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Food Research Development Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

R&D Technician

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$19.23 - $28.85/hr

... good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With ... The R&D Technician supports product development and innovation through hands-on execution in the ...

R&D Technician

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$19.23 - $28.85/hr

... good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With ... The R&D Technician supports product development and innovation through hands-on execution in the ...

R&D Technician

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$19.23 - $28.85/hr

... good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With ... The R&D Technician supports product development and innovation through hands-on execution in the ...

6G Standards Research Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$162K - $315K/yr

Ofinno is a leading research and development lab headquartered in Reston, Virginia, specializing in ... Free Food -- Our kitchen is always fully stocked, including lunch, protein bars, fruit, sodas ...

6G Standards Research Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$162K - $315K/yr

Ofinno is a leading research and development lab headquartered in Reston, Virginia, specializing in ... Free Food -- Our kitchen is always fully stocked, including lunch, protein bars, fruit, sodas ...

The Research and Development Food Scientist is expected to serve as a technical services consultant, developing and supporting the commercialization of new products from the conception stage through ...

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Showing results 1-20

Food Research Development information

See Virginia salary details

$48.1K

$100.9K

$163.6K

How much do food research development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for food research development in Virginia is $100,921.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $115,500.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Food Research Development jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Food Research Development jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Food Research Development jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Food Research Development job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,921 per year, or $48.5 per hour.
Senior Manager, Research & Development, Pet Food - Wet

Senior Manager, Research & Development, Pet Food - Wet

StarKist Co.

Reston, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Support, build and scale a differentiated wet pet food business focused on premium feline nutrition. This role will lead the development of innovative wet pet food products from concept through commercialization while serving as a cross-functional technical expert across formulation, processing, regulatory compliance, ingredient sourcing, packaging, manufacturing, quality and commercialization. Possess deep knowledge of the North American pet food industry and be comfortable operating in a fast-moving entrepreneurial environment where both OEM/private label and branded product development are priorities. Build a nutrition-first wet pet food platform centered around tuna-based formulations, ingredient integrity, manufacturing excellence, and long-term category differentiation.