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Food Product Development Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ocean Spray

Product Development Scientist

Lakeville, MA · On-site

$59K - $74K/yr

Food Science Foundation/Strong Technical Acumen. * Ability to apply scientific principles to research and creative problem solving * 3+ years in product development * Ability to work in various ...

Balchem

Product Development Scientist

Bridgeton, MO

The Food Scientist position will leverage scientific training and industrial experience to develop ... Drive the conceptualization, development, and commercialization of new products * Support cross ...

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Food Product Development Scientist information

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$46K

$82.7K

$120.5K

How much do food product development scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for food product development scientist in the United States is $82,657.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $94,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by food product development scientists when launching new products?

Food Product Development Scientists often encounter challenges such as meeting strict regulatory requirements, ensuring product consistency across large-scale production, and balancing taste, texture, and nutritional profiles. Additionally, they must collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including marketing, quality assurance, and supply chain—to address potential issues like ingredient sourcing and shelf-life stability. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication with various stakeholders throughout the development process.

What is the difference between Food Product Development Scientist vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Product Development ScientistFood Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science or related fieldBachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development teams, innovation centersManufacturing facilities, quality control labs, production lines
Industry UsageDevelops new products, improves formulations, conducts sensory testingEnsures product safety, quality, and compliance, supports production processes

Food Product Development Scientists focus on creating and refining new food products through research and experimentation, often working in R&D labs. Food Technologists primarily ensure product safety, quality, and compliance during manufacturing. Both roles are essential in the food industry but differ in their core responsibilities and work settings.

How to become a food product development scientist?

To become a food product development scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, or a related field is required, often followed by experience in food formulation and testing. Skills in laboratory techniques, food safety regulations, and product innovation are essential, and advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions helps build practical knowledge in food development processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food product development scientist?

A Food Product Development Scientist typically needs a degree in food science, chemistry, or a related field, with strong knowledge of ingredient functionality and food safety regulations. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, sensory analysis tools, and formulation software like Genesis R&D is often required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help drive innovation and successful collaboration between departments. These competencies are crucial to developing safe, appealing, and commercially viable food products that meet consumer and regulatory standards.

What does a food product development scientist do?

A Food Product Development Scientist is responsible for creating and improving food products, ensuring they are safe, nutritious, and appealing to consumers. They work on formulating new recipes, testing ingredients, and optimizing manufacturing processes to meet quality and regulatory standards. Their role often involves collaborating with marketing, production, and quality assurance teams to bring innovative food products from concept to market. They also stay updated on food trends, consumer preferences, and advances in food science technology.

Is there a demand for food product development scientists?

Food product development scientists are in steady demand as the food industry seeks innovation and new product offerings. They often work in research and development departments, utilizing skills in food science, sensory analysis, and product formulation, with employment opportunities available in manufacturing, packaging, and quality assurance sectors.
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Food Product Development Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Product Development Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,657 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Food Product Development Scientist

Sunrise Systems, Inc.

East Hanover, NJ • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: R&D Product Developer

Location: East Hanover, NJ, 07936

Duration: 12 months on W2 Contract


Job Description

  • Experienced in Food Industry Manufacturing environment(Preferred in Biscuit Snacking), with knowledge in ingredient functionality & commercialization
  • Minimum: BS in Food Science with 3-5 years of experience
  • Travel: 25-40%
  • Anti-Slip / Steel toed shoes are a requirement for this position


Day-to-day Activities:

  • Work independently and with a cross-functional team to plan, lead and coordinate technical projects in line with R&D, regulatory, marketing and manufacturing requirements.
  • Effectively communicate status & risks and plan, lead, & coordinate pilot plant and factory trials in accordance with good manufacturing practice and HACCP requirements.
  • Plan, lead, & coordinate development activities (e.g. product shelf-life testing, designing for quality, consumer test preparation. etc.).


This candidate will be co-leading this project with the HM so interacting with senior Client leaders and suppliers. Pilot plant / trials work ( ingredient troubleshooting) is a huge plus.

Apply