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Food Research Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lab37

Research & Development

Los Angeles, CA

Culinary R&D Associate, Robotic Kitchen Product Lab37 Robotics, is a technology company focused on ... Our mission is to revolutionize the food industry by creating innovative robotic solutions that ...

Lab37

Research & Development

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Culinary R&D Associate, Robotic Kitchen Product Lab37 Robotics, is a technology company focused on ... Our mission is to revolutionize the food industry by creating innovative robotic solutions that ...

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA

$135K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field * 4-8+ years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the ...

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field * 4-8+ years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

At Kinder's, we're passionate about creating food that brings people together. The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

At Kinder's, we're passionate about creating food that brings people together. The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At Kinder's, we're passionate about creating food that brings people together. The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved ...

Lab37

Research & Development Chef

Los Angeles, CA

$75K - $110K/yr

Our mission is to revolutionize the food industry by creating innovative robotic solutions that ... This isn't just an R&D role -- you're helping define the culinary roadmap for a business with ...

mybakemark

02701A - Manager, R&D

Fresno, CA · On-site

The Manager, Research & Development (R&D) is responsible for leading product innovation ... Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, labeling standards, and industry guidelines.

mybakemark

02701A - Manager, R&D

Fresno, CA · On-site

The Manager, Research & Development (R&D) is responsible for leading product innovation ... Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, labeling standards, and industry guidelines.

Hyf

Co-op - Research & Development

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Record, compile and analyze experimental data and present findings to the R&D team. * Assist with ... Hyfé transforms food waste into high-value ingredients using a label-friendly, thermochemical ...

Del Taco

R&D Chef

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$89K - $110K/yr

Research and Development REPORTS TO: Director of Culinary Research & Development LOCATION: Lake ... Practical operational capabilities must include: food costing and related financial skills ...

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All JobsFood Research Development JobsFood Research Development Jobs in California

Food Research Development information

See California salary details

$47.9K

$100.5K

$162.8K

How much do food research development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for food research development in California is $100,461.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Food Research Development jobs in California?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food Research Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Research Development job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,461 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Research & Development

Lab37

Los Angeles, CA

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Culinary R&D Associate, Robotic Kitchen Product

Lab37 Robotics, is a technology company focused on the development and deployment of robots designed specifically for direct-to-customer food production. Our mission is to revolutionize the food industry by creating innovative robotic solutions that enhance efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction. We are passionate about pushing the boundaries of technology to deliver cutting-edge products that meet the evolving needs of our clients.


Role Overview

You are the hands-on engine supporting our culinary R&D team. In this role, you will work directly under our senior chefs to help bring new brands and menu concepts to life. You will assist in translating brand briefs into tangible food components through rigorous recipe testing and operational support. This is a unique opportunity to learn the culinary roadmap of a digital-first dining business and gain experience in how recipes are developed, and scaled for robotic food production. You’ll be a vital part of the pipeline from initial testing to launch execution.

Responsibilities
  • Assist in the execution of the culinary roadmap by prepping for and supporting new brand and LTO development trials
  • Support the R&D pipeline through daily preparation of ingredients and components for testing
  • Execute recipe tests under the direction of R&D chefs, ensuring precise adherence to trial parameters
  • Maintain a rigorously organized kitchen and R&D workspace to ensure efficient testing cycles
  • Assist in collecting and documenting data during production-scale validation, including yield and weight measurements
  • Update prep task libraries and order guides as directed by the culinary team
  • Conduct ingredient quality checks and assist in receiving supplier deliveries for the R&D lab
  • Maintain the physical component library, ensuring all samples are properly labeled and stored
  • Upkeep elite standards for sanitation, organization, and food safety (HACCP) within the R&D kitchen
  • Partner with the broader team to support kitchen training and launch execution for new menu items
Qualifications
  • Strong culinary foundation (culinary school or 1-2 years of high-volume kitchen experience preferred)
  • Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to precision in following recipes and instructions
  • Extreme eagerness to learn R&D processes and the intersection of food and technology
  • Reliable and highly organized; you thrive in a fast-paced environment and keep your station immaculate
  • Passion for food innovation and a desire to contribute to a forward-thinking culinary team
  • Basic understanding of kitchen math, weight measurements (grams), and data recording
  • Strong communication skills and a team-first attitude
Additional Information

Our work environment is fast-paced and dynamic, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and fulfilling work. We believe that a stimulating and enjoyable workplace is key to driving innovation and achieving excellence. At Lab37 Robotics, every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of food production, and we are committed to supporting our employees’ growth and success.

Join us at Lab37 Robotics and be a part of a forward-thinking company that’s transforming the way the world approaches food production.

Apply