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Food Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Food Technologist

Whittier, CA

$30 - $35/hr

Support food research and development (R&D) activities, including product formulation, new product development, and commercialization of lab formulas. * Collaborate with cross-functional partners ...

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 ...

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How much do food research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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 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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% 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 & Development Specialist

Tay Ho

Houston, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Food Research & Development Specialist to support product innovation, formulation, and continuous improvement within our food manufacturing operation. This role bridges creativity and execution, working closely with Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain to develop, test, scale, and commercialize food products that meet quality, safety, cost, and regulatory standards.

You will play a hands-on role in benchtop development, pilot trials, and production scale-up, ensuring concepts move efficiently from idea to shelf.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop and refine food formulations for new products, line extensions, and reformulations.
  • Conduct bench-top, pilot, and plant trials, documenting procedures, observations, and results.
  • Partner with Operations and Engineering to support scale-up and commercialization of R&D concepts.
  • Work closely with Quality and Regulatory teams to ensure products meet FDA, USDA, GMP, HACCP, and labeling requirements.
  • Perform ingredient evaluations, shelf-life studies, sensory testing, and cost optimization analyses.
  • Maintain accurate formulation records, specifications, SOPs, and trial documentation.
  • Support supplier collaboration, ingredient sourcing, and evaluation of alternative raw materials.
  • Troubleshoot product and process issues related to texture, flavor, stability, yield, or shelf life.
  • Assist in maintaining R&D lab organization, safety standards, and sanitation protocols.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across product quality and manufacturing efficiency.

Qualifications:

Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Nutrition, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in food R&D, product development, or food manufacturing.
  • Hands-on experience with formulation, testing, and basic lab equipment.
  • Strong documentation and organizational skills.
Preferred
  • Experience supporting pilot plant or commercial-scale production.
  • Familiarity with thermal processing, emulsions, sauces, beverages, or dry blends (adjust based on product type).
  • Knowledge of nutritional labeling, regulatory compliance, and ingredient statements.
  • Working knowledge of food safety systems (GMP, HACCP, SSOPs, and SOPs)
  • Experience with sensory panels and shelf-life testing.
  • Proficiency with formulation software or Excel-based costing models.
Ideal Candidate Will Be:
  • Curious, methodical, and detail-oriented.
  • Comfortable balancing creativity with operational constraints.
  • Strong cross-functional communication skills.
  • Able to manage multiple projects and timelines simultaneously.
  • Solutions-focused with a continuous improvement mindset.
Why Join Craftory?

Craftory is reimagining how heritage-rich flavors are shared with the next generation. We produce ready-to-eat broths, soups, and proteins in shelf-stable Tetra Recart packaging. With product lines like Simmer Craft organic broths and Craft Cuts luncheon meats, we serve consumers seeking comfort foods.

Well established food manufacturing in Southern Cali. We specialize in Vietnamese meatball, sausage to retail and food service. We have been in the industry for over 38 years.

Education:{"credentialcategory":"bachelor degree","@type":"EducationalOccupationalCredential"}Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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