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Food Research Development Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

... R&D, and supply chain teams. What You'll Do Key Responsibilities * Serve as the frontline ... Support, implement, and maintain food safety programs, food safety culture initiatives, and quality ...

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Food Research Development information

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$44K

$92.3K

$149.6K

How much do food research development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for food research development in Alabama is $92,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,200.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food research development?

A Food Research Development job focuses on creating, improving, and testing food products to enhance quality, taste, safety, and shelf life. Professionals in this field work with ingredients, formulations, and processing techniques to develop new recipes or refine existing ones. They collaborate with food scientists, nutritionists, and production teams to ensure products meet consumer expectations and regulatory standards. Additionally, they may research market trends and evaluate new technologies to drive innovation in the food industry.

What are the typical responsibilities of a food research development?

Professionals in Food Research Development are responsible for creating and testing new food products, improving existing formulas, and ensuring quality and safety standards are met throughout the development process. Daily tasks often include conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing sensory and nutritional data, documenting findings, and collaborating with cross-functional teams such as marketing, quality assurance, and production. You'll also participate in pilot plant trials and may engage directly with suppliers or regulatory agencies. This role is highly collaborative and requires both independent research and teamwork to bring innovative food products to market.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in food research development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Food Research Development, a strong background in food science, chemistry, or related fields—often supported by a relevant degree—is essential. Experience with laboratory research tools, food safety standards, analytical software, and potentially HACCP certification is highly valued. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set exceptional candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing innovative, safe, and market-ready food products in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Research Development jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Food Research Development jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Food Research Development jobs in Alabama?

For Food Research Development jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Research Development jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Research Development jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Food Research Development jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Food Research Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Research Development job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,265 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Research and Development Technician

Birmingham, AL

Red Diamond, Inc.
201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist in developing new products and flavors, and improve existing products through product development projects.

  • Prepare laboratory samples, maintain detailed records, and support sample request processes.

  • Support manufacturing process improvements, conduct shelf-life testing, and use sensory techniques for product evaluation.


Job description

At Red Diamond, we are driven by an obsession to provide a world-class coffee and tea experience. Since 1906, the cornerstone of our company has been our commitment to unparalleled quality, innovation and customer service. The company’s culture centers on quality, authenticity, and taking extra care from field to final sip, with no shortcuts or compromises.  We offer competitive compensation and benefits.  Join our legacy and become a part of the Red Diamond team!

Summary: The Research & Development Technician will assist in innovation efforts across the company to develop new products/flavors and enhance existing ones to meet company objectives.  The R&D Technician supports the R&D team by preparing product formulations, producing laboratory and customer samples, maintaining the R&D laboratory, and assisting with new product development initiatives where needed.  This role is responsible for maintaining accurate documentation and coordinating sample preparation, and shipments.  May interact with customers and external R&D teams and must be able to clearly present and articulate product ideas.  In-office position based in Moody, AL.

Essential job functions:

  1. Prepare laboratory customer samples by accurately following approved formulations and written procedures.  Maintain detailed records of sample preparation and laboratory activities.
  2. Assist with product development projects from development through production, as well as product improvements according to business needs.
  3. Assist with multiple R&D projects simultaneously, ensuring accurate and timely completion of requests and projects.  Identify and test new products, flavors, processes, ingredients, and technologies.
  4. Support manufacturing plant operations in process improvements and problem troubleshooting.
  5. Manage the sample request process.  Develop and produce sample products for review.
  6. Maintain documentation, clear and concise lab notebooks, and provide reports. Support specification development.
  7. Manage shelf-life testing for new or existing products.
  8. Prepare samples by roasting coffee in our sample roaster for customers or internal use.
  9. Use sensory techniques to match competitive products.
  10. Apply technical knowledge and establish credibility with highly technical audiences.

    Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

    1. Knowledge of lab testing skills, methods, and equipment.
    2. Basic understanding of flavors and functionality of flavors.
    3. Basic understanding of ingredients and functionality of those ingredients in a finished product.
    4. Basic nutritional knowledge and understanding of labeling etc. of food products.
    5. Basic formulation skills.
    6. Basic project management skills. 
    7. Detail oriented and quick learner.
    8. Ability to work cross functionally.
    9. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
    10. Excellent math skills.
    11. Proficient skill with personal computer and job-related software including Microsoft Office products.
    12. Ability to successfully handle multiple tasks at one time and meet deadlines.
    13. Ability to distinguish colors, aromas, and flavors for product evaluations.
    14. Ability to work independently and with a team.
    15. Knowledge and understanding of basic Food Safety and FDA and regulatory requirements.

     Education and Experience Required: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Culinary Science, Chemistry, Biology or related field and 1-3 years’ experience in R&D/Product Development, with beverage and coffee/tea experience preferred.