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Food Research Development Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Kalsec, Inc.

Senior Scientist - Color Innovation

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$86K - $118K/yr

Experience in food R&D with demonstrated work in product development, ingredient functionality, or new product development * Strong knowledge of food chemistry and ingredient interactions * Hands-on ...

Specialty Foods Group

R&D Meat Scientist

Holland, MI · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Meat Science, Food Science, Animal Science, or related discipline; Master's or PhD preferred * Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on experience in meat / food product development

Koppert

R&D Scientist I

Howell, MI · On-site

... food safety demands while contributing to the better health of people and the planet. Your Role The ... R&D Scientist merges analytics and systematic investigation with specialized knowledge of the ...

Koppert Biological Systems

R&D Scientist I

Howell, MI · On-site

... food safety demands while contributing to the better health of people and the planet. Your Role The ... R&D Scientist merges analytics and systematic investigation with specialized knowledge of the ...

Koppert Biological Systems

R&D Scientist I

Howell, MI

... food safety demands while contributing to the better health of people and the planet. Your Role The ... R&D Scientist merges analytics and systematic investigation with specialized knowledge of the ...

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Food Research Development information

See Michigan salary details

$42.3K

$88.7K

$143.8K

How much do food research development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for food research development in Michigan is $88,723.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities of someone working in 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 the Food Research Development position, 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 job?

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 Michigan? The most popular types of Food Research Development jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Food Research Development jobs in Michigan? For Food Research Development jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Research Development jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Food Research Development jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Food Research Development jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Food Research Development job openings:
Food Research Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Research Development job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,723 per year, or $42.7 per hour.
Research & Development Operations Manager

Research & Development Operations Manager

Nestle Operational Services Worldwide SA

Fremont, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Nestlé's Research & Development Center is our regional powerhouse driving innovation in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical science. Backed by our global Nestlé R&D organization, we lead breakthrough discoveries that are both good for consumers and the planet. Our team of experts range from product developers to engineers, working across our portfolio of food, beverage, infant nutrition, and health science to create leading-edge products and services. As part of our organization, you will use your entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence to unlock the power of food and provide premium value.
This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
JOB SUMMARY: The Pilot Plant Manager provides leadership and strategic direction related to NDC Fremont's Pilot Plant, site (culinary center, labs) operations, maintenance, and the NMS program (in partnership with the Sr. Manager of Quality and Food Safety). Manage day-to-day requirements of the pilot plant operations to ensure flawless execution of trials for strategic R&D initiatives for the Global Meals and drinks baby food category.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Operational management and planning to execute Pilot Plant trials in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Coordinate all aspects of Maintenance and Improvement of Pilot plant equipment and local IT infrastructure.
  • Ensure compliance of Pilot Plant facilities and infrastructure in terms of Quality & Food Safety, SH&E, Nestlé Policy, Guidelines and Regulations
  • Ensure material and finished product availability from procurement and final disposition.
  • Lead and coach team to deliver on performance objectives, define personal and professional development plans / career development
  • Support innovation efforts and transfer knowledge of new technologies to support industrialization and Factory Start-up.
  • Facilitates small to medium-scale projects in the pilot plant.
  • Management of operating expenses and continuous improvement of the operations (efficiency, effectiveness, and capacity).
  • Partner with Quality Management lead and provide leadership of NMS program to sustain compliance and improve efficiency and effectiveness.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelors degree in Engineering, Technology, or equivalent experience
  • Minimum 7 years related work experience.
  • Experience in managing people in a technical or operational function
  • Experience leading or contributing to the preparation of CapEx project submissions and basic project management experience would be an added benefit.
  • Basic knowledge of ISO 22000 / NQMS / HACCP / Food Safety / NGMP / EFCA
  • Ability to lead, coach and develop people.
  • Strong team player, excellent communication/relational and stakeholder management skills
  • Experience with Digital and AI tools in manufacturing preferred.

It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.
To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you'll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestlé home.
The Nestlé Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at accommodations@nestle.com or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: 1-800-321-6467.
This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
Review our applicant privacy notice before applying at https://www.nestlejobs.com/privacy.
#LI-TG1
Nestlé's Research & Development Center is our regional powerhouse driving innovation in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical science. Backed by our global Nestlé R&D organization, we lead breakthrough discoveries that are both good for consumers and the planet. Our team of experts range from product developers to engineers, working across our portfolio of food, beverage, infant nutrition, and health science to create leading-edge products and services. As part of our organization, you will use your entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence to unlock the power of food and provide premium value.
This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
JOB SUMMARY: The Pilot Plant Manager provides leadership and strategic direction related to NDC Fremont's Pilot Plant, site (culinary center, labs) operations, maintenance, and the NMS program (in partnership with the Sr. Manager of Quality and Food Safety). Manage day-to-day requirements of the pilot plant operations to ensure flawless execution of trials for strategic R&D initiatives for the Global Meals and drinks baby food category.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Operational management and planning to execute Pilot Plant trials in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Coordinate all aspects of Maintenance and Improvement of Pilot plant equipment and local IT infrastructure.
  • Ensure compliance of Pilot Plant facilities and infrastructure in terms of Quality & Food Safety, SH&E, Nestlé Policy, Guidelines and Regulations
  • Ensure material and finished product availability from procurement and final disposition.
  • Lead and coach team to deliver on performance objectives, define personal and professional development plans / career development
  • Support innovation efforts and transfer knowledge of new technologies to support industrialization and Factory Start-up.
  • Facilitates small to medium-scale projects in the pilot plant.
  • Management of operating expenses and continuous improvement of the operations (efficiency, effectiveness, and capacity).
  • Partner with Quality Management lead and provide leadership of NMS program to sustain compliance and improve efficiency and effectiveness.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelors degree in Engineering, Technology, or equivalent experience
  • Minimum 7 years related work experience.
  • Experience in managing people in a technical or operational function
  • Experience leading or contributing to the preparation of CapEx project submissions and basic project management experience would be an added benefit.
  • Basic knowledge of ISO 22000 / NQMS / HACCP / Food Safety / NGMP / EFCA
  • Ability to lead, coach and develop people.
  • Strong team player, excellent communication/relational and stakeholder management skills
  • Experience with Digital and AI tools in manufacturing preferred.

It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.
To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you'll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestlé home.
The Nestlé Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at accommodations@nestle.com or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: 1-800-321-6467.
This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
Review our applicant privacy notice before applying at https://www.nestlejobs.com/privacy.
#LI-TG1

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