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Food Research Development Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Role Summary This position oversees research and development activities related to food ingredients, formulations, and product innovations. It involves leading new product development, process ...

New

The Food Scientist II functions as the R&D Lead on New Product Development, and Technical Services Projects. They will lead the completion of complex projects from concept through commercialization ...

R&D Technologist

Van Buren, AR · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Role Summary This position is an entry to mid-level Food Technologist role within the research and development department. The role involves applying scientific principles and food processing ...

New

R&D Technologist

Van Buren, AR · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Food Technologist This position is an entry to mid-level Food Technologist role within the research and development department. The role involves applying scientific principles and food processing ...

New

Understanding of product formulation, food processing and the Research and Development process ... Understanding of regulatory labeling and food safety requirements Supervisory: May supervise a team ...

Understanding of product formulation, food processing and the Research and Development process ... Understanding of regulatory labeling and food safety requirements Supervisory: May supervise a team ...

Understanding of product formulation, food processing and the Research and Development process ... Understanding of regulatory labeling and food safety requirements Supervisory: May supervise a team ...

Related degree with minimum of 8 years relevant Research and Development work experience. No degree ... Requirements for Senior Food Scientist I: Education & Experience: BS MS or PhD in Food Science Meat ...

Related degree with minimum of 8 years relevant Research and Development work experience. No degree ... Requirements for Senior Food Scientist I: Education & Experience: BS MS or PhD in Food Science Meat ...

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Showing results 1-20

Food Research Development information

See Arkansas salary details

$40.1K

$84.2K

$136.4K

How much do food research development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for food research development in Arkansas is $84,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $96,300.00 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 Arkansas?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Food Research Development job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,174 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Director of Research & Development

GDH

Rogers, AR • On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Role Summary
This position oversees research and development activities related to food ingredients, formulations, and product innovations. It involves leading new product development, process optimization, and quality assurance initiatives to enhance product quality, innovation, and efficiency. The role requires a strong foundation in food science, leadership capabilities, and cross-functional collaboration to support the company’s growth and quality standards.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct research on new ingredients and food products, including sauces, marinades, glazes, batters, and breadings.
  • Develop and refine product formulations to improve quality, flavor, texture, nutritional value, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Perform physical, chemical, and sensory analyses on ingredients and finished products.
  • Create product, process, and packaging specifications aligned with quality and safety standards.
  • Study and implement methods to enhance food qualities such as flavor, color, and microbiological safety.
  • Test new product concepts in laboratory settings and develop processing methods in pilot plant environments.
  • Oversee product scale-up, pilot production, and new product commissioning.
  • Set operational process conditions and FSQA (Food Safety & Quality Assurance) parameters for manufacturing.
  • Analyze operational data to refine product and process specifications.
  • Lead raw material qualification processes, including research and approval of new packaging materials and raw ingredients.
  • Manage the R&D laboratory and team to support prototype development and inter-departmental projects.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.
  • Proven experience in food product development, formulation, and process optimization.
  • Strong knowledge of food processing, packaging, and quality assurance principles.
  • Leadership experience managing research and development teams or laboratory staff.
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to interpret laboratory and operational data to inform decision-making.
  • Familiarity with scale-up processes from lab to production.
  • Professionalism, strong business acumen, and the ability to work under pressure.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Publishing Pay Range: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00 annually
This position is based in office and requires employee to work on-site.