver, CO?

For Food Process Engineering jobs in Denver, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Food Process Engineering job openings in Denver, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,712 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

R&D Food Scientist

Dessert Holdings Inc.

Aurora, CO • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide project leadership in the development and commercialization of new products, product improvement, and cost savings.

  • Design and execute experiments, analyze data, and make technical recommendations for specific projects.

  • Support operations and QA in resolving ingredient, formula, and process issues, and assist with product and process changes.


Dessert Holdings rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

218th of 444 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

R&D Food Scientist
 

Are you ready to elevate your career in manufacturing operations and be a part of creating the world's best desserts? Dessert Holdings partners with some of North America's most iconic chains to bring people together to celebrate life's sweetest moments! We have an amazing opportunity to join a high-growth organization and pave the way for future career advancement.

Dessert Holdings is looking for a Food Scientist to join our team based in Aurora, CO. This Food Scientist position will ensure new items are built and launched successfully, existing items are documented accurately and act as a liaison between Culinary Team, Production, Sales, Finance, Quality Assurance, and Supply Chain. The Food Scientist needs to analyze data, draw conclusions, communicate results and commercialize products. Will drive technical projects to meet business initiatives focusing on new product development, quality improvement and cost improvement.

The typical hiring range for this role is $70,000 to $90,000 annually and is based on several factors such as education, work experience, skills, certifications, location, etc. In addition to pay, Dessert Holdings offers benefits such as a choice of comprehensive medical plans, dental and vision insurance, paid vacation and holidays, and retirement contribution to all eligible employees.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Provide project leadership in the development in conjunction with the Culinary team and commercialization of new products, product improvement, and cost savings
  • Work on multiple interdisciplinary projects, developing and implementing plans, and coordinate resources to achieve goals.
  • Design and execute experiments, analyze, and interpret data to make sound technical recommendations for specific projects.
  • Develop process specifications, ensuring training and transfer of specification knowledge to QA and Operations.
  • Research and gain thorough understanding and knowledge of emerging technologies in product and ingredient technologies.
  • Support Operations and QA to resolve ingredient, formula, process issues and manage product/process changes.
  • Provide technical support with Culinary team on product information and process capability.
  • Collaboration with cross-functional teams on implementing new products, new equipment or new processes.
  • Provide formula and process specifications on bench working with Culinary team and translating that to on floor processes and support to assure smooth rollouts of new products, equipment and/or processes.
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance the new product development process by; actively participating in and encouraging continuous improvement to enhance our win rate, reduce our costs, improve our new product scale up and expedite our speed to market
     
QUALIFICATIONS:
 
  • Degree in Food Science / Food Engineering with a strong functional Baking Science background bachelor's 0 to 5 years' experience required, with strong preference for internships or co-ops with food manufacturers in lieu of prior industry experience
  • Experience with working on new products through concept, prototyping and commercialization within a manufacturing environment.
  • Recipe / Formulation and raw material knowledge / experience.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Working knowledge of MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel), SharePoint, ERP systems
  • Self-directed with initiative; responsible for managing own projects and ensuring all timelines are met or exceeded
  • Ability/willingness to work off hours or extended amounts of time during product scale ups.
  • Ability/willingness to travel up to 30% of the time.
 

About Dessert Holdings
Dessert Holdings is North America's fastest-growing premium dessert company, bringing unparalleled dessert experiences to both retail and foodservice customers. The company, headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a collection of premium dessert companies and brands: Steven Charles, The Original Cakerie, Lawler's Desserts, Atlanta Cheesecake Company, Dianne's Fine Desserts, and Kenny's Great Pies. Dessert Holdings is owned by Bain Capital, employing more than 3,200 people across nine North American manufacturing facilities.

EEO Statement
Dessert Holdings and its related entities provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristics protected by law. 

 

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