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Food Processing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CookUnity

Food Safety Associate - Part Time

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Experience working in a high compliance food processing facility (USDA, FDA) * Positive and committed to doing the right thing * Experience working with a team in a fast paced environment * Good ...

HiFyve

Field Service Technician

Chicago, IL

$25 - $52/hr

Perform on-site troubleshooting, repair, servicing, installation, and maintenance of industrial food-processing equipment * Install new equipment and ensure systems are fully operational according to ...

Fresh Express

Production Supervisor

Streamwood, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Understanding of food processing, food sanitation, food safety, worker safety and cost savings development.Ensure continual process improvement.Ensure the overall completion of the daily production ...

Fresh Express

Production Supervisor

Streamwood, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Understanding of food processing, food sanitation, food safety, worker safety and cost savings development. * Ensure continual process improvement. * Ensure the overall completion of the daily ...

Fresh Express

Production Supervisor

Streamwood, IL · On-site

Understanding of food processing, food sanitation, food safety, worker safety and cost savings development. * Ensure continual process improvement. * Ensure the overall completion of the daily ...

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All JobsFood Processing JobsFood Processing Jobs in Chicago, IL

Food Processing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do food processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for food processing in Chicago, IL is $15.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is food processing?

Food processing jobs involve the preparation, packaging, and preservation of food products for consumer use. Workers in this field may operate machinery, inspect ingredients, maintain hygiene standards, and ensure that food products meet safety and quality regulations. Positions can range from machine operators and quality control technicians to supervisors and production managers. Food processing is a crucial part of the food supply chain, making sure that products are safe, consistent, and ready for distribution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in food processing?

To thrive in Food Processing, you typically need strong attention to detail, knowledge of food safety standards, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with processing machinery, HACCP certification, and basic computer systems for inventory and quality tracking are often required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in fast-paced production environments. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and consistent production of quality food products while maintaining regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by food processing workers, and how can they be managed on the job?

Food processing workers often face challenges such as maintaining strict hygiene standards, working in environments with temperature controls, and managing repetitive tasks. Adhering to safety protocols and wearing appropriate protective equipment can help minimize risks. Employers typically provide comprehensive training to ensure workers are comfortable with sanitation procedures and machinery operation. Team collaboration and clear communication are also crucial for managing workloads and ensuring efficiency.

What is the difference between Food Processing vs Food Packaging?

AspectFood ProcessingFood Packaging
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in food safety (e.g., HACCP)High school diploma or equivalent; certifications in food safety and packaging standards
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, processing plantsPackaging lines, manufacturing facilities, warehouses
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing companies, processing plantsFood companies, packaging firms, distribution centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Food Processing involves transforming raw ingredients into finished food products through various techniques, while Food Packaging focuses on enclosing and protecting food items for distribution and sale. Both roles are essential in the food industry, often working closely but with distinct responsibilities.

Food Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Processing job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,222 per year, or $16 per hour.

Food Innovation and Product Development Scientist II

The Fresh Factory

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

The Food Innovation and Product Development Scientist II role is responsible for developing a product from ideation through to retail shelves. Responsibilities of this role include reviewing the initial manufacturability, scale-up, formulation, and launch of products produced by The Fresh Factory. This role works on the innovation and commercialization of new products and the renovation of existing products. This person will report to the R&D and Commercialization Manager.
Key Responsibilities:
• Review innovation and line-extension projects at the ideation stage to determine the feasibility of adding a product to the Fresh Factory portfolio.
• Provide technical guidance and execute bench development for targeted development initiatives.
• Lead new product formulation to achieve desired food quality, nutritional, and safety parameters, and cost targets.
• Scale new products to match The Fresh Factory's processing capabilities.
• Understand the requirements of strategic ingredients, products, processes, and packages to support the development of new products.
• Plan, conduct, and coordinate product development plans and trial plans.
• Lead trial runs and sample production of new products.
• Coordinate with the production crew to ensure proper understanding of new products
• Oversee initial full-scale production of new products.
• Other functions involved in the new product launch are not outlined here.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in food processing required with 3-5 years of experience or a Master's degree in food processing with up to 2 years of experience
• Strong technical knowledge of food science and food safety
• Broad understanding of new product innovation from concept to execution
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Ability to work as part of a team and work under ambiguity
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Excel
• Previous experience working in a food processing facility
• Previous experience managing a team, preferred
• Must speak English; Spanish a plus but not required
• Highly organized with a high degree of self-motivation.
Physical Requirements:
• Must be able to read, write, and understand text and instructions
• Being able to taste all the food products (unless there is an allergy)
• Stands most of the day
• Bend/Stoop/Position oneself to move crates of materials
• Works in a cold room up to approximately 35% of the time
• Must wear Personal Protective Equipment
Benefits:
We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and professional growth of our employees, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Voluntary short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid holidays and PTO
  • Continuous learning stipends, including educational budgets and time off for professional development
  • Access to a 401(k) retirement savings plan
  • A culture built on trust, collaboration, and opportunities for growth

JOB CODE: 1000043

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