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Food Research Development Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Specialty Foods Group

R&D Meat Scientist

Owensboro, KY · On-site

R&D Meat ScientistIndiana Packers Corporation (IPC) is a fully integrated retail, foodservice and ... Bachelor 's degree in Meat Science, Food Science, Animal Science, or related discipline; Master ...

Winston Industries LLC

R&D Culinary Specialist

Louisville, KY · On-site

$33K - $45K/yr

Were looking for an R&D Culinary Technologist to own how Winston equipment is tested, validated ... Conduct food and operational testing using the scientific method, ensuring consistency, accuracy ...

Winston Industries LLC

R&D Culinary Specialist

Louisville, KY · On-site

$32K - $43K/yr

We're looking for an R&D Culinary Technologist to own how Winston equipment is tested, validated ... Conduct food and operational testing using the scientific method, ensuring consistency, accuracy ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Erlanger, KY · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

... food. * Research customer preferences and develops a menu which incorporates local foods and ... Participates in the development and implementation of business strategies for the community which ...

Morrison Living

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Erlanger, KY · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

... food. * Research customer preferences and develops a menu which incorporates local foods and ... Participates in the development and implementation of business strategies for the community which ...

Compass Group

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Erlanger, KY · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

... food. * Research customer preferences and develops a menu which incorporates local foods and ... Participates in the development and implementation of business strategies for the community which ...

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All JobsFood Research Development JobsFood Research Development Jobs in Kentucky

Food Research Development information

See Kentucky salary details

$42.1K

$88.4K

$143.3K

How much do food research development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for food research development in Kentucky is $88,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,300.00 and $101,200.00 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 popular job titles related to Food Research Development jobs in Kentucky? For Food Research Development jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Research Development jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Food Research Development jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Food Research Development jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Food Research Development job openings:
Food Research Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Research Development job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,411 per year, or $42.5 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

Teasdale Latin Foods

Louisville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
OVERVIEW:
The Research & Development Manager is responsible for leading the R&D team in developing and enhancing food products. This role involves overseeing the entire product development process, from concept to commercialization, ensuring products meet quality standards, regulatory requirements, and market demands. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food science, product development, and project management.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
  • Drive the product development process from feasibility through testing, scale-up, and commercialization.
  • Serve as the key technical contact for customer engagement and project support.
  • Develop consistent experimental design parameters, testing protocols, shelf life, and sensory evaluation procedures across the business unit.
  • Responsible for establishing gold standard product properties, documenting andcommunicating to both internal and external stakeholders
  • Establish supplier relationships to identify new ingredients, technologies, and trends in the food industry.
  • Ensure all products meet regulatory requirements and company standards.
  • Manage development timelines and resources effectively.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field;
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in food product development, 10 years preferred, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
  • Strong knowledge of food science, ingredient functionality, and food manufacturing processes.
  • Excellent project management skills and ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Proven track record of successful product development and successful product launches.
  • Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and industry standards.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to travel up to 40%

WHAT WE'D LIKE TO SEE:
  • Master's degree preferred

WHY TEASDALE:
At Teasdale Latin Foods, our People Principles are all about Living LATIN.
What is LATIN, and how do I live it? Let us fill you in.
  • L is Learning. It emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and development within Teasdale and promotes a culture of curiosity, exploration, and acquiring new knowledge and skills.
  • A is Accountability. This encourages individuals to take ownership of their actions and responsibilities, promoting a sense of personal and collective accountability ensuring we understand how to achieve our goals.
  • T is Teamwork. It emphasizes the value of diverse perspectives, collective problem-solving, and synergy among team members, enabling us to achieve greater outcomes by leveraging the strengths and expertise of our employees.
  • I is Innovation. This promotes an environment where we are empowered to think outside the box, challenge the status quo, and seek innovative solutions to problems, fostering an atmosphere of adaptability and openness to change.
  • N is Nurturing. It emphasizes the importance of supporting and developing our employees' well-being, growth, and potential, showing that we care and are willing to invest in their long-term success and satisfaction.

We believe in finding the right people for the right roles and helping them to build careers. If this sounds like a place you'd like to be, hit apply!
Still not convinced? What about:
  • Day One - Health, Dental, and Vision Benefits
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Matching Contributions at 60 Days
  • Career Growth Opportunities and Professional Development

If you are passionate about being the right kind of leader, the point person of a fast-paced diverse workforce, and a steward of great tradition, come join the family. We want people who are up for a challenge. Let's live LATIN!

Apply