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Food Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JBT Marel Corporation

Food Research Engineer

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

As our Food Research Engineer, you will be ultimately responsible for providing technical and research assistance in thermal processing of hermetically sealed containers for the purpose of supporting ...

Lancesoft

R&D Scientist

Terre Haute, IN · On-site

Prior pet food R&D experience is highly desirable and preferred. Knowledge and understanding of pet food nutrition and pet food regulations. Strong knowledge of raw materials and ingredients ...

UPSIDE Foods

Food Process Engineer I

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Research & development of food processes for novel food technologies * Plan and execute experiments to optimize product and process, utilizing statistical experiment design when needed. * Source ...

Sugar Bowl Bakery

Associate Food Scientist

Hayward, CA · On-site

As an Associate Food Scientist at Sugar Bowl Bakery, you are responsible for executing product ... Research, Analysis & Costing * Conduct ingredient research and evaluate alternatives to improve ...

Aspen Enterprises LTD

Senior Scientist, R&D

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$88K - $113K/yr

Stay current on new technologies and trends in the food industry * Project Management: Organize and ... Research: Track and evaluate team performance through metrics and provide regular feedback and ...

Aspen Enterprises LTD

Senior Scientist, R&D

Lincoln, RI · On-site

$89K - $114K/yr

Stay current on new technologies and trends in the food industry * Project Management: Organize and ... Research: Track and evaluate team performance through metrics and provide regular feedback and ...

Saturn Petcare Inc

R & D Scientist

Terre Haute, IN · On-site

The R&D scientist will have the opportunity to use knowledge and experience to conduct research in pet wet food. As a part of the R&D team, the R&D scientist will develop strategies to improve ...

kyyba

Food R&D Product Developer II

East Hanover, NJ · On-site

Lead product development projects with cross-functional partners Strong technical foundation and a high level of technical curiosity Demonstrates ability to handle multiple projects, and manage ...

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Food Research information

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How much do food research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for food research in the United States is $24.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Food Research vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood ResearchFood Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Chemistry, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Food Technology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, quality control labs, production lines
Industry UsageFocuses on developing new products, improving formulations, and conducting experimentsFocuses on applying research to production, quality assurance, and process optimization

Food Research and Food Technologists both work within the food industry and share similar educational backgrounds. However, Food Research primarily involves developing new products and conducting experiments in labs, while Food Technologists focus on applying research findings to manufacturing processes and ensuring product quality. Both roles are essential for innovation and quality in the food industry, but they differ in their core activities and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Food Research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Food Research, you need a strong background in food science, chemistry, biology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical testing methods, and food safety regulations, as well as certifications like HACCP, is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for designing experiments and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure accurate research outcomes, innovation, and adherence to safety and quality standards in the food industry.

What does a food researcher do?

A food researcher studies the properties, safety, and quality of food products to develop new items or improve existing ones. They analyze ingredients, conduct experiments, and use laboratory tools to ensure food meets safety standards and consumer preferences. Strong knowledge of food science, chemistry, and research methods is essential for this role.

What is the highest paying job in food science?

In food science, senior roles such as Food Science Directors or R&D Managers typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require advanced education, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they often involve overseeing product development, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

In the field of food research, high-paying roles such as senior food scientists, research directors, or consultants can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, or consulting contracts. These positions often require advanced degrees, industry expertise, and may involve project-based or contract work. Such high daily rates are typically associated with senior-level or freelance roles rather than standard employment.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Food Research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Food Research often encounter challenges such as staying abreast of evolving food safety regulations, balancing innovation with compliance, and addressing consumer demand for healthier or more sustainable products. These challenges can be managed by maintaining ongoing professional development, working closely with cross-functional teams like regulatory affairs and marketing, and adopting robust data collection and analysis practices. Collaborative problem-solving and regular communication with team members are also vital for efficiently navigating the fast-paced and ever-changing landscape of food science.

What is food research?

Food research is the scientific study of food, including its composition, safety, nutrition, processing, and development of new products. Professionals in this field work to improve food quality, safety, and sustainability by analyzing ingredients, developing innovative processing methods, and ensuring products meet regulatory standards. Food researchers may also explore ways to enhance flavor, texture, and shelf life, as well as address public health concerns related to diet and nutrition.

How to get a job in food research?

To get a job in food research, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in food science, nutrition, or a related field, with advanced roles often requiring a master's or Ph.D. Additionally, skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with food safety standards are important. Gaining experience through internships or research projects can improve employment prospects.
More about Food Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Research jobs? Cities with the most Food Research job openings:
What states have the most Food Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Food Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Food Research jobs are:
Food Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,670 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Food Research Engineer

JBT Marel Corporation

Lakeland, FL • On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

You will be part of our DF&H (Diversified Food & Health) division more specifically with our preservation team. This group has 70% of the canning industry through thermal processing.

As our Food Research Engineer, you will be ultimately responsible for providing technical and research assistance in thermal processing of hermetically sealed containers for the purpose of supporting sales, new and existing installations of JBT machinery, and generating revenue by providing thermal process consulting services.

On a given day, you may:

  • Operate and conduct tests on all laboratory equipment including Steritort, still and agitating batch retorts, and can closing machine.
  • Perform laboratory and field study projects. Conduct heat penetration and temperature distribution on all types of food containers (e.g. cans, jars pouch, tray, plastic tubs) and process delivery systems, with an emphasis on those provided by JBT Marel.
  • Design and develop safe and accurate thermal processes of foods in hermetically sealed containers for JBT Marel customers through heat penetration and spore count reduction studies. Evaluate process deviations.
  • Lead customer projects and provide documentation and assistance with FDA filing.
  • Provide accurate and timely technical reports and correspondence
  • Convey information regarding Filling & Preservation sterilization equipment and control systems to customers and other interested parties
  • Communicate well in oral and written form to internal and external customers
  • Conversant in FDA and USDA regulations concerning the thermal processing of foods in hermetically sealed containers

Requirements for the role

  • Background in food engineering or food processing required
  • Bachelors of Science degree or equivalent in Food Science, Microbiology, Food Engineering or Agricultural Engineering from an accredited college or university OR equivalent years of JBT/Food Science Experience
  • Proficient with a PC and MS Office software applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
  • Good oral and written communication skills
  • Experience with thermal processing preferred.
  • Ability to work and communicate effectively in a team environment.
  • Effective organization, problem solving and prioritization skills

Travel & Location

  • 25% domestic and International

COMPENSATION RANGE: $80,000.00-$95,000.00 Compensation is determined on experience and skill. This job description is a general description of essential job functions. It is not intended as an employment contract, nor is it intended to describe all responsibilities someone in this position may perform. All employees of JBT are expected to perform tasks as assigned by supervisory personnel, regardless of job title or routine job responsibilities.

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